In between meetings one busy day I picked up a message from Tina Trevino, owner of Copper Moon Yoga. The studio hadn’t opened yet; she was aiming for October 2018 and was in the throes of construction. With branding and logo design on the to do list and in between shopping for bathroom fixtures and aerial hammocks she said, “Jackie – our friend Scott told me I should call you about branding. I’ve been so busy and we’re getting close to ordering signage for the building – but I have no logo!”
One expects panic to accompany the meaning of the words, however, her voice was friendly – joyful and peaceful. I thought to myself, I could use some of that good energy.
“Sometimes you need a different perspective.” Tina Trevino, Owner
I rang her back and sooner than later I was driving to Ahwatukee where she greeted me with a hug, a laugh and a smile, gave me a tour of the studio which was under construction (but making good gains) and inviting me to sit for a bit. She shared her business plan and what really stood out to me was her vision for the studio. “One studio for all.” Inclusive, warm, positive – full of life. Within the pages of her plan, she outlined each class, named each one as though it was the birth of a baby we announce by name, weight, length and birth date! I love that! There were years’ worth of thoughts, dreams and intentions carefully articulated and typeset within the construct of this book – the book that had no logo. I paged through and thought that her brand lived within the pages and if I could have one design brief with her, the rest would be history.
So, it was.
The next meeting was our design brief. I love this part of the branding process because this is when the client shares her personality and style, likes and dislikes, and in Tina’s case, amongst the chaos, she shared what gives her “sol” or a sense of peace.
Design brief in tow, and inspired by Arizona minerals and the night sky, the Copper Moon logo was created.
Additionally, we came up with this original design that we affectionately called “yoga lady” – really, it’s Tina. If you know Tina, you can see the resemblance. 😊
Recently I chatted with Tina about some ideas for this article. She shared her story with me. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
What does Yoga mean to you?
Tina: Yoga is a way of life. My daily practice influences all the choices I make in life. Choices about what I eat, how I spend my time and with whom I spend it. It teaches me to make more sound decisions when it comes to relationships and it influences my behavior, patterns and habits. Yoga is a lifestyle – it’s my way of life.
When did you start your practice?
Tina: I was living in Maui in ’94 and one of my dear friends was into hot-yoga. She took me along one day. I’d never heard about Bikram. It was challenging to say the least and although my very first class was a complete blur – didn’t perform all the poses and some incorrectly I’m sure, but I didn’t care. I wanted more of it. I had to go back and try again. I needed to figure out what this was all about – so much so that I took a class at Maui Community College. It wasn’t Bikram but it revealed a gentler side of yoga. I was seeking. I just couldn’t help it – even at times when I couldn’t afford to go to a class, I did it on my own, at home. I tried to remember the poses, I guess you can say I just practiced. It was something I felt was part of me and I couldn’t – wouldn’t let go of it.
I personally love the hot classes: warm yin, sculpt, heated flow – maybe because I’m an Arizona native. I love the warmth and especially the humidity. I love knowing that every pore “released” something that needed to go!
It was my first class – that moment is when I knew I wanted to learn all I could and teach it to others. I wanted to be knowledgeable about the many facets of yoga and pursued this lifestyle and intended to share it with the world.
Where did you study?
My initial 200-hour training took place in Las Vegas. I had moved into a neighborhood where there was a multi-room studio. At the studio they taught hot yoga, Pilates, bootcamps – all of it. It was amazing to see professional and amateur athletes and sports performers including yoga in with their workouts. Their dedication was inspiring.
I didn’t have much money at the time, so I offered to work at the studio for free in exchange for instruction. I completed my 200 hours and since then, over the past decade or more have supplemented with numerous 30-hour training courses. While I worked at the studio, I learned every aspect of the business. This was incredibly interesting to me and an extremely valuable experience. I’m so grateful having had the opportunity.
I’ve been so fortunate to know and engage with some of the best mentors in Las Vegas. These individuals inspired me – they are global performers who shared vast life experiences with me. Each had their own yoga background – it taught me that yoga isn’t black or white – it can be gray. Gray to me means that an individual’s practice is evolving. It can be traditional, innovative and creative. A yoga “point-of-view” is expressed by many individuals not just one. My mentors taught me to be accepting and open to others’ ideas.
What motivated you to open Copper Moon Yoga?
Tina: I think the more I practiced, the more I knew I’d have my own studio at some point and I internalized that idea for a short time. Upon becoming a teacher, I actively began my journey to open Copper Moon Yoga. I was willing to make sacrifices and knew if I persisted, I’d get here eventually.
What advice do you have for beginners?
Tina: We were all beginners once. We all attended our first class not knowing what to expect.
What’s your favorite part of the day?
Tina: I think it’s a seasonal thing for me – in the summer, I’m up bright and early, can’t wait to hike and get out into the warm sun. In the winter the morning alarm is not my friend. I want to stay in bed, where it’s warm. My favorite part of the day must be the warmest part!
Do you have a ritual?
Tina: Every day I take a moment to express gratitude for someone I appreciate. I’m thankful for so many people in my life. It’s humbling when someone tells me how much they enjoyed a class or how it made them feel. It brings me to tears sometimes. I’m overwhelmed.
What’s your life’s dream?
Tina: I think I’m living it.
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