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Getting Started

Getting Started Checklist for Studios

A practical checklist for setting up a new studio workspace in DanceFlow.

Overview

This checklist helps a new studio get ready to use DanceFlow for daily operations.

You do not need to complete everything at once. Start with the basics, then add packages, memberships, and portal access as your studio grows into the system.

Step 1: Start your studio trial

Choose a studio plan and begin your free trial.

After your trial starts, your studio workspace will become available inside the app.

Step 2: Complete your public profile

Your public profile controls how your studio appears in DanceFlow discovery.

Add:

  • Studio name
  • Public description
  • Location
  • Contact information
  • Website or social links
  • Photos, if available

A strong public profile helps dancers understand who you are and how to connect with you.

Step 3: Import your existing client list, if applicable

If you already have clients in another system or spreadsheet, use the import tool to upload them into DanceFlow.

Go to Settings > Import.

Upload your client CSV, review the file for errors, fix any flagged rows, then execute the import. After the import runs, confirm the clients appear on the Clients page.

Skip this step if you are starting fresh or prefer to add clients manually.

Step 4: Add instructors

Add instructors who can be scheduled for lessons or classes.

Studio owners can also be instructors. If the owner teaches, they should have an instructor profile so they can be booked on the schedule.

Step 5: Add rooms or floor spaces

Rooms help your studio organize scheduling and availability.

You can create rooms for:

  • Private lesson rooms
  • Ballrooms
  • Practice floors
  • Rental spaces
  • General floor areas

Rooms can also be blocked when they are unavailable.

Step 6: Add clients

Add current clients to your CRM.

At minimum, enter:

  • First name
  • Last name
  • Email
  • Phone number, if available

Clients can later be linked to portal access so they can view relevant information.

Step 7: Create package templates

Package templates make it faster to sell lessons, group classes, or party credits.

Examples:

  • 5 private lessons
  • 10 private lessons
  • New student intro package
  • Group class bundle
  • Practice party bundle
  • Mixed package with lessons, groups, and parties

Step 8: Create membership plans

Memberships are useful for recurring revenue.

Examples:

  • Monthly group class membership
  • Practice membership
  • Lesson discount membership
  • Floor rental discount membership

Step 9: Connect billing and payouts

If your studio will collect online payments, connect Stripe payouts before taking paid registrations or online payments.

This allows your studio to receive funds properly.

Step 10: Start scheduling

Once instructors, clients, and rooms are set up, begin creating appointments.

You can schedule:

  • Private lessons
  • Floor rentals
  • Room blocks
  • Other studio appointments

Step 11: Review reports and payments

Use reports and client payment history to monitor activity, revenue, packages, and balances.