What Happens When You Build a Dance Studio with Your Childhood Bestie?

What do you get when two childhood besties grow up, buy a studio, and decide to make it truly their own?

A rebrand that isn’t just about a new logo - but about reclaiming identity, building community, and showing up with heart.

In this week’s podcast episode, Bec sat down with Chloe and Kirralee from KICO Dance Studios, and honestly? It was one of those chats that makes you feel both teary and fired-up all at once.

Here’s what we loved most about their story - and what every studio owner can learn from it.

Buying a Studio at 23 (During a Pandemic)

Let’s rewind a bit.

Chloe and Kirralee bought their studio in late 2021- during the thick of COVID - and hadn’t even taught there before. Their first introduction to students? Zoom classes.

They were in their early twenties, juggling full-time uni and teaching, and figuring it out on the fly. But they weren’t afraid to ask for help. They joined Studio Growth Club early on, leaned into learning, and got clear on who they were as leaders.

“We always knew we’d want to rebrand,” they shared, “but we waited until we really understood the space and community first.”

The Rebrand That Felt Like Them

Fast forward three years, and their studio transformation is nothing short of amazing.

From blue and white to pink and orange. From The Bloc Dance Academy to KICO Dance Studios. From inherited identity to something that feels totally theirs.

But what really made it special was how intentional the whole process was:

They created a Pinterest board to map out the feeling they wanted people to have when walking in.

They announced the change at their concert via a video that showed their own dance roots and studio dreams.

They included confetti cannons, banners, merch, matching joggers, and subtle hints that got kids and parents buzzing.

Their space was renovated, painted, and completely refreshed - every detail chosen with love.

It wasn’t just a new name. It was a declaration: This is who we are now.

The Power of Time-Blocking

You don’t grow a vibrant, high-touch studio without systems - and Chloe and Kirralee are serious about theirs.

They shared how they time-block their week using a giant whiteboard to manage everything from marketing to admin to team communication.

Mondays are non-negotiable: Chloe schedules all their social posts and reels, while Kiralee drafts emails and family updates. They've even trained their staff to time-block too.

They’re honest about the fact that not every week is perfect (hello, concert season!), but what matters is the reset.

Their studio motto?
“Rinse, repeat, and do better.”

How good is that?

Making Social Media Fun (and Sustainable)

If you’ve ever looked at a studio’s Instagram and thought, “How do they post so much?!” - KICO is one to watch.

But Chloe makes it clear: she doesn’t treat it like a chore.

“I actually enjoy it,” she said. “We’re in class all the time, so the content is endless. And the kids love being in videos - it’s just part of our rhythm now.”

They focus on quick, authentic content. They use what they’ve got. And they prioritise consistency over perfection.

This mindset shift - treating social as a fun, creative outlet instead of a task - is a game-changer for so many studio owners.

Friendship at the Core

Perhaps the most beautiful part of their story? Chloe and Kirralee’s friendship.

They met as kids, became duo partners, spent weekends riding bikes to each other’s houses, and now co-run a business together with total trust and love.

They’ve created something rare: a working relationship that’s equal parts sisterhood and strategy.

“If one of us is having a tough day, the other just steps in,” they shared. “We know each other that well.”

This depth of connection shows up in their leadership, their teaching, and the culture they’re building.

A Preschool Program That’s Booming

This year, they separated their preschool concert from the main showcase - and it was a massive win.

Not only did parents love the shorter, local event, but it gave their youngest dancers a chance to shine in a calm, age-appropriate space. With 80 preschoolers enrolled (up from just 25 when they started), it’s clear their approach is working.

And it’s not just about numbers. They’ve built a team that loves being involved, with older students mentoring younger ones, and apprentice teachers stepping up in big ways.

It’s the kind of studio where kids feel safe, supported, and seen. And that matters.

Studio Culture, Community, and Presence

At the heart of everything Kiko does is connection.

They’ve created a studio where families hang around to chat. Where teachers don’t just clock in and out—they show up. Where students make the kinds of friendships that last decades.

And Chloe and Kiralee are still there, front and centre. Teaching, cheering kids on, wiping tears, and being deeply present.

That presence is noticed. And it’s why their families stay.

Lessons Worth Sharing

So, what can we all take from Chloe and Kirralee’s journey?

Here’s what stood out:

Wait until the rebrand feels right - then go all in.

Consistency over chaos - time-blocking works.

Do what brings you joy - especially with marketing.

Build a team that reflects your values - not just your skills list.

Be present, be seen, be human. It’s the secret to everything.

And most importantly? Trust your gut. Lead with heart. And don’t be afraid to do things your own way - even if you’re young, new, or still figuring it out.

Feeling inspired?

Come hang out with Chloe, Kirralee, and studio owners just like them inside the Dance Principles United Tribe.

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