Today marks the grand opening of Life Towne Center, and we’re so excited to welcome them onto the Proximity Network! Located in Boutte, Louisiana, this space includes conference rooms, on-site courses, free parking, and coffee! Space owner Carla was inspired to open after providing services to veteran-owned small businesses.

When did you open your coworking space and what enticed you to do so? 
Life Towne Center will open on Monday, June 3, 2019, at 9:00 a.m.  We are hosting a free launch party on May 31, 2019, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. I was encouraged to open the space after providing services to Veteran-Owned Small Businesses. I found that the number one cause for failure in their entrepreneur journey was the lack of funding and cost of office/business space. I desired to share the cost and give veterans and small business owners an affordable option to start, grow, or expand their companies.

Tell us about your space. How big is it? What kinds of amenities do you have?
Life Towne Center’s initial space (additions and new space already in the works) is 1,650 sq. ft. of coworking space and a 400 sq. feet and 700 sq. ft. conference rooms. The amenities are networking opportunities, comfortable chairs & office furniture, conference room time, on-site courses and guest speakers, printing and fax options, high speed wifi, free parking, address & mailbox services, free coffee and water, snacks, computers, monthly pop up shop options and free entrepreneur services…especially veterans.

What is your favorite thing about operating a coworking space?
My favorite thing about operating a coworking space is seeing how many are inspired to start, grow and expand their companies.

What has been the most surprising/unexpected thing about operating a coworking space? 
The most surprising/unexpected thing about operating a coworking space is the cost of renovations and equipment.

What’s your favorite story about one of your members? 
One of my members started out volunteering with renovations with no intent on becoming a small business owner. By the end of the completion of the project, she had a business in mind and encouraged her family and friends to consider entrepreneurship. Another favorite is a young and very energetic and motivated couple came up with a unique business model and had their vision into existence in three days. They made an appointment to see the building and immediately fell in love with the atmosphere and business model and rented an executive desk, mailbox, and address on the spot.

What is your biggest piece of advice for someone wanting to open a space?
My biggest piece of advice is to seek guidance from professionals such as Proximity. Your expertise and assistance are invaluable…, especially with billing!

Learn more about Life Towne Center here and on their social channels!