As a certified Yoga, Pilates & Lagree instructor, Colleen noticed a serious lack of well designed performance socks for her clients and fellow instructors. Colleen stepped in and utilized her background in manufacturing to make a product that everyone will love. Think the perfect fit and adorable designs to let your own personality shine. All while having a full time job and being a Mom to two adorable children. Find out Colleen’s one piece of advice for other Mom Entrepreneurs, how she prioritizes fitness into her daily routine and her favorite date night spot in South Orange County.
What made you decide to launch Ro & Arrows?
I am very passionate about creating products for athletes. I saw my Pilate’s clients struggling to put on their Toe Sox. They wanted a sock that was easier to get on and more comfortable to wear. After watching this day after day, I decided to create a better product. Busy moms, bad ass career women, and studio athlete enthusiast, deserve to have a Pilates & Barre sock that is effortless to slip on, and still provides function and fashion.
Do you have a background in manufacturing or fitness?
Yes! I have fourteen years of experience in manufacturing and 10 years of experience in fitness. Ro & Arrows was the ultimate dream of combining these together. I have created products for brands such as Nike, Hurley, Vans, Oakley, The North Face and more. Having the opportunity to create a product for my clients in the fitness industry has been rewarding. When I decided to get certified as a Yoga instructor, it was because I wanted to give back. Ten years later, I am now certified in Yoga, Pilates & Lagree. The fitness and wellness community have given me so much, creating something for them has been a dream come true.
Can you give other Mom Entrepreneurs looking to launch their own business one piece of advice?
Success doesn’t happen overnight. DO NOT GIVE UP!
What is your favorite workout right now? Barre, yoga or Pilates and why?
I honestly can’t choose one! I like to switch it up throughout the week. This keeps my mind fresh and connected to my work outs; I never get bored. Each of these workouts have their own benefits. Yoga helps me stay spiritually connected, Pilates helps strengthen and support my core and spine, and barre provides discipline and strength. They are all beautiful in their own way.
Moms often forget to make time for themselves for fitness, how do you prioritize fitness in your day-to-day life?
This is the biggest challenge as a mom. Fitness for me is a matter of physical and mental health. I have to schedule fitness in-between meetings, a full-time job, running my business and momming. I do what I can when I can. I wake up early, use my lunchtime, do family walks and organize community yoga. I try and incorporate fitness into my personal and professional life as much as possible. It is always a struggle to put yourself first as a mom, but I try and set a good example for my kids.
Why did you decide to raise your family in South Orange County?
I grew up in South Orange County. I have watched it grow from undeveloped hills to what it is today. Orange County has always been a special place for me, with its beautiful beaches and rolling hills. It’s where my husband and I met, and our family is still here. I wanted my kids to grow up surrounded by family and in an amazing community.
How do you practice self-care?
I am an introvert, so self-care for me is sometimes saying no to an event or dinner. At the end of the day or week, if I have already overextended myself, I know I need to take some time to decompress. To re-energize I will take a walk alone, get outside into nature, meditate or even bake! This allows me to be the best version of myself.
What is your go-to healthy family meal, that everyone loves?
My husband is the big cook in the family. I love to bake. My favorite healthy sweet snack is a no bake brownie with dates, protein powder and cocoa. I love anything vegan, and gluten free.
Favorite Date Night restaurant/activity in SouthOC? (pre or post COVID)
We love Laguna Beach. We love to go to The Deck and walk around the Festivals of the Arts. Supporting the local community is important to us.
How can SouthOCMoms find your amazing products?
Ro & Arrows grip socks are available online at roandarrows.com. They can also find them at amazing local studios like Barewell and Coretown Pilates. We are also available on Amazon.
