Juggling the responsibilities of motherhood and entrepreneurship can be a daunting task, but for Jen Azzarelli, one-half of the co-founding duo behind Camp – a fitness and yoga destination in Tampa and Santa Monica – it has become an inspiring journey.
With determination and a strong support system, Azzarelli has successfully managed to navigate the challenges of running a bi-coastal business while being a dedicated mom. From launching Camp in Tampa in 2016, bringing the brand to L.A. in 2021, to now doubling the footprint of the Santa Monica location, her story serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the art of embracing the chaos.
Building Camp and Bringing the Brand to the West Coast
Jen Azzarelli’s entrepreneurial journey began when she co-founded Camp Tampa in 2016, which is now a thriving community-driven organization that offers cycle, yoga, circuit, sculpt, and stations classes. As a busy mother who enjoyed an active lifestyle, Azzarelli recognized the need for a fun place to do all her favorite group fitness and yoga classes, at the highest quality, under one roof. She and her business partner, co-founder Jamie Lanza, wanted to build a place for adults to reconnect with themselves and their communities. Having spent many years herself in the four walls of her favorite workout studios, she combined her passion for fitness, her hospitality background, and her entrepreneurial spirit to bring Camp to life.
A Balancing Act
Being an entrepreneur often demands long hours, dedication, and constant decision-making, but Azzarelli has managed to strike a balance between her professional and personal life. By prioritizing her time effectively, she ensures that she is present for both her business and her family. Whether it’s attending meetings or spending quality time with her children, Azzarelli understands the importance of being fully present in each role she plays.
“I believe that the key to balancing the roles of being a mom and an entrepreneur lies in doing everything with intention. It’s about always trying to show up in the best way possible, and when you can’t, being open and honest about where you’re at,” said Azzerelli. “As a mom, I bring a unique perspective to our business, and as an entrepreneur, I strive to create a better world for my children. It’s a delicate dance, but one that has been incredibly fulfilling.”
Support System and Delegation
One of the key factors contributing to Azzarelli’s success in balancing her roles as a mother and an entrepreneur is her strong support system. She acknowledges the importance of relying on her partner both at work and at home, family, and trusted team members at Camp. Delegation has become an essential skill for her, allowing her to entrust tasks and responsibilities to capable individuals while focusing on the bigger picture.
Finding Moments of Self-Care
Amidst the hustle and bustle of entrepreneurship and motherhood, Azzarelli emphasizes the significance of self-care. She recognizes that taking care of herself allows her to show up as the best version of herself for both her family and her business. From physical activity to practicing mindfulness and setting aside personal time, Azzarelli understands the importance of nurturing her own well-being.
Jen Azzarelli, brand president and co-founder of Camp, has demonstrated that balancing the roles of mom and entrepreneur is possible with resolve, effective time management, and a strong support system. Her ability to find harmony in the chaos inspires aspiring entrepreneurs and parents alike. Azzarelli’s journey highlights the importance of moving with intention, delegation, and self-care as essential components of successfully navigating the complex world of motherhood and entrepreneurship.