Today we’d like to introduce you to Belinda Santos.
Belinda, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
The first time I saw a magical creature float across the stage, I was nine years old. I was completely captivated. It was the sugar plum fairy in our local performance of The Nutcracker. I knew right at that very moment, I wanted dance. I started my ballet training at the Deborah Case Dance Academy in McAllen TX and continued throughout college. In 2007, I received a BA in Psychology and Art from the University of the Incarnate Word and began teaching at small studios while performing on the side.
In 2012, I graduated with a Master’s Degree in Dance from Texas Woman’s University. During this time, I met my good friend and colleague Holly Seeley who was then the owner of Preston Hollow Dance. I started working for her upon graduation teaching 15+ classes a week and learning the business side of running a dance studio. It was hard work and a lot of late nights but worth every minute. Five years later, Holly relocated to Los Angeles and sold the business over to me. As owner and director, I realize how important it is to maintain strong connections with clients and community members. We are a small studio with a big heart; every family that walks into our door is welcome with a smile and a sense of community.
I will always be a performer at heart, but teaching provides an outlet to share this amazing art form with others and encourage people to dream. Seeing children’s eyes light up when they accomplish their goals in class is why I love this business. I create a supportive environment for students work hard, sweat, cry, laugh, and live out their aspirations of becoming something greater than they previously imagined.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
As a business owner and dance instructor, you’re never really “off”. When I’m not responding to emails or phone calls I’m doing one of the following (if not all at the same time): teaching classes until 8:30 p.m., motivating students to work hard, choreographing while cooking dinner at home, applying for show entries, preparing for recital, ordering costumes, promoting my business 24 hours a day, networking, performing, being a second mother to my students, and of course… ensuring that every child and parent are happy.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Preston Hollow Dance – what should we know?
We are a dance studio that offers multidisciplinary classes ranging from Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, and Tap for students ages 2.5 through adults. Our Mommy and Me classes are great for babies ages 18 months – 2 years old… these are especially popular during the summer months!
We also provide after school dance programs at several nearby private and public schools for students ages 4 and up.
All of our classes are taught by degreed professionals who are committed to offering the highest quality dance instruction. Class sizes range from 6 – 12 students per class. From beginner to advanced levels, we cater to each student by fostering personal growth and setting attainable goals. We want to ensure that every dancer walks away feeling confident and motivated.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Holly Seeley – former owner has been extremely supportive; she trained me how to multitask, time-manage, and find the beauty in Microsoft office programs. I can now delegate like a “boss” in my ballet shoes. She is still my guru.
Deborah Case – Childhood ballet instructor who I will always hold a special place in my heart for. I catch myself saying the same things I use to hear as a young girl to my students now.
Bryce Richardson – my fiancé, business advisor, and cheerleader.
Pricing:
- Trimester Payment Plan: $218.75 every three months for one hour a week (averages to $73 per month)
- Monthly Plan: $85 per month for one hour a week
- $15 drop-in classes
- Free trial class if you sign up the same day!
Contact Info:
- Address: Preston Hollow Dance
3720 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 205
Dallas, TX 75229 - Website: www.prestonhollowdance.com
- Phone: 214-674-6578
- Email: info@prestonhollowdance.com
- Instagram: phdance
- Facebook: @phdance
- Yelp: preston hollow dance
