October is in full swing! We have auditions, costumes, and production themes on our mind here...how about you? From Halloween to the holiday performances to looking ahead for our 2010 events it's all very exciting.

Many of the industry events, including UDMA: United Dance Merchants of America Conferences are happening now which helps grow the enthusiasm of costuming and the trends to look for this season.

In talking with dance studio owners I have a renewed appreciation every year of the unique artistic process that it takes to bring their productions to life. Some choose a theme first then pick music and finally the costumes...others say it's the choreography that draws out the right costumes. It can even be a backdrop that makes everything come alive.

However you get inspired, whatever you do to pick the best costumes, music and more for your pieces, it's one of the most creative parts of owning and running a dance studio. Liks us, you probably do alot of business with the vendors that provide exactly what you need each year.

What I'm especially excited about this season is that with social networking you can interact with the vendors online and some of these companies are doing a great job answering questions, sharing ideas, and even letting fans know when information is coming up and specials as well.

This week's tip: When you connect, ask questions, post comments and engage with the vendors you do business with via social networking it is a great way to make a connection that goes beyond being a customer. Likewise the vendors and companies that have a social networking presence want and enjoy interacting with you. This creates an experience for everyone that adds value.

We'd love to connect with you on our Dance Studio Owner Fan Page. Let us know how we can help connect you with your favorite vendors, post questions...and of course share your suggestions with us too. http://www.facebook.com/DanceStudioOwner

DOWNLOAD: First Position Coloring Page

Next week we're releasing five new holiday coloring pages for our members including Halloween, Thanksgiving, Nutcracker Ballet, Jingle Bells and Winter Wonderland.

As a tip of the week reader you can enjoy this complimentary download to use in your classes as an educational tool. This page reinforces the basics of ballet technique in a fun, whimsical and enjoyable way.

Download a complimentary First Position page here == > http://www.dancestudioowner.com/public/252.cfm

VIDEO: How to Create a Facebook Fan Page for Your Dance Studio, A Two-Part Step-by-Step Tutorial

A Facebook Fan Page, otherwise known as a Page is a great way for you to post announcements, connect with current and potential students, and encourage social networking with your students and parents in a positive way where you can control the content.

This two-part video tutorial will show you step-by-step how to set up your page. http://www.dancestudioowner.com/members/448.cfm

VIDEO: Sir Ken Robinson: Do schools kill creativity?

I'm inspired by this 20-minute video from the TED conference by Sir Ken Robinson: Do schools kill creativity? The last 5 minutes tell the amazing story of Gillian Lynne, who is famous for her choreography of the Broadway show Cats and Phantom of the Opera.

Give yourself the gift of 20 minutes to watch, it may be some extra inspiration for you today and remind you that every dance class taught, every student you help develop, and each day you stand for creativity helps make the world a better place. You do make a difference.

Enjoy the video here: http://snipurl.com/eqnmh