Three Things I’ve Learned from Owning a Dance Studio for 21 Years

Owning a dance studio has been one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences of my life. Over the past 21 years, I’ve grown not only as a business owner but also as a leader, mentor, and person. While there have been countless lessons along the way, there are three that stand out as truly transformative.

1. You Cannot Please Everyone

When I first opened my dance studio, I spent far too much time worrying about what everyone else thought—whether it was parents, students, or even the competition. I tried to cater to every opinion and meet every expectation, but I quickly learned that this was an impossible task. The reality is that you cannot please everyone, and trying to do so can lead to burnout and frustration.

The turning point for me came when I realized that I needed to stay true to my vision and values. Once I started focusing on what made my studio unique and what I wanted to offer, the right people started coming. My advice? Be authentic, stay true to your mission, and trust that your people—those who resonate with your vision—will find you.

2. Don’t Underprice Yourself in the Market

For many years, I was the cheapest studio in the area, believing that lower prices would attract more students. While this approach worked for a while, it ultimately put me in a difficult position when inflation hit, and costs began to rise. I found myself struggling to maintain the quality of our programs without increasing prices, which led to financial stress.

I’ve since learned the importance of regularly conducting market analysis to ensure that my pricing is in line with the value we provide. It’s crucial to recognize your worth and price your services accordingly. Not only does this help sustain your business, but it also reinforces the value of what you offer to your students and their families.

3. Treat Your Employees Well

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that your employees are the backbone of your business. Early on, I focused primarily on the students and their parents, thinking they were the primary clients. While students are indeed the heart of our studio, I’ve come to realize that the key to a successful business lies in how you treat your staff.

When your employees feel valued and appreciated, it creates a positive, energetic environment that permeates every aspect of the studio. Happy, motivated staff members are more likely to go the extra mile for their students, which in turn creates a better experience for everyone involved. Fostering a supportive and respectful workplace culture has not only helped my business flourish but has also strengthened the bonds within our dance community.

Final Thoughts

Being a business owner is not easy—there are highs and lows, and the journey is filled with challenges. However, the lessons I’ve learned over the past 21 years have made me a better boss, leader, and person. By staying true to my vision, recognizing my worth, and valuing my employees, I’ve been able to build a thriving dance studio that I’m incredibly proud of.

To all the aspiring studio owners out there: embrace the journey, learn from your experiences, and remember that the key to success lies in staying true to yourself and those who believe in your vision.

Always here to help in any way! Reach out to me at jessica@dancemovesofcharleston.com