The new season is rolling, and, in a corner, you likely have a growing stack of costume catalogs. When determining your studio’s costumes for this year’s performances, keep the following 10 tips in mind:
- Culture: Make sure your costumes fit into the culture and vibe of your studio. Whether you make the costume choices or you allow input from staff members, know that a cohesive look that reflects your brand is necessary in perpetuating your studio’s vision and reputation.
- Consistency: In order to avoid sizing issues, implement a system that works for your studio for measurements, size translations, and orders. Communicate the standards and expectations in advance to make sure everyone is working together towards success!
- Preview: Know your order. Take the time to visit a costume preview or trunk show. It is important to know that you can confidently back the product you are purchasing for your clients.
- Perks: Compare the benefits of purchasing from varying costume companies. Consider their discount structure, customer service, packing options, and shipping guarantees. Pick a company that will fulfill the needs of your studio and exceed your expectations.
- Payment: Only order costumes that are paid in full by the payment due date (unless the family has made a special arrangement).
- Details: Check and re-check (and re-check again) your order. When purchasing in bulk, it is easy to make errors. Implement several checkpoints to guarantee all costumes are ordered for students and classes.
- Excitement: Once your costumes are selected, make a display to build excitement with your clients!
- Sort: In sorting costumes, be thorough and detailed. Make sure every piece of every costume arrives and is appropriately labeled.
- Presentation: Present the costumes with polish and prestige to the students and parents. The garment bags are a great asset- we include tights, so we include the tights in the garment bag, too. This allows each routine to be “fully costumed” in one bag, making it super easy for the parents!
- Have fun: Costuming is fun, but if the process is not organized, it can be a stressful headache. Start early, plan ahead, and be prepared! Your end product will be amazing!
