In November 2015, massage therapist Martha Jackson launched her independent practice, BODYWORKS Massage, in Charleston. Through BODYWORKS Massage, Jackson offers a variety of massage modalities and session options.
Though new to ownership, Jackson has practiced massage therapy in the Charleston area since 2003, working for others. While skilled in massage techniques, Jackson knew she couldn’t tackle the technological side of her new endeavor. “I’m a massage therapist; I’m not the most computer savvy person. I know that you can take a stone and turn it into a building, but I realized that I’m not the best at computer work or anything like that, so it’s best to hire somebody who knows what they are doing.”
On a recommendation from a mutual client, Jackson called Jamie Summers-Brown of Bricks Without Straw, who immediately focused on the start-up’s IT and promotional needs. “He made my Facebook page, my business cards, developed several signs. He got my website up and running.”
Keeping Clients Sane
Another huge help: Jamie introduced Jackson to Google Voice. “I didn’t even know that I could have a separate phone number that rang into my regular phone. Jamie got that set up for me.” She listed the many benefits of using the free service. “I like that it separates my business from personal (life). To have a. . . separate line, I’d be paying for another phone.” Laughing, she added, “And phone and car keys, I cannot keep up with, so trying to keep up with two different phones--I’d probably lose my mind.”
Recalling all that Jamie had covered behind the scenes for her new business, Jackson admitted, “He’s pretty much done everything (and) I really don’t know everything that he’s done. I mean, he has made this whole process so much easier. Because all I had to do was get my place set up, contact my people, and do what I love most. He has been the one taking care of everything that I don’t know how to do.”
I mean, he has made this whole process so much easier. Because all I had to do was get my place set up, contact my people, and do what I love most. He has been the one taking care of everything that I don’t know how to do.
Print Material
The straightforward Jackson also hired Jamie for her print needs, and is pleased that Jamie’s product reflects her uncomplicated style. “He did my business cards and gift cards. I know that Vista Print does cards for people cheap, but they look like were cheaply made. And I don’t want a pretty picture on my card. He has mine pretty much to the point. People need to know my business name, my name, where I’m at, my phone number, website, and that’s it.” Jamie also designed the logo for BODYWORKS Massage, and printed signs to help promote Jackson in the Charleston area.
When Jackson first contacted Jamie in the last week of October 2015, she told him she needed everything done by Thanksgiving. Jamie didn’t disappoint. “It was a very quick process. . .he was very prompt and pretty much met my deadline.” Jackson would recommend Jamie to anyone. “He’s very thorough, very prompt, and he’s also personable. I’m very appreciative of everything that he’s done.”