★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been dancing here for almost year now, and feel so welcomed everytime I come. All of the instructors and other students are very encouraging. The environment here is nonjudgemental and uplifting. Very happy, I made the jump of taking a pole class here.

Source: Google

★ 5

This space is absolutely stunning and so welcoming. I regret not starting these classes sooner. Mentally and physically uplifted everytime I finish a class. Thanks ladies!

Source: Google

★ 5

My friend invited me to join her for a beginner’s class, and I’m so glad I said yes. The moment I walked in, I felt a sense of calm and safety. The studio is beautifully decorated and softly lit, creating such a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere.

Our class was small—just a few women—and it felt empowering from the start. There was no pressure, no judgment, and definitely none of the intimidation you might feel walking into a crowded gym. It was a space where we could move, learn, and feel strong together.

Our instructor, Hannah, was amazing—so encouraging, knowledgeable, and fun. Even while managing an injury, she led the class with grace and made everyone feel confident and included.

It was such a fun experience, and I’m already looking forward to coming back!

Source: Google

★ 5

Essence is such a beautiful and comfortable space! The owner, Megan, does a great job at making it a place that everyone can call home. There are so many options of classes to choose from so there's really something for everyone. All of the instructors are so sweet and personable and they make it easy to show up for class.

Source: Google

★ 5

The instructor great and the class was taught at a comfortable pace. I like that the instructors here are helpful, knowledgeable and encouraging.
My confidence in my body and my strength have really grown since I've started taking classes here.

Source: Google

★ 5

Essence is truly one of a kind! From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed and part of the family. Beyond the amazing workout, this class was a serious confidence builder. I left feeling stronger both physically and mentally!

Source: Google

★ 5

Essence is the ideal pole studio! They have the best instructors with the training and skills needed to properly teach you how to do pole moves and do them correctly. Their classes range from trick classes, dance classes, floor work, chair work, stretch & flex, spin & static pole options, various rotating pop up workshops, private lessons and so much more. The studio itself is beautiful, warm and inviting with an indescribable vibe. But the part that truly sets this studio apart is the people! All the instructors and students are so amazing and supportive of each other. I have never felt so instantly welcomed. Their belief in my success is what makes me believe in myself.

Source: Google

★ 5

Essence is simply the best dance studio ever!

Source: Google

★ 5

Pole dancing can be intimidating at first, and it was something I’d always wanted to try, but I was a little shy and unsure if it was for me. That was until one day I decided to give it a go at Essence. From the very first class, all the instructors have been friendly, caring, and meet you where you’re at, no matter your experience level. They always encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and try new moves and combos in a safe way.

The Essence community is also incredibly supportive and welcoming. Fast forward a year later; I absolutely love coming to classes. Each session is a combination of a full workout and dance. To top it all off, the new studio location has a chic, sexy vibe that adds an extra layer of excitement.✨💖

Source: Google

★ 5

I started attending classes at Essence studio a little over a year ago and immediately fell in love with the art and studio all together. The instructors are all knowledgeable in their own unique ways and really work with each individual student at their comfort level. No matter what your background or experience is, they will help guide you through every step so you leave each class feeling confident, sexy, strong, and accomplished. The owner is extremely communicative and accommodating (not to mention a very talented and amazing businesswoman). The other students vary in age, body type, and experience level and are nothing but encouraging and supportive creating an atmosphere of acceptance and empowerment. The instructors all work together and communicate with you about when you are ready to move up in levels to ensure you feel confident and safe to do so. The pricing is unmatched, especially for the location and the studio itself has immaculate vibes that put you right at home. I grew up dancing and as an adult really struggled to find anything that compared to the feeling I got from dancing until I found Essence. Pole dance is definitely different than what I grew up doing in terms of the tricks and incorporating the pole but the thrill of old feelings meeting a new challenge has brought me so much to look forward to each week. I genuinely feel like I am part of a studio again in the best way and I could not recommend Essence enough! Its time to do something just for you so get to it, see you in class!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this studio! I was a dancer when I was younger and had been itching to get back into dance as an adult. It was tricky finding a place that made me feel comfortable in my now very different body, was located near me, and had flexible class scheduling. I took my first intro to pole class and I was hooked! I’m only 3 months in and I have gained confidence and some muscle 😉. Essence was everything I hoped for! Plus their brand new studio just brings it to the next level. If you were on the fence about giving it a try, this is your sign to DO IT!

Source: Google

★ 5

Essence is such a warm and welcoming place. As a plus sized person, I was worried about not being accepted into this community. I was so WRONG. Everyone at Essence has not only accepted me into this beautiful community, but also has made me a part of their family. I highly recommend coming to Essence, even if you are nervous, you will gain strength, confidence, and friends who support your journey!

Source: Google

★ 5

Essence is such a great place to come and feel beautiful and strong. From the instructors to the students, everyone is welcoming and they hype each other up. The studio offers a variety of classes and times throughout the week and they even do amazing jobs with Bachelorette parties. The new location is so beautiful, would definitely recommend this for anyone who wants to try something new, it’s a great place for beginners with no dance or pole experience!

Source: Google

★ 5

Went for an introduction class with a friend and had the best time! Instructors were friendly and super helpful. It’s a safe space to explore something new without judgement. The studio was clean and set up for a successful session. Not too crowded and was able to get the 1:1 attention needed for learning something new. Will definitely be trying another introduction/level one class in the future! Highly recommend for a fun night out for yourself or with friends!

Source: Google

★ 5

Welcoming, inclusive, supportive, individualized tricks and dance. The instructors are truly here to support your growth and autonomy, ready to meet you where you are today. There are classes for yoga and conditioning, there are classes for dancing or for focusing on tricks—there is no one single way to do pole. There’s no specific body type or personality or prerequisite you need to come here, essence really is for everyone. I can come in feeling my best and be hyped and encouraged, or I can come in feeling sore or stressed and be supported in that way, too. I always leave class feeling more myself than I did when I walked in. I’ve been coming to essence for about 2 years now, and I can confidently say that I would not be the person I am today without this community. You sign up for a class one day—whether it’s to do something different, or for fitness, or to build confidence, or to meet new people…and then you get to find yourself in a new home. Try it out, you won’t regret it. ❤️

Source: Google

★ 5

Highly recommend! Such an invititing environment. I feel very comfortable as a beginner in the world of pole!

Source: Google

★ 5

There is an absolutely amazing group of teachers and students which makes the space feel warm and welcoming. The variety of classes also keeps me from getting bored so it's easy to make this a regular part of my fitness routine.

Source: Google

★ 5

Welcoming and inclusive! Classes at all levels of experience/abilities with no judgment and instructors that genuinely want to help you succeed.

Source: Google

★ 5

Essence has become my happy place! I love having a safe and supportive environment to push my body in a unique way! The instructors are super knowledgeable and just the sweetest people! The best things I've gained from Essence are, a new found confidence in my body, and the best pole friends, who always support your wins!

Source: Google

★ 5

Essence is absolutely amazing!! The environment is genuinely so welcoming & perfect for beginners. I love that they focus on the needs of the students & shape their classes based on the students interests. Always such a fun time no matter what class you take!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brandy is great. So fun!

Source: Google

★ 5

One of the best pole studios I’ve been too! Essence Pole & Dance harbors a safe and welcoming environment that is a 100% judgement free zone. I began consistently going about five months ago to reignite my aerial pursuits and I have not been disappointed. Everytime I step into the studio it feels like coming home with a group of women who care and encapsulate what pole is meant to be.

Pros:

The teaching is progressive with your safety in mind. No overloading or pressing you to fast. Your foundations will be beyond solid so you are able to comfortably progress on your journey.

Each student is treated as an individual. Everyone learns at a different pace and the lovely teachers always have that in mind during every class!

You’ll gain confidence with each trick learned. Depending on the class you really learn to tap into your ‘essence’ one might say.

Cons:

N/A

So, 10/10 I would recommend this studio to anyone who wants to begin their journey or start up again. They will make you fall in love, I know I have.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you're looking for a safe & non-judgmental environment to express yourself in, then this is the place for you! I was so nervous to take myself first class, but I'm so grateful I did. After one class, I knew this was what I was searching for. Fast forward a year later, my body is stronger, I have confidence in my own skin, and I get to spend time with people on the same journey that want to see each other thrive.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The instructors are so nice and supportive and the classes are well priced and so worth the experience! The conditioning is something I'll keep coming back to. Everything offered here is such a good full body workout.

Source: Google

★ 5

Essence Pole & Dance Studio gave me life! Treated myself for my 52nd bday. Although I went alone, I felt comfortable in being myself. It is a great welcoming, friendly atmosphere. Do take on a workshop. Mala Mia was everything !! Megan was knowledgeable as well as inspiring. It’s a whole experience !!Winning🎯

Source: Google

★ 5

Myself and a friend took the beginner/intro pole dance class on Wed 8/16. I have to tell you we were both a little nervous because we didn't know what to expect and more than anything we were very concerned that because we are over 50 we would be in a group of very young people who would outpace us. I 1st went to say that the facility we were at was very very inspiring! There's a lot of crossfit taking place there and it really makes you feel like you can do it!! The section that the pole dancing took place in was wonderful because it was a little more private. Our instructor Megan was absolutely phenomenal! She did a fantastic job of making us feel welcome and comfortable She laid to rest any of our anxieties or inhibitions about being able to do anything with a pole! She was great at breaking it down into small segments and helping us to slowly stitch it all together! This is a really great workout! Highly recommend 10/10!

Source: Google

★ 5

So much fun! I highly recommend trying it out

Source: Google

★ 5

This place has quickly become my happy place! It is so welcoming and inclusive and full of positive energy. I have already learned so much from the instructors and am so excited to learn more!

Source: Google

★ 5

All of the instructors have been so incredibly kind and welcoming! They have made it fun and easy and made it so easy to want to come back

Source: Google

★ 5

I am so thrilled that this place exists right here in Valparaiso. The instructors are so nice, and they have such great teaching methods. They are able to break down the moves into baby steps to make them so much easier to understand and learn. The instructors, as well as all the fellow students I've met are so welcoming and friendly. This is definitely a place for anyone wishing to learn pole dance & fitness, no matter your age, current fitness level, or size. They customize instruction to fit you where you are at the moment. Thank you Essence Pole & Dance Studio!

Source: Google

★ 5

Such a good, unique workout. In a comfortable and supportive environment! Everyone cheers each other on, and the instructors are amazing!

Source: Google