How to Start Dance Studios

If you have a passion for dance and are interested in opening your own dance studio, it can be a rewarding and successful experience given the right preparations and business plan. You must focus on the business and financial aspect before opening your doors to the public to have a successful dance studio.

• Go through the steps to become a certified dance instructor. You will probably be handling much of the teaching yourself, especially in the beginning, so becoming a certified instructor should be one of the first things you do. Going through the certification process also gives you an idea of what is expected of you as an instructor.


• Create a business plan that outlines how you will get the dance studio started as well as other details such as how many instructors you will need, what classes to offer, what fees you will charge for each class, how to market your studio when it is open and an extensive overview of the financial side.


• Go over your current finances after making your business plan to decide how much start up capital you will need and whether a business loan is required. You may need to pay fees to obtain your business license. You will need to put down a deposit and make monthly payments on the studio space. You will also spend money on equipment for the studio, payroll for any instructors and other fees associated with opening a dance studio.


• Obtain a business license for your studio, and acquire the proper insurance. Contact your local small business bureau for more information on how to get a business license and what kind of insurance is required for a dance studio. 


• Choose a quiet, safe location for your dance studio that is near schools and other businesses but not too close to other dance studios. Finding a location near new housing developments can help with obtaining new dancers for your studio.


• Find a reputable dance supply company for costumes and dance shoes as well as a company that will supply equipment for your studio, such as furniture for the office and reception area, mirrors for the walls, ballet bars, lockers and any other equipment you plan to have.


• Get the word out about your studio, and entice dancers to join by offering free classes for children and adults to try it out before committing. Offer specials such as sign-up bonuses or group discounts.