Policies & Etiquette
We are a supportive and safe environment for sensual movement and exploration. All of our policies ensure safety for all students as well accessibility to our small group classes.
Studio Culture & Conduct
All genders, fitness levels, and ages 18+ are welcome. No dance experience required.
Absolutely no drugs or alcohol usage before or during class.
At Essence, we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all students to learn and express themselves through dance. As part of this commitment, we have a zero tolerance policy for bullying, harassment, and cyberbullying of other students, both within and outside the studio premises.
Signing Up for Classes
Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to get checked in and settled for class. Students who arrive 10 minutes or more late will forgo the opportunity to take class.
We prioritize an intimate, small group setting with limited spots per class. There is a 7hr cancellation policy for all Pole & Sensual Movement classes and a 2hr cancellation policy for all MatWerk classes. If you do not cancel before the cancellation window, you will lose your class credit. No refunds.
Classes require a 2-student minimum. If 2 students do not sign up for a class 2 hours before the class is to begin, the class will be canceled and students will receive their credits back.
In the event of inclement weather, class cancellations will be announced at least 2 hours prior to the scheduled class time.
5 Class Packages expire 90 days after the date of purchase. No exceptions.
8 Class Packages expire 150 days after the date of purchase. No exceptions.
No refunds or partial refunds. No exceptions.
Class Etiquette
Remove your rings, bracelets, and/or watches before class.
Students are welcome to film their movements IF and ONLY IF their peers feel comfortable with a camera present. Essence is a safe space for self-expression. Honor and protect it. Simply ask your neighbors for permission to film and ENSURE you have permission before posting the content on social media. Filming of any student or staff member is prohibited without consent.
Students will not spot or instruct other students.
Instructor permission is required for each student’s advancement into a higher-level class. Please ask us if you feel you’re ready.
To protect the privacy and comfort of our students, observers are not permitted during class.
Students enrolled in a class are expected to participate; signing up to observe is not permitted.
Heels are to not be worn on crash mats.
Students will adhere to the class material provided in class unless otherwise permissioned by an instructor. This also applies to free time provided in class, and after class has been dismissed.
Students will not spot or instruct other students.
Students will not perform tricks or skills that they have not learned from an Essence instructor.
Students are expected to follow their instructor’s guidance. Any feedback provided is given with your safety, progress, and best interests in mind.
All students will wipe down their equipment after use.
By enrolling in classes at Essence, students agree to abide by our studio policies and contribute to creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all members of our community. Policies are enforced on a case-by-case basis, and violations of zero-tolerance policies may result in expulsion from the studio. Click here to view our complete list of studio policies.