Inside Carrie’s Pilates: The Founder Tells Us What Sets Her Studio Apart

When Carrie Minter Ebers set out to create her own Pilates studio, she wanted to do something different. “Back then, Pilates had a reputation for being either too slow, too expensive, or just not approachable for everyone,” Ebers tells us. “I wanted to change that. I wanted a place where you could sweat, shake, and smile in the same hour—something efficient, glamorous, and grounded in real results. That’s why I created Carrie’s Pilates—a hybrid of Pilates, cardio bursts, and resistance training on a reformer that works you from the inside out.” 

Here’s everything Ebers had to say—from how she overcame challenges as a female entrepreneur to her favorite wellness products.

Haute Living: Let’s start at the beginning, how did you discover your love for pilates?

Carrie Minter Ebers: I started doing Pilates when I was modeling. It got me in shape fast, but what surprised me was how much it helped me mentally. The challenge, the focus, and the control became a form of moving meditation that gave me strength beyond the physical. That’s when I knew it wasn’t just a workout; it was the one for me. I felt empowered, strong, connected, and confident and I wanted to share that with others.

HL: The CP+ Transformer 2.0 is a proprietary piece of equipment that sets your studios apart. Can you share the story behind its development and how it enhances the workout experience for your clients?

CME: The Transformer 2.0 was born out of necessity. I wanted something more versatile, modern, and space-conscious than what was on the market. So, I worked with a dear friend of my husband, Grant Delagatty, who custom designed and engineered our patent-pending reformer that folds, adjusts to all levels, and elevates the workout experience. It’s sleek, smart, and powerful just like our clients.

HL: As a female entrepreneur in the competitive fitness industry, what strategies or personal qualities have been most critical to overcoming obstacles and scaling your business to multiple locations?

CME: Resilience and authenticity. I’ve learned to trust my gut and never stray from my brand’s values – community, transformation, and high standards. I’m also not afraid to get in the trenches with my team. Whether it’s teaching a class or tweaking a business model, I lead with love and clarity. And I’ve surrounded myself with people who believe in the vision. 

HL: Anything you wish you could tell your younger self? 

CME: Stop doubting yourself. Every ‘no’ is a redirection not a rejection. The things that make you different will one day be your greatest strengths. Trust the process, and never dim your light to fit in.

HL: Your franchise model has fueled rapid growth, with four studios open and plans for ten more in the next year. How do you ensure consistency in quality and community culture across your expanding network of studios?

CME: Our journey begins with our people. Every franchisee trains at our West Hollywood flagship to experience the CP+ way. We provide detailed playbooks, mentorship, and digital tools for local teams. The Trainers significantly impact our brand; I oversee their recruitment, training, and quality control. Above all, each studio focuses on transformation, inclusivity, and empowerment.

HL: Beyond fitness, you’re a strong advocate for mental health and special needs, notably through your work with Camp Summit. How do you integrate these values into Carrie’s Pilates, and what impact do you hope to have on your clients’ mental well-being?

CME: Fitness is just one part of wellness. At Carrie’s Pilates, we talk about mental strength just as much as physical. My brother Michael, who is autistic and non-verbal, has taught me so much about patience, compassion, and resilience. That’s why we support causes like Camp Summit and create safe spaces for all bodies. I want every client to walk out feeling seen, strong, and supported inside and out.

HL: Looking ahead, you’ve outlined ambitious goals, including 50 global locations, new wellness products, and a YouTube channel. What’s your vision for the future of Carrie’s Pilates, and how do you plan to balance innovation with maintaining the inclusive community you’ve built?

CME: My vision is to grow Carrie’s Pilates thoughtfully around cities where the brand’s energy and community can really shine. We’re focused on scaling in key regions like DFW, Houston, Toronto, Orange County, and Boston. We’re also exploring new partnerships in places like Scottsdale, Miami, Nashville, and NYC with the potential for international expansion down the line. As we grow, staying true to our culture of transformation, glam, and inclusivity is everything. Each studio should feel like a home base for strength—inside and out.

HL: As a wellness leader, what are your….

Top wellness products you can’t live without

CME: ⁠Hot water with lemon first thing in the morning, Physician’s Choice Probiotic, and not really a product but I’m really big on daily self-care- whether it’s just taking a walk outside, getting a massage or a facial, doing a face mask at home, setting aside an hour of quiet time to read a new book, calling a friend and having a good catch up sesh, listening to a podcast I can learn from, red light therapy, sauna, etc… Having a little “me” time in this crazy busy world has really been great for my mental health wellness.

Physician’s Choice Probiotic

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Beauty products you’re currently obsessed with

CME: I love a good pinky nude lip liner, lipstick and gloss, Ardell #113 lashes, and Anastasia shimmer body oil.

Ardell Wispies False Eyelashes 113

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Anastasia Beverly Hills Shimmer Body Oil

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Current Pilates workout sets you to love?

CME: My go-to is a black-on-black Carrie’s Pilates sports bra and high-waisted leggings, but I also love pops of hot pink or cherry red for a little glam.

Up Next: Everything To Know About A Reformer Workout.

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