The holidays are just around the corner, and with them brings the joy of time with loved ones, new experiences, and, usually, some form of gift giving!
Whether it’s a holiday gift, mark of an achievement, or just a general token of appreciation, gift giving can sometimes be tricky. So, this year, why not lean into what you know those around you love? For so many of us, that’s dance, and trust us, the gift ideas are ENDLESS when you start thinking, providing the perfect opportunity to get your loved ones something unexpected that they’re guaranteed to enjoy.
We’ve created a list of our favourite gifts for dancers of all ages, dance styles, and ability levels (including inspiring!), but feel free to share any others you come up with on our social media by clicking here.
1. Dance Class Vouchers
We’re starting off strong with this first one, because it’s not just the perfect gift for dancers, but anyone! With dance classes, you are giving the gift of health, both physically and mentally. Don’t believe us? Read this blog on the benefits of dancing for mental health, or this blog on dance as a fitness technique, and tell us that it isn't a gift everyone would want.
But let’s focus on why a dance class voucher is the perfect gift for dancers.
First of all, it’s versatile. A voucher can be used to explore a new dance style someone is considering starting, pay for a friend to join them to have an extra fun night of dancing, or just take some pressure off of the cost of the dance classes they already do!
Secondly, less pressure. When you gift experiences, they’re usually booked, adding to the busy calendar we already find ourselves with in this time of the year. A gift voucher is ready to be used whenever the recipient is, giving them the added gift of choice!
Finally, they’re a one-size-fits-all. Why stop at gifting just one person a voucher? Get your entire gift list done in one swift purchase to save yourself the time and money going in-store requires. Also, gifting a group of people a dance voucher, whether that’s your family or friends, makes the gift even more special, creating a fun experience you can all partake in and rave about for years to come!
Check out our website to see the classes and vouchers we offer (by clicking ‘book now’), or get in touch if you'd like to choose your own $$ amount.
2. Dance Gear
Every dancer knows that the right gear can make all the difference, especially when you get into competitive dancing. Whether you’re thinking about specific dance apparel, specialised footwear like heels, or even a bag exclusively for dance, it’s always nice to have someone help with the necessities, allowing the dancers to do what they’re meant to do – dance!
Talk to the dancer’s in your life about what dance gear they need coming up, or if they’re really close to you, note what gear they’ve had for a while and consider getting a replacement. Fresh gear can make you feel like a completely different person.
For an in-depth guide on latin dance shoes, read this blog. It covers the materials dancer’s should be looking for, store recommendations in New Zealand, and even tips on heel height!
Or check out our complete resource guide with dance shoes, costumes, photography and many other recommendations related to dancing. One amazing company on there that we recommend is A&M Dance Wardrobe. It has excellent shoes, practice wear, and you can get custom made gowns and tail suits for competitions! Click here to check A&M Dance Wardrobe out.
For those loyal dancers, buy personalised items such as custom dancewear with names and/or studio logos. These could be items they use when dancing, or even not, so they can represent the work and found family they’re proud of beyond the studio! An example of this idea could be a custom jumper or water bottle.
3. Inspirational Stories
For many of us, when we have a passion, we like to bring it into every aspect of our life! For dancers, that includes watching dance-related content and shows, and reading books about dancing. This gift idea is based on the latter point.
Books can be an excellent source of inspiration and knowledge. Try looking for instructional books that focus on specific techniques or choreography to help the dancer in your life improve, such as Dance Anatomy by Jacqui Greene Haas. This book is an incredible illustrated guide to improving flexibility, reducing injury, and enhancing strength, all crucial to all dancers, seasoned or aspiring!
Biographies of famous dancers or books detailing the history of dance can also be amazing sources of inspiration, letting dancers return to the world of dance outside of their studio. Some recommendations are The Wicked Waltz and Other Scandalous Dances: Outrage at Couple Dancing in the 19th and Early 20th Centuries by Mark Knowles, I Was a Dancer by Jacques D'Amboise, and Everything I Learned About Sales and Success I Learned on the Ballroom Dance Floor by Tyler Hershberger.
4. Technology
We live in a world of amazing electronic gadgets, so how could we not include one on our list? Especially when some are so perfect for dedicated dancers!
Our highest recommended technology is a wearable fitness tracker. These usually act like watches, and can help monitor progress and set goals, as well as prevent injuries from overexertion, prolonging a dancer’s career. Some even come with a specific ballroom dance workout tracker, measuring heart rate, calories burnt, and the length of a dance session!
Check out this ‘dancing Fitbit community’ or this ‘Samsung Galaxy watch community’ to start your research into this gift idea.
Finding the perfect gift for a dance lover is so easy! Whether it’s a class voucher, stylish gear, or a unique experience, the right gift can further their passion and show your support for their dance journey. Perhaps try to combine a few ideas for a truly thoughtful present! Happy Dancing!