Summary
Hi friends,
This campaign is to support and grow our Bastrop community and build an aerial studio that encourages good health, positive body image, and fitness!
What are aerials? They are the broad and wonderful world of lyra (hoop), pole, silks, trapeze, and much much more. Aerials are open to EVERYONE! There are zero background requirements needed to join the fun.
As Bastrop grows, my passion as a long-time student has morphed to bring this industry from Austin eastward. I am in the homestretch of bringing an existing centrally located space up to code and filling it with apparatus so we can open!
By supporting this campaign, you will be contributing to the success of a local business owned by a woman, a mom, a friend, and fellow community member. My vision is to serve Bastrop, where we can all work, live, and play.
How Your Investment Directly Helps
Over the last year and a half, I have been searching all over Bastrop for a suitable space. During that time, we have also dealt with impacts from Covid and tremendous inflation. I finally found the spot! We will be located at 201 Hunters Crossing Blvd, Suite 14, Bastrop TX 78602.
Here are a few things that your contribution will go toward. I can't wait to partner with you!
Your Donation Will Impact Two (2) Main Areas:
1. Space Finish: Aerial studios require tall ceilings, so I had to look high and wide for a space that had high ceilings with no HVAC obstruction, and with a way to rig (attach) apparatus safely. I found an unfinished shell space that we can make our own! But I have to front all the costs for expenses, which include Permits and Drawings, HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Concrete, Flooring, Sheetrock, Paint, and an additional I-Beam. In these unique times, you can imagine that just finding a contractor has not been easy. I was overpriced. I was ghosted. And finally, I found a partner.
Build-out Costs: $125,000
2. The Fun Stuff: After the build-out, I'll install all the goodies! This includes Gym Carpet Floor, Rigging (Clamps, Pulleys, Ropes), Landing Mats, Silk Fabrics, Lyras (hoops), Trapeze, Poles, Cube, and other circus apparatus. I'll also have a Registration Desk/Computer and a Lounge Area.
Inventory Costs: $40,000
Meet The Owner Stacey
Gravity District will be owned and managed by me, Stacey Braden. I have practiced pole and lyra for about 8 years. I've won the Capital of Texas Aerial Competition (Masters) 2 times. My husband and I have 4 daughters between the two of us, but we are empty nesters. Whew! When I'm not working at my daytime desk job as a Project Manager, you'll find me in the dance or yoga studio, riding motorcycles on a closed track or in the woods, or relaxing with our farm animals (2 dogs, a cat, 2 ducks, and 6 chickens). I also have a Master's in Health Administration from Mary Hardin-Baylor.
That said, the studio will be a team effort. I'll teach classes but not without help from some amazing instructors who have also already committed to bring the very best instruction to Bastrop!
Slated Timeline
We are getting so close! Below is my plan and targeted milestones.
- February 22: Indiegogo campaign launch
- March 1: Lease is official!
- March 31: Permits approved
- April 1: Build-out begins
- May 1: Inventory ordering begins
- June 1: Rigging and Equipment move-in and setup (exciting!)
- July 1: Private open house for VIP Backers
- July 2 - 4: Soft opening weekend
- July 11: Official opening!
- August 31: Ensure all Campaign Awards are complete!
Other Ways You Can Help
Helping can manifest in a variety of ways. Let's be honest, dollars help! But there's more you can do if funding is not possible. Can you share our campaign with...
- Local social media
- YOUR social media
- Friends & family
- Business networks & co-workers
