Haley Gaskin, the business’ owner, spoke during Monday’s Warren City Council meeting. After a soft opening held at the end of May just to get the business open and running, plans are being made for a grand opening celebration before the end of August. Gaskin, who resides in Smethporth with her boyfriend, extended River View’s original hours after receiving requests to do so from customers.

River View Nutrition’s menu includes specialty coffees, teas and protein shakes as well as a special children’s menu. Clean, bright and airy with a view of the Allegheny, River View Nutrition is one of many independently owned “nutrition clubs” recognized and approved by Herbalife, of which Gaskin is a distributor. Leaving her position in healthcare, Gaskin said she has confidence that switching career gears and making the choice to own her own business in her 20s was the right move.

“It’s all about choices,” Gaskin said, talking about life and food. “You can pay $15 for fast food or $9 here,” adding “nutrition doesn’t have to be disgusting”.

A first-time customer visiting the shop earlier this week after seeing its Instagram page stopped in for a “Sharknado” to sip on while filling out med school applications. Jacob Grove, a frequent customer, said he has been into the club for meal replacement shakes for himself saying he appreciates the “low carb” component. Praising the Peanut Butter Cheesecake shake he opted for Cinnamon Toast Crunch for himself but also had specialty teas to take home, joking “My wife would be mad if I didn’t bring her something!”

Pictured is a first-time customer at River View Nutrition earlier this week with Haley Gaskin, the shop’s owner. After a soft opening at the end of May, River View Nutrition will have a formal grand opening before the end of August.

Gaskin said she is planning to hire more help at the club due to the amount of business River View Nutrition is generating thus far. The shop has outdoor seating provided by the city, with future plans including the addition of indoor seating as well as a mobile club that can be taken to special events and vendor fairs.

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.