Burlesque workshop checklist: what to arrange and when

A burlesque workshop needs more than an instructor and a playlist. You need to coordinate registrations, accessory sizes, dietary requirements, music, catering and a room where people can move, change and see themselves clearly. This checklist follows the practical order: confirm the venue and program first, prepare guests and materials next, then set up the room and test everything before arrival. It also highlights details that are easy to leave until the last minute, such as ventilation, mirrors, power access and chilled drinks.

Organize this event for free with Lizzt

The plan, step by step

Every task with its own sub-checklist, in the order you'll actually need them.

Preparations

Confirm date and location
Book a burlesque instructor
Align workshop program
2 people
Send invitations
Process registrations
Collect dietary requirements
Send transportation information
Gather accessory sizes
Order catering
Compile the music playlist
Download workshop music
Check the shopping list
Do the shopping
2 people
Gather accessories and materials
2 people
Chill drinks
Open venue
2 people
Ventilate room
Clear the floor
2 people
Set up tables
2 people
Set out chairs
2 people
Place mirrors
2 people
Prepare workshop materials
2 people
Hang decorations
2 people
Test lighting and music
2 people
Set out drinks and snacks
2 people
Set up the reception table

Event

Receive participants
2 people
Serve welcome drinks
2 people
Explain the program and safety rules
Lead burlesque workshop
2 people
Refill break drinks
Serve snacks
2 people
Supervise the photo corner
Distribute clothing and accessories
2 people
Take group photo
Set up buffet
3 people
Serve dinner
3 people
Refill drinks
Coordinate music and dancing
Say goodbye and hand out personal belongings
2 people

Aftercare

Store leftovers in the fridge
2 people
Collect waste
2 people
Wash dishes
2 people
Put furniture back
3 people
Remove decorations
2 people
Clean the room
2 people
Check and store the materials
2 people
Return borrowed materials
Distribute leftover groceries

What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Chairsqty 16
Foldable tablesqty 4
Clothing rack
Room dividersqty 2
Coat hangersqty 20

Tableware

Drinking glassesqty 24
Wine glassesqty 18
Platesqty 18
Cutlery setsqty 18
Coffee cupsqty 18
Serving plattersqty 6
Serving tongsqty 4
Water carafesqty 4

Decorations

Red table runnersqty 4
Satin clothsqty 6
Photo backdrop
Balloon archesqty 2
LED candlesqty 16
Photo propsqty 12

Equipment

Bluetooth speaker
Laptop
Microphone
Extension cordsqty 3
Power stripsqty 3
Handheld mirrorsqty 6
Yoga or dance matsqty 14

Workshop materials

Feather boasqty 14
Hand fansqty 14
Satin glovesqty 14
Top hatsqty 6
Practice sticksqty 6

Kitchen

Coolersqty 3
Thermos flasksqty 3
Coffee maker
Kettle
Cutting boardsqty 2
Chef's knifeqty 2
Serving trays with lidsqty 4

Lighting

LED string lightsqty 4
LED spotlightsqty 2

Cleaning

Dustpan and brush
Bucketsqty 2
Mopsqty 2
Cleaning glovesqty 4
Hand soap dispensersqty 2

Catering

Groceries

Tips

Confirm the instructor, venue and workshop program before sending invitations. Include the start time, expected duration, clothing guidance and whether guests should bring or receive accessories.
Close registrations early enough to collect dietary requirements and accessory sizes. A deadline of 7–10 days before the workshop gives you time to order catering and prepare materials without rushing.
Download the workshop music before the event rather than relying on an internet connection. Test the laptop, Bluetooth speaker, microphone, extension cords and power strips together in the room.
Allow at least 60–90 minutes for setup. Clear the floor first, then position mats, chairs, mirrors, tables, clothing racks and room dividers so movement and changing areas do not interfere with one another.
Ventilate the room before guests arrive and chill the drinks in advance. Set out water, glasses, snacks and workshop accessories only after the main floor and music setup have been checked.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I plan a burlesque workshop?: Start arranging the instructor and venue at least 6–8 weeks ahead. Send invitations once the date, location and program are confirmed, and set the registration deadline around 7–10 days before the workshop.
How much time do I need to set up a burlesque workshop?: Allow 60–90 minutes on site for setup and testing. This covers ventilating the room, clearing the floor, arranging furniture and mirrors, preparing materials, hanging decorations, and checking lighting and music.
What should I prepare for a burlesque workshop?: Prepare movement space, yoga or dance mats, handheld mirrors, chairs, tables, a clothing rack and room dividers where needed. Have the agreed accessories ready, such as feather boas, hand fans, satin gloves and top hats, plus drinks, snacks and catering.
When should I order catering for a burlesque workshop?: Order catering once registrations and dietary requirements are closed, ideally 7–10 days before the event. Confirm the final guest count and any special requirements before placing the order, then prepare serving platters, tongs, plates and cutlery.

Start this plan in Lizzt

Every task and item on this page, ready in your own event. Invite people, split the work, and see who has done what.