Dance Studio Owners's topics - tribe.net

So, what do ya do?

Chandra — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 11:07:19 GMT

I seem to be hearing from everyone how today's economic slow down is affecting class size and new registrations...
I'm experiencing this myself - but maybe having a harder time of it due to the fact that I only just opened my studio a few months back.

So what do ya do about it? How do you approach things in this economic climb?
I've re-arranged the schedule a bit - as many of our advanced students wanted to take a Solo Improv class held on another night, but did not want to make a second trip on diff day (due to rising fuel cost). so we swapped a beginner class that hadn't gotten going yet w/ that and how have 2 full classes on that night instead of 2 partially filled ones on diff nights.
But I've just had a discussion w/ my Tribal instructor - and we've decided to discontinue her classes for a time. (just not enough bodies/interest there). AND she lives an hours drive away - which hits her in the wallet too. May bring her back for a workshop and the see about future classes.

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 0 replies

On requiring contracts...

Chandra — Sat, 03 May 2008 13:38:35 GMT

I know this question has been asked before - but I'm asking from a bit of a different perspective
How many of you out there require your instructors to sign some kind of contract before they begin teaching with you?
Did you always have it? and if not when/why did you institute it?
and if you do not currently have one - are you considering it?

I'm asking because I have a contract, and instructors that currently teach at my studio have all read/signed it.
It spells out what the relationship between the studio and instructor is, how they get paid, etc.
But I have been speaking with an instructor in another style of dance that we'd like to offer classes in (our studio tagline is "Global Fusion Through Movement and Sound" and so would like to offer a variety of world dances). Anyway, this instructor is balking at the contract - stating that she has always done business on just a handshake, and that not only has she never heard of having to sign a contract, but none of the other instructors she know has had to either.

I don't do business on just a handshake, and will continue to require the contract.
But I'm curious as to if this is common or not?

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 2 replies

Floors!

jordana_bint_zweena — Wed, 18 Apr 2007 19:42:41 GMT

What type of floors do you have in your studio?
Spring flooring is soooooo expensive, any alt.suggestions?

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 6 replies

New dance classes!!

nicolesbellydance — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 13:56:33 GMT

Ok my studio will be done on the 28th of this month and then my new dance studio is ready for classes. So if you are around the Rittman area and are interested please leave me a message. I will also post pictures whenever my mirrors are up on the 28th.
Thanks,
Nicole

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 2 replies

Pictures??

tribaldancer — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 06:13:46 GMT

I want more pictures of studios, too!
Look how greedy I am!

Post them in the photo album! WHEE!

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 0 replies

Equipment for your business

tribaldancer — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 20:53:24 GMT

I am bummed there aren't more responses to my previous inquiries. But hope to get some more there as well as here.

I am trying to work up a budget for the proposed studio, and aside from build-out costs for the space I want to lease, there are equipment and materials costs. What did you have to buy for your studio and office? Here is a list I have so far:

Computer equipment - computer, printer, fax, scanner, software
Furniture - seating, tables, cubbies, cabinets for stereo/equipment, desk, display racks for sales items, bulletin boards
Stereo and speakers
Decor - wall hangings, art, paint, rugs

Add to the list!

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 2 replies

New studio!

nicolesbellydance — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 02:23:32 GMT

Ok, I finally am working on my new studio. I am so excited and I cant wait. It will be done in less than 2 months. I will teach at my normal places but as well as my studio. All is painted and looks amazing!!! I can not wait! YAY.
Nicole

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 4 replies

Taking the leap: how did you know?

tribaldancer — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 18:25:07 GMT

So I am on the edge of the precipice of dance studio ownership. And it is a biiiig leap. And I am feeling pretty....trepidatious (freaking out!).

So I put it to you studio owners...

How did you know when you were ready to open your studio?
What was your motivation?
What did you do to prepare yourself?

And once you were deep in it...
How long did it take to get your space ready to move in and run classes?
How long did it take for you to run in the black?

I need some wisdom, friends! Share!

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 12 replies

On marketing

Chandra — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 06:26:43 GMT

I've read several posts (here and on other tribes) where the poster mentions they "made some serious mistakes with spending too much on marketing that didn't work"
Having just recently opened - I'd like to avoid that if possible. Anyone care to share w/ all of us what (besides word of mouth) has worked or not worked for them?

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 1 reply

Event questions for owners who do workshop events

ZN — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 13:42:58 GMT

Hi Everyone,

What do you charge the vendors for vending at your workshop events and what does it include. Are the table covers included in the price of the event? What do you personally furnish with the vending fees. You can just email me personally if you do not want to answer openly.

Thanks

Zahirah

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 5 replies

Yes! OMG finally...

Chandra — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 16:47:23 GMT

Heya everybody!
after much effort and work, and wayyy to much passing time - my studio "Beledi Bay" is now open
(yaaaaay! fanfare and all that)

I'm sooo freakin' excited!!!

Beledy Bay
"Global Fusion Through Movement and Sound"

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 2 replies

Getting started in corporate entertainment

Chandra — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 07:55:46 GMT

Question for those of you out there in the know...
I'm looking to find locations for my instructors and advanced students/troupes to perform professionally (outside of the normal restaurant gig). I'd like to get them booked at corporate functions/events - but haven't a clue as to how to begin.

Anyone willing to share/advise?

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 0 replies

Cabaret Comprehensive Certification in Sarasota, FL!

Chandra — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:04:55 GMT

with Bellydance Superstar Ansuya
January 25, 26, & 27 2008

January 25 7:30-10:30pm / January 26 12:00-4:00pm / January 27 12:00-4:00pm
$150 Pre-Registration $180 at the door

For Info and registration go to http://www.ansuya.com/sarasotacabaret.html

I'm attending the course down in Naples, FL ...
and I wholheartedly suggest you at least check it out.
Tell them Chandra sent ya!

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 0 replies

Hiring staff question...

Sabeya — Mon, 18 Dec 2006 00:42:53 GMT

Do you hire already qualified staff, or do you train your teachers to work in your dance studio so they teach with your standards?

What have you found to be the pros and cons?

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 10 replies

Atmosphere in your studio

audracleopatra — Mon, 11 Dec 2006 14:47:08 GMT

As I am soon to open the doors in my studio, I wanted to know what you have done to create atmosphere in your studio.

I am thinking of paint of course, a color that is warm and relaxing. But what else have you done to your space to make it that?

Do you think that your students appreciate that part of your efforts? Do you think that atmosphere matters?

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 3 replies

Attracting Students

Melissa — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 03:19:41 GMT

So,we all know it takes money to make money..But at times when you are in charge of your own over-head,money out put for other things,such as advertising, can be tight.What is everyone doing to get students into their classes,and studios?As far as advertising,promos,events,etc...And bookings,what are you doing to get private lesson student's versus group class students?
Any thoughts? :)

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 2 replies

Dance studio: rental fees and annial dues?

tribaldancer — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 05:27:49 GMT

Does anyone charge an annual fee along with regular rental fees each month for their instructors?

Just thinking out loud for a possible future studio I may have.

I wondered if I could somehow make a line between casual renters and "resident instructors" with an annual fee, which would include use of the office, access to the prime time rental hours, inclusion in the studio insurance policy, etc. But would still be a renter, rather than an employee, and thus would maintain their own autonomy.

Anyone? Thoughts?

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 1 reply

Teacher contracts...

Chandra — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:49:15 GMT

Oooh! I'm getting closer to opening my studio. (Bounce, Bounce)
The instructors that am opening with are all lined up and waiting for doors to open (even have some students patiently chomping at the bit for that too).
The first event that'll take place when open is an UNMATA Workshop (if everything is NOT set and done by then - I do have a secondary location for the workshop. But I do hope that can be held "at MY studio")

But I'm wondering if any of you out there have IC (independant contractor) agreements that you require your instructors to sign? I'd really like to see how they read...
You know, just outlining that they are in fact independent contractors and not employees, that they know and understand studio policies w/ regards to the studio, etc.

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 0 replies

Grand Opening!

jordana_bint_zweena — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:56:43 GMT

Hello ladies!

I had a few questions about Grand Openings,

how big?

who to invite? (and not hurt peoples feelings)

My original open date is the same as an event in Indy, should I change it?

Should I have 2? One to attract locals and one for visitng belly dancers?

Help me please, my brain is so full of stuff!

Thanks again!
much love!
LJ

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 1 reply

A rose by any other name........

jordana_bint_zweena — Tue, 01 May 2007 13:28:52 GMT

I can't believe that I am struggling with a name for my studio!!!!

My original name got kai-bashed and I am meeting to sign the business paperwork this week!!!!

I tried "Global Lotus" but my husband keeps saying "Global Locust"......
"World Fusion" was another name.......but someone reminded me of the Drew Barrymore SNL skit where she is a workout instructor from the 80's......
Its a belly dance studio, but we also have other world dance types......

Any suggestions on where I can go to get some inspiration???

Thanks ladies
XO
LJ
P.S. I don't want to call it Jordana''s.......

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 4 replies

...of my own

Chandra — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 14:23:35 GMT

I know this particular tribe is meant for studio owners, but I signed up because I not only PLAN to open my own studio (but am actually doing it). I've been lurking for a short while, but now that things are moving forward thought I'd speak up.
Read the entry "Ever onward" in my tribes blog
http://people.tribe.net/afc836a4-29e1-43dd-ad9a-f55939fa550a/blog/4e64f666-c20f-4f8d-85a9-1aa8637c5baf

There is sooo much good advice to be found here - and everyone appears to be supportive of each other.
Wonderful!!!

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 0 replies

FCBD General Skills Certification - Sept/07 - Toronto, Canada

audracleopatra — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 15:53:46 GMT

Carolena Nericcio and Megha Gavin teach ATS General Skills Certification workshop Sept 7 through 9th, 2007 in Toronto Canada.

Registration online or by phone
http://www.cleopatrasbazaar.com/product_info.php?cPath=53&products_id=1071
1.800.431.0418

The general skills intensive is a 15 hour course, usually taken at the FCBD studio, with Carolena teaching. With only 20 people in Toronto, you will have Carolena and Megha teaching and coaching. You will receive instruction in anatomy as it applies to dance, music theory, instruction in all FCBD steps and concepts, drills, critique and question and answer time.

In order to attend this workshop, you MUST have prior ATS knowledge either via class, workshop or FCBD instructional dvds. This is a must - not an option. Usually a dvd or in-person assessment is required in order to qualify for registration, but this has been waived for this event. Do not disappoint Carolena or Megha - be well prepared with the material. All volumes of FCBD dvds can be purchased through Cleopatra's Bazaar or directly from FCBD.

Once completed, you will receive a General Skills for ATS certificate. It should be noted that completing this certification does not qualify one to be an authorized ATS teacher.

Also included in the registration are gourmet catered vegetarian lunches each day, water and juice for all participants.

Please bring finger cymbals

Class schedule:
Fri-Sat-Sun
Registration & warm up 9:30-10 am
Class 10 am - 12:30 pm
Lunch 12:30 - 1:30 pm
Class 1:30 to 4 pm

There is no show for this event

Cost $730 CAD or $631.45 USD

Workshop registration is NON REFUNDABLE

http://www.cleopatrasbazaar.com
Online bellydance supplies and events

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 0 replies

Changes for 2007

Sabeya — Tue, 02 Jan 2007 06:24:56 GMT

Happy New Year everyone!

Since it is traditional to make resolutions at the end of the year, is anyone here planning to make changes/resolutions for 2007 to ensure more success to running your dance studio?
I have decided to update my whole business plan.

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 1 reply

Who I am...who are you?

romdeussen — Thu, 07 Dec 2006 20:09:25 GMT

Just a quick intro! I'm Rom Deussen (www.romdeussen.com), I own Rom Deussen Studio. I moved the Studio to Utah in early 2006, but before that I was in the DC metro area. I teach Am. Cab mostly, with specialty classes in tribal fusion and Romani, wings, and double veil. The studio is in my home, specially built, b/c in this conservative area, no one would rent me a space...so now me, the students, the boa, and the costumes have plenty of room! :)

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 13 replies

What to do first?

zaheea — Wed, 20 Dec 2006 22:56:23 GMT

Hi everyone!
My friend and I want to open a belly/yoga/pilates studio.
I've made an appointment with SCORE (free counceling for small businesses) to get an idea
of what to do first.
What did YOU do first (ie. scout locations, get a loan, etc)?

Also, have any of you recieved a grant to start up? There is no way my friend and I have the $$ to
start up the studio so we will need to either take out a loan or possibly apply for grants.
It's all so new and confusing!

~Zaheea

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 1 reply

Bring in the Money

crystaldunlap — Thu, 07 Dec 2006 20:57:37 GMT

On top of offer classes what kinds of things can you use your space for to bring money into the studio.

We currently host a monthly workshop and a month hafla to bring some extra cash.

Anybody else got idea?

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 5 replies

Studio software

Sabeya — Thu, 07 Dec 2006 16:13:53 GMT

What software do you use to keep your students data and the studio running efficiently?

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 2 replies

I am my own first member!

crystaldunlap — Thu, 07 Dec 2006 03:53:53 GMT

Weeeeee

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 3 replies

Topic idea

crystaldunlap — Thu, 07 Dec 2006 03:58:47 GMT

Free or inexpencive advertising

How to keep your studio from burning down when you are not there?

Developing a dependable staff

you know stuff like that

posted in Dance Studio Owners - 0 replies