Meet Chanelle Wilson | Business Owner, Barre Instructor and Full-Time Mother

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

Hi Chanelle, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind the success of my brand isn’t any secret sauce or fancy techniques but rather showing up being my genuine self. I believe authenticity is magical! Showing up as my authentic self and allowing my audience to see who I truly am, is a representation of my brand. I was slightly nervous when it came time to introduce myself as the face behind Confetti & Kindness. That self doubt talk crept in (just for a second)and I was worried if I wasn’t someone’s cup of tea. I had to drop that self chatter real quick, as that didn’t represent any part of my brand. I had to show up as me and knowing if I wasn’t someone’s cup tea, that was just fine. I’m surly someone’s cup of whiskey and that was my target audience. I personally believe as a small business owner that people connect with you and your brand first and then what you are selling. People have access to shop products online from pretty much anywhere. I’ve always believed that people have to buy into you before they buy into what you are selling. Consistency has also been a key factor into the success of my company. Consistency has allowed me to build a brand that is shown to be trustworthy. Doing all the little things on a daily basis, even when you don’t feel seen or heard, is critical.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I was born and raised in a small town in Williamsport, Pa. I moved to the Philadelphia area after college and have a background in the medical field. A few months after I had my daughter, my husband and I relocated to Dallas, Tx. I decided then to become a full time stay at home mother. With that blessing, I was able to focus on what I really connected with most and discover my passion, which ended up being fitness.

As a new mom, I started attending barre classes at the local YMCA and Barre studios nearby. What started off as just a form of self care, grew into a full on passion for me. I loved it so much, I decided to become a fitness instructor. My daughter was 4 at the time and I decided to go for it and get certified to teach group fitness. The career change was much different than anything I’ve done before. I had no experience in fitness besides attending classes. I landed a barre instructor position right after getting certified and jumped right in. I was totally nervous and terrified of this new transition. but determined to be the best, like all things I go for. It’s been a little over three years now and I have to say, one of the best choices I’ve made. It’s such a rewarding career.

The most important thing I’ve learned from an older mentor instructor, is to just be me. I’ve been able to get comfortable with that and people connect to the energy I bring to class. For many of the students I teach, that hour for the day is their only form of self care and place to disconnect. It much more than just moving our bodies. I thrive off being able to motivate and encourage so many people to connect their mind, body and soul. I believe movement is medicine. I use each opportunity in class to encourage self love, empowerment and promote body positivity. I recall how important that was for me as I battled the rough sides of motherhood most don’t speak publicly about and it sticks with me each time I start my class.

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.
My favorite place for date night or girls night is a visit to Bishop Arts District. Paradiso is one of my favorites to visit. The food is delsih and so many stores to stroll and shop in that area. The seared scallops are crave worthy! There is a bar directly next to it, called The Botanist and they have an unbelievable cocktail list. The Botanist gives me London vibes. Afterwards, we can grab the best pie in town at Emporium Pies. You have to try the Nannerz and Drop Dead Gorgeous. Can’t go wrong with pies.

A hidden gem for drinks is a bar called Vinyl Lounge located in Denton. You can bring your old records and enjoy some groovy jams. I especially love their cocktail menu, my favorite is the Bootsy Collins. If disco and retro are your thing, you will love it. Since The Vinyl Lounge is off the Denton Square, I can’t skip dinner at 940’s. They have a amazing happy hour menu and the smoked gouda mac n cheese is my favorite.

I love to hang in Deep Ellum. You will bump into the coolest people. They have so many pretty murals to snap pictures with. Jade and Clover and Fleastyle are my favorite stores to shop when in the area. I often hit up Ebb & Flow for bites and drinks after shopping the area.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Where do I begin with this loaded question. I’ve been incredibly blessed to be around inspiring women who also believe community of competition. A few years ago, I attended a Rachel Hollis women’s Rise conference. Being in a room with nearly 7k other women, from all walks of life, different backgrounds, and religions, sparked something in me. It showed me no matter how hard life was, or where we came from, or our struggles, that their are other women even from afar cheering other women on. Since that experience I’ve sought hard to stay in community with similar women. I can’t describe how that moment truly felt beside it being monumental. I didn’t grow up seeing that sort of support as a child among other women. Fast forward to the more recent years, I can say that I see the exact opposite now. Since moving to Dallas, I attended many events and made connections along the way. Through those connections I’ve made some super supportive friends who are genuinely happy about my success. Not only are they happy for my success but contributors as well.

A huge shoutout to my cousin (who’s my accountability partner) Nastasha and my stepmother, Mattie. They’re hands down my biggest supporters and are a driving force behind the woman I am today. When I’m captain of the struggle bus for to longer than necessary, they speak positivity and words of encouragement into my soul. They’ve poured so much love into me, and are beyond supportive, I’m forever thankful for them. They remind me of my greatness on those days I’ve forgotten.

I also, made so many meaningful connections during the pandemic from women on instagram. That platform has allowed me to connect with so many others like myself, building their brand and businesses. Having those virtual friendships and connections has helped me stay consistent with my business and personal goals. Those gals keep me inspired through seeing their hardwork and growth.

Website: https://confettiandkindness.com/

Instagram: @Confettiandkindnessco

Facebook: Confettiandkindness