Each Wednesday for the Napa Valley Register’s Business Focus features “10 Questions” for a local entrepreneur or businessperson. Readers are welcome to suggest businesspeople to be profiled.   

Visitors to Symmetry Fitness Studios work out on weights and do cardio exercises in eucalyptus scented air. Members can try out yoga and Pilates as the fragrance of geranium and lavender wafts through the facility. At Jeannie Hutton’s new business, she’s hoping to draw in women who will appreciate the aesthetics of a day spa with the workout of a gym.

“This is an expanded idea of fitness,” said Hutton. “I want to tie in the mind and body experience. When you walk in the door, it’s not being in a gym, it’s like walking into a spa. Your workout time turns more into a retreat, it’s your time to escape, unwind and care about yourself.”

What three people would you most like to have dinner with?

The one I would most like to have dinner with is my grandpa Ted. He passed away last year and I learned a lot about him after his death. I would love to have dinner with him and talk to him more. I really miss him.

The second person is a tough one to pick. On one hand I would love to have dinner with Princess Diana, though I think I would be too worried about etiquette to relax. I also think it would be fun to dine with Ellen DeGeneres. It takes a special person to make fun out of everyday life.

The last place setting would be for my 9-year-old daughter, Hannah, and my 6-year-old daughter, Georgia. Not only would it be wonderful to converse with the above-mentioned adults, but I would love to sit back and listen to my children talk to them and get an entirely different perspective.

What job would you like to try/not like to try?

Veterinarian for both. On one hand, I think animals are much more reasonable than people. On the other hand, needles make me pass out!

What was your first job?

My first job was working at a candy shop on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. I would come home covered in cotton candy.

How did you get into this business? 

I was a personal trainer in college and always enjoyed working with people. After the birth of my second daughter I turned a studio in my home into a gym, advertised on craigslist.org, and started my own personal training business. It’s just blossomed from there.

What is the biggest challenge your business has faced?

Getting open! The original opening date was set for January of 2006. Unfortunately, there were several delays with the construction and it didn’t open until mid-August.

What is your most treasured possession (besides your family)?

My new-old beach cruiser. When I was in junior high my parents gave me a Schwinn Cruiser for Christmas. Last Christmas, my husband and daughters had it refurbished for me. I love it! 

 What’s your favorite expression or greeting?

“Stop and smell the roses.” I literally stop and smell the roses across the street from the gym whenever I go by. Figuratively, I try just to stop and look at all of the wonderful things in my life, my husband, my daughters, my friends.

What is one necessary extravagance in your life?

A convertible! I don’t have one yet but I get to drive my mother-in-law’s every so often. I never knew that a vehicle could be so much fun!

What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?

I love ultimate fighting (mixed martial arts)!

What is your favorite charity?

The SPCA. I volunteered there with my daughters petting cats. It only took three to four visits before we adopted an orange cat.

 

The 11th question for Jeannie Hutton

Why open a business for women only?

 “I think women have a special need as far as fitness. Women have had images of society imposed upon them. Walking into a gym is very intimidating. We need somewhere to escape. And to be comfortable exploring fitness and wellness. Your guard comes down when you walk in here, this is a very inviting, unintimidating place.”

Additionally, “What also sets us apart is that I don’t have as many members,” she said. “There’s not a crowd, we know you by name,” she said.Symmetry Fitness Studios is found at 1558 Silverado Trail in Napa.

To suggest a candidate for “10 Questions” e-mail jhuffman@napanews.com