For almost 30 years, Adrienne Frandsen has been growing and evolving the scope of her business, and her expertise, in Kingston. What began in 1993 as a salon specializing in foot, skin and body care is today Akasha Healing and Yoga.

Adrienne’s resume includes Certified Yoga Therapist, Certified Sound Healing Therapist and Reiki Practitioner, in addition to her background in aesthetics, passion for fitness, and experience as an aerobics and spin instructor.

Her team may deliver many different services under one roof, but these all have one thing in common—one-on-one care that is often hands on. This became a big challenge with the pandemic. Adrienne found herself for the first time delivering remote sessions and classes online, “from my ancient iPad in my living room.”

With the help of the Digital Main Street Digital Transformation Grant and her local Digital Service Squad, run by the Kingston Economic Development Corporation, Akasha Healing and Yoga is acquiring the tools and skills to become a connected, digital business. This includes a new point-of-sale system to grow online sales, an online booking system for appointments, and better tools than an old iPad with which to deliver online sessions and workshops.

“As a business owner, don’t be afraid to ask for help,” Adrienne said. “I am the kind of person who always wants to do everything myself because I never want to burden anyone. But I have learned that there is a supportive community out there where you can get help and provide help to others. DMS is part of that.”

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