We’ve gotten feedback that many teachers would like to learn more about teaching yoga on their own (and do less teaching for someone else’s studio). But…buying the gear that’s needed can be a roadblock.
Maybe you need to buy mats, blocks, straps, bolsters, blankets, towels, or even a set of bluetooth speakers or other misc. equipment.
It can be hard to pay for it all up front! We’re not a fan of debt, so we try to avoid it when possible. We used a variety of these methods both when we had a studio (before Kristen moved and we closed it down) and when she launched her own offerings in her new town, so we know they work.
Below are 5 ways to raise money to purchase gear and start teaching yoga on your own terms!
Idea #1: Donation based pop-up classes
Run a pop-up class somewhere and make the entry fee the piece of gear that you’re needing! So if you need blocks, put the word out that you’re doing a pop-up class and the entry fee is to donate a block (or they can donate a specified amount so you can buy a block). People love to give, especially when they know it’s for something specific.
Idea #2: Run a series
Run a series (3 or 4 closed classes) to raise funds to purchase the gear, and design the series to make use of the gear. Call it a “learn how to use props” series, and charge enough to cover the cost of purchasing the props you need (and cover any expenses, like rent).
Students pay upfront, and specify that after a certain date, the fee is non-refundable because you have to buy the gear to use in the series. This could provide you with all the props you’d need for future classes and series!
Or if you’re only needing bolsters, for instance, run a restorative series to raise the money to buy bolsters (using the same approach above)!
Let the students know what the purpose of the class or series is, and explain how this investment will have an impact on them and people they don’t even know yet, because it will enable you to create more offerings.
People like knowing that they are giving toward a certain thing, or investing in something beyond themselves.
If the idea of running a series is new to you, stay tuned this next week because we have an exciting announcement to make!
Idea #3: Private yoga sessions
Offer some private yoga sessions at a higher rate than you charge for public offerings. Have them pay upfront and use the money to buy the gear you need.
The sessions could be individual or group sessions. Group sessions are a little more appealing because it’s less awkward than 1:1, and you can charge more (or even offer it for free for whoever provides the venue and invites enough of their friends, charging x amount per person).
Put the word out, and offer a cool experience where you can bring your friends for a private yoga session.
Idea #4: Wedding day bridal party packages
Start reaching out to people you know in the wedding industry (anyone…photographers, planners, etc) or anyone you know who’s getting married, or who has a friend or family member getting married. Tell them you offer a bridal party package (or multiple packages at different rates, crafting the ultimate spa like package at the top for total relaxation) and ask for referrals.
Require payment upfront, with the “non-refundable after [date]” clause, and buy what you need after that date has passed.
Idea #5: Corporate yoga sessions
Start reaching out to businesses in your area and tell them that you’re offering corporate yoga sessions. Tell them you bill monthly and require payment up front, and use that to buy the gear you need.
So there you have it! 5 ways to purchase gear and launch out on your own!
Which idea(s) are you most excited about? Have any other ideas, thoughts, or questions? Drop a comment below!
-Nick
P.S. Want a free meditation script to use in your classes? Head over here and we’ll send you one!