First time here?
Welcome to DYOS!
Here's a simple guide to help you feel prepared if it's your first time coming to a DYOS event:
Before the event
STEP 2
Find which classes are best for you
We offer four different classes, each designed to challenge dancers of different skill levels. Take a look at the classes and see which ones might be best for you.
STEP 3
Review our Code of Conduct
At Do Your Own Swing, safety and inclusion stands at the center of everything we do. Please help us uphold our vision by familiarizing yourself with our Code of Conduct.
When you arrive
STEP 1
Check in
Check in at the DYOS station at the front desk of Studio M. They will confirm you're registered and collect payment. For payment, we currently accept cash, Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal. High filtration masks are required for class, but if you don't have one, a mask can be purchased from the front desk for $1. Masks are optional, but encouraged during the social.
STEP 2
Gear up
Just past the entrance, there's a station to optionally grab the following:
Name tags
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you can write your preferred name, pronouns, and have the option of adding a mask sticker to your nametag if you wish for others to keep a mask on when dancing with you.
Color-coded wristbands
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these indicate your preferred role(s) in the dance.
Pride stickers
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we are a 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming space and welcome the opportunity to express our pride!
Mints
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You may be dancing in close proximity to others, so be considerate of your hygiene.
STEP 3
Start dancing!
Proceed to your selected DYOS class/event. Please note the studio has multiple rooms and DYOS shares this space with other non-DYOS dancers. If you are unsure where to go, check with the front desk and they can point you in the right direction.
Newcomer FAQs
No partner required! During class, we rotate partners often, so you will get to dance with many different people.
We don't require a specific uniform; just be clean and respectful. Most of our dancers dress casually - a nice shirt (t-shirt or button down) and long pants or jeans are typical. A good rule of thumb is to choose clothing and shoes that are 1) easy to move around in and 2) make you feel comfortable and confident. This is a safe space to express who you are. If you tend to sweat, it's ok and encouraged to bring a change of clothes and deodorant.
You can choose either - it is not affiliated with gender and is up to your preference! The leader is responsible for initiating movement, and the follower's role is to maintain the movement. It's totally acceptable to start learning one role, then switch to the other. In fact, many of our dancers learn to dance both!
Social dancing is an informal, non-competitive time to dance and socialize with others. Navigating the social dance floor can be intimidating, but here are a few tips:
You can select a color-coded wristband at the entrance to indicate your preference to lead, follow, both, or observe during social dance time.
You may ask and be asked to dance. Anyone can ask anyone, regardless of gender or experience. If you are asked to dance but don't wish to dance at that time, you have the right to say no without explanation, and should respect if others decline your request.
Be mindful of space - the dance floor can get crowded and we want everyone to stay safe and avoid collisions with other dancers. Leaders should especially be aware of the space and not lead their follower into anyone.
Be kind and be sure to thank your partner afterward.
DYOS