Denise Walsh went to college for dance and always dreamed of
opening her own studio. As a new graduate in the early 80s, she wasn’t sure
where to start.
That’s where SCORE came in. Her volunteer mentor connected
her with an attorney and helped her develop a business plan.
Soon after, she incorporated her then-business, Aerobics To
You, an at-home workout routine that she provided in clients’ homes or other
locations. Every six weeks, Walsh devised a new workout regimen.
“It was time consuming and a creative burden,” she recalled.
“I was not making a lot of money. I was ready to go into the workforce and not
be a businessperson anymore.”
As luck would have it, the owner of a dance studio
approached her about taking over the business. She worked in the studio for a
year before buying it and running it for 12 years.
In the years since, Walsh has bought and sold a few other
business entities.
The newly retired Walsh, 62, of Montgomery County, is now
looking to impart her business insight on other entrepreneurs and small
business owners. Over the summer, she began training to become a SCORE Bucks
County certified mentor. Her area of expertise, given her background, is on
buying and selling a business.
She is enjoying being on the other side of business ownership
and helping clients, who, like her, need guidance on various levels of starting
or running a business.
“They helped me all these years ago and maybe this is how I
can help,” Walsh said. “It really is full circle.”
Walsh has been learning much along the way as she co-mentors
with the chapter’s Chairwoman, Linda Zangrilli, as well as fellow mentor, Nina
De Rosa. Zangrilli said she is excited to have Walsh be part of the chapter.
“Many of our clients are seeking
advice on buying and selling a business,” Zangrilli said. “Denise brings a
wealth of experience in that area. She knows how and when to buy and sell as
well as how to avoid the pitfalls.”
In addition to helping fellow
entrepreneurs, Walsh said she enjoys making vital connections with clients.
“I really don’t want to be retired. This will help me stay
busy and decide what I want to do in my next chapter,” Walsh said. “I don’t
know what my next gig will be but I’m sure it will be something along the lines
of helping people.”
About SCORE
Since 1964, SCORE has helped more
than 11 million aspiring entrepreneurs. Each year, SCORE
provides small business mentoring and workshops to more than 375,000
new and growing small businesses.?With 50 members across the
county, SCORE Bucks?County?provides over 1,500 free
mentoring services annually to local small business owners
through one-on-one counseling and small business seminars. To stay up to
date on news and happenings, join SCORE Bucks County’s email list. Text
SCOREBUCKS to 22828.
