We had the good fortune of connecting with Britney Franklin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Britney, other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?
Staying true to myself and believing in my brand. I knew when I started my business that I wanted to become my brand. I wanted to use my passion and my ethics as the baseline for Awaken. It’s hard, sometimes, to not lose yourself in the business/financial side of things but staying in the light was something I decided long ago. Keeping my love for healing as the business model is what I’m most proud of.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career is what I cherish the most. I’ve worked so hard to get to this position and I am very excited to continue growing, not only at Awaken, but also in my personal life. Right now, I am taking an Herbalism Course so I will soon be able to offer guidance and herbs to my clients looking to heal from within and a holistic approach to their health!

I wouldn’t say it was always easy. Working as a massage therapist hasn’t always been financially sound. There were a lot of side gigs and a lot of long nights and early mornings. Looking back now, I would say it was all worth it.

What I want people to know most is this..

Awaken is a safe space. It is, at it’s core, a place for healing. Since healing comes in all shapes and forms, every session is as unique as the person who is on my table. I take pride in getting to know my clients and knowing their successes and their struggles. My clients are the reason my dreams continue to come true and my way of saying thank you is providing a safe space for them to be exactly what the need to be in that moment.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is such a fun question!

Charleston is such a beautiful place so I would make sure outside spots were a must!
Hampton Park, Riverfront Park, Pitt Street Bridge, Sullivans Island, Cypress Gardens, I could go on and on.

Eating and Drinking is what we do best!
Verns, Kultura, Kwei Fei, Jackrabbit Filly, El Kiosko (Food Truck), Moes Crosstown, Chubby Fish, Graft, Dellz, Mozzo, Rubys!

Looking up shows at the Music Hall, Music Farm, The Gaillard, LoFi Brewery is always a good idea!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people! My Light Sister, Maureen Donohue (owner of Joti Reiki) is someone I admire so dearly and also someone who has believed in me for so many years. She has helped me open up on deeper levels which in turn has allowed me to become stronger in my practice.

My friends and family for always supporting me and Awaken. They book appointments, listen to my struggles and support my small business any way they can. I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in without them.

My partner, Aaron, deserves a huge shoutout. He is my biggest cheerleader and he pushes me to be better everyday. He is also the brain behind my branding/logo. He helped my vision come to life!

The ladies at Blue Heron Acupuncture! They allow me to share their sacred space and let Awaken shine! They are so incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about healing, it is an honor to work alongside them.

Website: www.awaken-charleston.com

Instagram: @awakencharleston

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