Studio Owner Spotlight: Sammy from Club Mello
Nestled in the heart of Claremont, Western Australia Club Mello is more than a Pilates studio—it’s a warm, vibrant sanctuary built on connection, self-compassion, and the power of movement. For founder Sammy Tysoe, the journey to creating this welcoming space has been a story of courage, growth, and a deep love of community.
“I’ve always been an active person,” she shares. “Growing up in a sporty family, my mum and sister inspired me with their love of movement. I played basketball from age nine and spent years working in different 9–5 jobs, starting in mining at 17. Later, I became the community manager at Leelo Active and started teaching Pilates at their events, which is where I truly fell in love with the sense of connection it brought.”
That spark ignited a vision: not just to teach Pilates, but to create a space where people feel welcomed, supported, and free to move without pressure.
“Life can be tough,” she reflects. “Having a safe place to feel good—no strings attached—felt so important.
When I started studying Pilates four years ago, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be.”
From Vision to Reality
Opening Club Mello was no small feat. “A huge milestone was simply getting the doors open,” she says. “From signing paperwork to completing a full renovation in just 12–15 weeks—it was tough, and honestly, I still can’t believe I’m here talking about it.”
Since launching over twelve months ago, the studio has quickly become a hub for the wellness community, hosting events with all sorts of brands. From August, TrainMe Education will also run teacher training onsite, expanding Club Mello’s impact even further.
Running about 60 classes per week—including Reformer and Mat Pilates, Yoga, and Breathwork—Club Mello reflects her holistic approach to health. “By offering this mix, we’re creating a space where people can tune in to what they really need,” she explains. “Whether it’s an energising workout, a moment of calm, or an emotional reset, having access to different tools allows people to approach their health with more intention, variety, and self-compassion.”
Designing a Sanctuary
From day one, the studio’s design was integral to the experience. “I knew I wanted it to feel light-filled, vibrant, and inviting,” she says. “The design focused on clean lines, calming tones, and an open layout that encourages not just movement, but conversation and connection.”
Her partner, who works in real estate, played a big role in bringing that vision to life. “That was a huge positive,” she adds.
It’s the details that set Club Mello apart: incense is lit for every class, the same calming scent greeting clients each visit, and mindfulness practices begin and end every session. “I wanted everyone to feel like they were walking into their own little retreat,” she says.
The Claremont community has embraced the space wholeheartedly. “A lot of people tell me, ‘When I walk in here, I feel immediately relaxed,’ or ‘It’s like I’m walking into a day spa,’” she shares. “I could sit in here all day.’ That feedback means everything.”
Equally important is her commitment to celebrating each instructor’s individuality. “I told my team, you’re here because you’re incredible teachers,” she explains. “All I ask is that you offer mindfulness and create a welcoming space. Beyond that, teach in your own beautifully unique way.”
The Lessons of Resilience
While the journey has been rewarding, it hasn’t been without challenges. “One of the biggest was dealing with self-doubt,” she admits. “I’m naturally a perfectionist, so when things didn’t go exactly to plan—like having to delay our opening date—it felt like the worst thing at the time.”
In hindsight, she sees those moments as essential growth. “The experience taught me so much about resilience,” she says. “I’ve learned to trust the process and believe everything happens for a reason. Even if it doesn’t feel clear in the moment, it always guides you to where you’re meant to be.”
Adding to the whirlwind, she was also planning her wedding during the studio’s launch. “I would not recommend that,” she laughs.
Building Community
Beyond regular classes, Club Mello has already begun hosting special experiences, like Breathwork and Matcha workshops, with more women’s health events on the way. Looking ahead, she hopes to expand into retreats and educational events for both men and women.
“I’ve been teaching 20–23 classes a week, so stepping back a little to focus inside the business is exciting—but also scary,” she admits.
Her advice to anyone dreaming of opening their own studio is clear:
“Stay true to yourself. It’s easy to compare and feel like you should follow what others are doing, but your vision and intentions are what make your studio unique. Focus on your why, trust the process, and enjoy the journey—even when it feels uncertain. You’re doing this because you love it.”
And in the case of Club Mello, that love shines through in every detail, every breath, and every warm welcome.
Sammy Tysoe is the proud owner of Club Mello in Claremont, Western Australia