Passion Makes It Possible - Caledonia Studio of Dance
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in dance education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tiffany Beveridge, Owner, and Director of Caledonia Studio of Dance, located in Caledonia, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I have owned and operated a Dance Studio in Caledonia, Ontario, since 2009, servicing families with dance classes for kids aged 2yrs and above. In 2020 we added a toddler play center that is attached to our studio for children aged five and under. Playland is a combination of preschool play equipment and sensory toys to engage young explorers while they learn through play.
Tell us about yourself
I began dancing myself at age three and fell in love with the sport. I became a competitive dancer and went on to dance professionally after high school, being lucky enough to travel and dance in the US and in Italy. My love of teaching dance ultimately brought me back home, where I got the opportunity to purchase a dance studio I was previously employed at. Teaching dance is such a fulfilling career, and I am so lucky to be a part of so many wonderful children's lives. It is a blessing to watch them grow up in the studio and go on to follow their own dreams.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would say my biggest accomplishment as a business owner is to watch my students be successful in the industry. I have had many students go on to be in movies with A-list actors, star in Television shows, dance for a professional sports team, star in commercials... There is nothing greater than knowing that their passion for the industry began within the walls of the dance studio.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing about being a studio owner is separating the fun of teaching dance from running the business side of the studio. In the beginning, I tried to do it all, but it left me burnt out and stressed. Since then, I have learned to delegate tasks that are not my strong suit and focus only on my areas of expertise.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Listen to advice from loved ones but ultimately do what feels right within you. Many people won't understand or see your vision right away and may cut down your ideas out of fear of protecting you.
- You won't know until you try. Do not let fear hold you back from pursuing your dreams.
- Never stop learning about your industry. Take classes, listen to podcasts, and find a mentor in your field. Consume yourself in your passion, and it will never feel like work.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I have always known that I would be in business, even since I was a young child. I was more excited to buy office supplies than school clothes and spent the majority of my high school year in the business wing at school. I consider myself very lucky that I was able to turn my passion for dance into a career, and I am so grateful that I get to share that love with all of my students.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.caledoniadance.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caledoniadance/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caledoniadance/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.