By Ben Rodgers
Editor
ASHWAUBENON – Brooke McMillan believes hard work yields results and because of that she is one of the final three finalists for the 2018 Young Entrepreneur of the year award, presented by the Greater Green Bay Chamber.
The 2008 Pulaski High School graduate is owner of Pure Barre (pronounced bar), a musically-driven workout class with instructors that uses isometric movements to sculpt and shape the body.
“We’re all about community here to be honest,” McMillan said. “Community and kindness. I feel kindness goes a long way. My girls and staff truly care about people and that makes the business successful.”
McMillan got the idea to open a Pure Barre when she lived in Savannah, Georgia.
As a area native who wanted to move back to the area to raise her family, she always wanted to see the area flourish.
With that mindset, her business supports local non-profits throughout the year, including the Boys and Girls Club, Girl Scouts, Alzheimer’s Association, MDA and more.
“I do think it’s a ripple effect,” McMillan said. “Women get filled up here and in turn leave the studio and fill up someone else’s cup.”
As a 27-year-old with a husband and two little kids, McMillan said there were some challenges with opening up a studio.
“I knew I could do it and I knew I could do it because of the Green Bay community,” she said. “I know what people like here and they are tightknit, which is perfect for this.”
A session of Pure Barre lasts about 50 minutes and there are different levels.
Pure Classic is a low-impact, high-energy class. Pure Empower is a cardio, strength-building class. Pure Foundations is a beginner class. And coming this fall, Pure Reform is a resistance and strength class.
When McMillan started she had four instructors. That number is now 18 with 36 class offerings seven days a week.
“We’re going to keep growing,” she said. “We’re going to stay focused with our clientele here, being true to who we are and empowering people.”
McMillan said none of her success would be possible without the help of her husband, Tate, her children, Elle and Crew, and the rest of her family.
She also credits her staff and clients for always giving it their all.
“The community of women we have here is like none other,” she said. “They keep it going everyday.”
As for paying it forward by supporting area non-profits, McMillan said it’s just her contribution to the greater good in the Green Bay area.
“I grew up here and I want to see this place succeed,” she said.
The Future 15 Young Entrepreneur will be awarded on April 26 at the Fire and Ice Gala at the KI Convention Center.
Pure Barre is located at 2621 S. Oneida St., by Panera Bread.
For more information about Pure Barre, like the Facebook page Pure Barre (Green Bay) or follow them on Instagram.
In order to book classes, visit purebarre.com/wi-greenbay.