When your friend says, “Would you like to be my guest at a dance party,” the proper response is, “Of course, I’d love to.” Who doesn’t like a party, especially when you’re an honored guest? Here’s the low-down on ballroom dance studio Guest Programs and what you can do to be a part of them.

What’s a Guest Party?

A Guest Party is a dance party at a ballroom dance studio. It usually begins with a lesson for the guests, followed by dancing, some dance demonstrations, snacks, and refreshments. 

Because it’s a marketing device, a Guest Party will certainly include an offer for potential new students. The offering is usually a free or discounted lesson.

For more on this, read Dance Safari’s post, “How to Check Out a Ballroom Dance Studio“. And, in case you aren’t sure you want to go to a party, spend a minute with this post, “Work Hard, Play Hard: Why Partying is Healthy“. (Especially if it includes a dance workout!)

The importance of the Guest Program can’t be overstated.

All businesses need new customers to grow. And, of course, a happy customer is the best advertisement. Your students will be proud to share the studio with friends, family, and acquaintances.

There are many reasons to have a referral program.

• Because student testimonials are the most effective way to get new business, a studio owner saves money on advertising. 
• Instructors earn money by teaching lessons. Perhaps your beloved teacher had students graduate and now he or she needs new students to stay busy. If this is the case, you’ll want to help by inviting new people.
• Students are proud of their studio and how much they’ve learned.  For this reason, bringing someone in as a guest lets them show off a bit.
• Lots of times the student’s incentive is the possibility of earning free or discounted private lessons if their guest decides to take advantage of the special offer.
• Finally, sometimes a guest serves as the student’s admission to a guest party. If this is the case, bringing a guest will allow the student to attend. Thus, they’ll get an extra party to enjoy as they practice their dancing.  

Are there any requirements to be a guest?

A qualified guest is a person who is new to the studio. He or she must be 18 years or older and a local resident.

Although we like to think the studio is hosting this affair just to be nice, the fact is it’s for them to keep growing. Because of this, these parties have to produce viable prospects.

Where and when will a studio have a party?

The Guest Party will be held at the studio. It’s kind of like having an Open House when you’re trying to sell your home. Interested people will come to see if it’s a good fit for them.

Because you’re having company, the studio must be clean and welcoming for potential new customers. Not only that, but good customer service is definitely on the menu.

Although many studios will have dedicated guest parties in addition to their regular practice parties, a student can make a referral any time and get credit for it. 

For example, sometimes the date and time of the party are inconvenient for your friends. If this is the case, they usually have a couple of options.

1. They may be permitted to attend a regular practice party. Although this party isn’t geared toward beginners, it still presents a great opportunity to check out the studio.
2. The guest can sign up for their special deal without attending a party. Just don’t forget to let the studio know who referred you so they can get their credit.

It’s so important to spread the gospel of ballroom dancing to as many people as we can. Studio owners, instructors, and administrative employees all appreciate your effort. You, the student can make a difference in the success of your studio. Believe it and reap the rewards.