From California to Oregon, two dance retail duos reflect on building businesses rooted in trust, care, and generational knowledge.
Author: Erica Iacono
Rose Kirshner has always been driven by one passion: dance. It fueled her early education, shaped her professional performing career, and ultimately led her to own two dance stores in the San Francisco area. From Dancer to Store Owner Kirshner’s path to business ownership is a familiar one in the dance community. She began dancing at the age of 4 with the Berkeley Ballet and later studied dance at Cornish College of the Arts at Seattle University. After graduating, she returned to the Bay Area and performed with several smaller professional companies, most recently No Strings Attached Dance Company directed…
Dance retailers experience several busy seasons throughout the year, including the “back to dance” rush and the lead-up to summer intensives. Just as important, however, is the start of fall and winter holiday shopping season. During this time, there’s a powerful trifecta of sales opportunities: Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday. Bob Phibbs, CEO of The Retail Doctor, says that it’s important for small businesses to recognize the value of these shopping days and not assume that they’re only for big-box retailers. “It’s the kickoff to the holiday season,” he tells DRN. “So any day that you can…
As dancers voice frustration over lululemon’s discount program, independent retailers and dance brands have an opportunity to highlight their expertise and strong community ties.
Three professional dancers share how their experience onstage informs their approach to fitting pointe shoes—and why that firsthand knowledge makes all the difference.
Creating welcoming spaces, offering inclusive dancewear options, and challenging traditional gender norms are central to how dance retailers support LGBTQ+ dancers year-round.
The rising demand for training aids presents an opportunity to support dancers and expand product offerings.
Virtual pointe shoe fittings are becoming an essential service for retailers, offering personalized care to dancers who may otherwise lack access to the right footwear.
Kristin Ruggieri founded Attitude Dance & Activewear in Norwalk, CT, in 2004. Now one of the go-to dance stores in town, she credits her business’ success to her background in dance performance and education, a strong support system, and dedicated employees.
Dancer-turned-entrepreneur Victoria Lyman Guimarães has built a retail business that supports the dance community. Here’s how she balances the brand’s international growth and her personal life.