Three heartfelt lessons from our first year at MOVE Franklin
It feels impossible that our Franklin studio is already turning one this week… and yet, here we are, celebrating!
It’s been one year since we unlocked the doors and watched our MOVE family grow even bigger. A year of new faces, packed classes, and countless moments that remind us why we do what we do.
And what a year it’s been.
Between the energy of our dancers, the laughter in the lobby, and the joy that fills every class, it’s been a season of holding onto our hats. With recital prep in full swing and the holidays just around the corner, our team has been running on equal parts caffeine and joy (with maybe a sprinkle of glitter thrown in for good measure).
If we’re being honest, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Some unexpected budget cuts for our upcoming recital left us scrambling to close the gap. But challenges have a way of bringing our community closer. They remind us of what makes MOVE special and the way everyone shows up, steps in, and pushes forward together.
So as we head into our second year and the season of giving, we’re intentionally choosing to slow down. To breathe, notice, and appreciate the important lessons this first year has taught us.
Here’s what we learned this year:
1, Growth takes time and grace
When we look back on this first year, one thing stands out: growth doesn’t happen overnight. From that very first class filled with nervous excitement and new beginnings, to watching our dancers perform with confidence and joy, this year reminded us that progress is built step by step, one MOVE, one smile, one connection at a time. Reflecting on our journey helps us see that the messy parts and the magical moments all belong. Every bump, every breakthrough, every “let’s try that again” has shaped MOVE Franklin into what it is today: a place where growth isn’t rushed, and every small win is worth celebrating.
2. Celebration belongs in every season
If there’s one thing our team knows, it’s that joy multiplies when you make room for it. We’ve learned that celebration isn’t just for the big recitals or the perfect performances, it’s for the in-between moments too. It’s the delightfully unexpected moments in class, the friendships forming between dancers, the courage to try something new. This first year has been full of milestones and challenges, and we’re embracing them all. Because every time someone comes through our doors, they add a little more heart to this community.
3, Gratitude gives everything meaning
The biggest takeaway is that we couldn’t do any of this alone. We’re endlessly thankful for the dancers, families, volunteers, and supporters who make MOVE possible. You’ve cheered from the audience, carpooled through traffic, tied dance shoes, and believed in this mission from day one.
And as we give thanks, we’re also giving back.
Throughout the week of November 3rd, every dollar donated will go directly to our student scholarship fund, helping more dancers experience the joy, confidence, and community that MOVE brings. Your support ensures that every dancer, regardless of circumstance, has the chance to shine on stage exactly the way they deserve to.
So while the rest of the world speeds up for the holidays, we’re choosing to slow down. To reflect on the year behind us. To celebrate the magic of movement and belonging. To give thanks for every person who’s made this dream possible.
Because in the end, what really matters is connection, generosity, and the joy that happens when everyone has a place in the circle.
Happy first birthday, MOVE Franklin! Here’s to many more years of moving, growing, and shining together.
