At an early age, Bernice started spending her summers in Chicago training with some of the most respected teachers and dancers. Opening her studio in 1929 she offered classes in ballet, tap, and acrobatics. World War II broke out, many soldiers were dispatched to the military bases located around Pensacola. Bernice quickly noticed a need to include ballroom classes. Her parents also reached out and opened their home to the military families, often inviting them for dinner and family festivities. During that time, the studio did many shows for the USO and military bases around the area.

Bernice soon employed more teachers and added more classes to maintain the growing needs of the studio. She and her teachers continued to travel to Chicago in the summers taking from some of the most prestigious teachers. The excellent training and family atmosphere of the studio resulted in an increasing growth. Bernice eventually lost her battle with cancer in 1989. She had taught dance for 60 years. Bernice's daughter Starr, following in her mother's footsteps, eagerly continued the legacy her mother started. Bernice's Starrstep Dance Studio is now in its 82nd year. Starr, along with her staff has continued high expectations for the future.