By: Sarah Morton
Step inside Evoken Wellness Studio, and you’re immediately struck by the serene ambiance. The soft glow of candles, the gentle aroma of lavender, and the soothing playlist transport you far away from the hustle and bustle of West Hollywood. It’s a space designed to nourish both body and soul, and as the studio celebrates its one-year anniversary, founder Janina Washington is looking back on a year of transformation, both personal and professional.
“I was inspired to launch Evoken because of my own personal journey with Pilates,” Janina shared. “Initially, I wasn’t someone who enjoyed working out, but when I found Pilates, it completely transformed not only my body but also my mindset. I knew I wanted to create a space where people could experience that same transformation.” This ethos of personal growth and transformation has been woven into every aspect of Evoken, making it more than just a fitness studio—it’s a sanctuary.
The chic, minimalist space at 1105 N. Hayworth Ave offers more than just Pilates and yoga. Evoken is a complete wellness experience featuring offerings such as sound baths, meditation, and advanced recovery treatments like contrast therapy and an infrared sauna. The newly opened wellness suite has become a popular addition for clients seeking comprehensive health solutions. “The new wellness suite with contrast therapy is already making waves, and we have more exciting additions on the horizon,” Janina explained.
The studio’s focus on holistic well-being has resonated deeply with the local community. “One of the most memorable milestones was hitting five-star reviews in such a short period of time,” Janina shared. “The feedback we get is so heartfelt—people talk about how the space has become a sanctuary for them, a place where they feel safe, supported, and part of a community.” It’s a success story that’s all the more impressive given Janina’s journey to get here.
“The first year of running Evoken came with its fair share of challenges, especially after the financial strain of closing my previous studio,” she revealed. “With bankruptcy in my past, I couldn’t take out business loans or even a credit card, so I relied on personal loans from friends to get things started.” Janina’s tenacity and resourcefulness have paid off, and the studio’s rapid growth has led to increased interest from both the wellness and business communities.
As Evoken enters its second year, Janina is already looking toward the future. “We’re excited to introduce more wellness-focused services,” she shared. “We just launched our new wellness suite, which offers contrast therapy, an infrared sauna, and a cold plunge. It’s an incredible addition for those looking to incorporate recovery into their routine.”
But the exciting news might be Evoken’s potential expansion. “Many clients have asked for teacher training, and that’s something we’re now seriously considering offering,” Janina revealed. “Because Los Angeles is such an international hub, we’ve also had a lot of requests to bring Evoken to other cities. Clients have mentioned places like New York, London, Paris, Mexico City, and Barcelona, saying there’s nothing quite like what we offer anywhere else.”
The one-year anniversary event, held on October 5th, was a celebration of this success. Guests were treated to live music by DJ Tess, exclusive brand collaborations with wellness and lifestyle brands, and an opportunity to experience Evoken’s unique offerings firsthand. Red Carpet arrivals, a cocktail and mocktail bar, and specialty gift bags added an extra touch of glamour to the evening, making it a night to remember.
“We’ve built a strong community, and I’m beyond grateful for the support and enthusiasm of our clients and partners,” Janina shared. “The positive response has shaped our growth strategy and given us the confidence to keep expanding. We’re becoming a full-spectrum wellness space, and the best is yet to come.”
With its emphasis on holistic well-being, inclusive atmosphere, and a focus on mental and physical health, Evoken has quickly become a go-to destination for wellness enthusiasts in West Hollywood. As Janina and her team look toward the future, the studio is set to continue making waves in the wellness industry and beyond.
Published By: Aize Perez
