Today we’d like to introduce you to Jillian Sabella.
Hi Jillian, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I moved to Dallas after earning my architectural degree from Carnegie Mellon, and began working at a local firm. With a strong background in dance and fitness, I knew I wanted to continue pursuing those passions alongside my architecture career. I quickly immersed myself in the DFW dance and fitness scenes, working at a variety of boutique studios around my day job.
Since then, I’ve obtained my architectural license, worked at notable firms in both Dallas and Fort Worth, and now run my own freelance practice, JS Design Management, where I explore all things architecture and design!
Congruently, I’ve continued dancing professionally—serving on a commercial dance company, performing with talent groups, choreographing shows for local musicians, leading professional dance teams, and teaching adult dance classes for all levels. My time performing on stage is always deeply impactful for me; it is where I feel the most free and expressive.
I’ve also had the privilege of channeling that energy into my work as an instructor. Leading group fitness and dance classes brings me such sincere joy! I’m especially ardent about making movement feel welcoming and accessible to everyone. I’m so grateful to be part of a team like Labori, whose mission it is to give back to the community so meaningfully, alongside the other fantastic studios I am lucky to serve!
Over the past ten years, I’ve taught a wide range of movement formats—including cycling, sculpt, burn, strength training, cardio, contemporary and jazz dance—and I truly love the variety and connection that each class brings.
I’m excited to keep playing in the artistic sandbox—blending design, movement, and performance in ways that continue to light me up and (hopefully!) inspire others too.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Of course, the road is never smooth—everyone faces their own challenges, and every one of them is valid. For me, the biggest struggle has been balancing multiple passions while navigating a more traditional career path that doesn’t always leave space for additional or unconventional pursuits. So often we’re made to feel like we have to choose, even when we want it all.
That tension is what ultimately led me to launch my freelance business; I wasn’t ready to give up the different outlets that bring me joy and fulfillment!
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to build a support system here in Dallas—full of truly special people. With my family on the East Coast, it’s been especially powerful to find that kind of community and connection away from home.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
In starting JS Design Management, my goal was to fuse my diverse interests and skill sets without having to limit the scope of work I could offer. I wanted the freedom to support clients, architects, designers, and creative professionals in bringing their unique visions to life—whatever that vision may be!
Whether it’s transforming a personal or professional space, designing a dream event, streamlining project management, offering personalized representation, or bringing emotional intelligence into creative teams, I’m committed to showing up with care, clarity, and purpose.
I have a deep passion for detail and a strong commitment to excellence—but above all, my favorite part of the work is getting to know you. I truly value building intentional relationships with my clients, taking the time to understand your needs, goals, and personal style. Every design, and every team, should be uniquely curated around you.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Communication! You have to be willing to open up and be vulnerable about what you’re pursuing—if no one knows, how can they help connect you? Networking can feel really intimidating (and often like a chore), no matter what industry you’re in. I try to approach it as gently and genuinely as possible. To me, networking should be about authentic connection—just finding people who are excited by the same things you are. Some of my best networking comes from lighthearted conversations had with clients who pass through my fitness and dance classes! As always, it is easier said than done, but just starting a convo with someone in class around you could be a happy little surprise!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jsdesignmgmt.com/
- Instagram: @jilljillsabella @jsdesignmgmt
Image Credits
Diana Carrillo
Zhenya Wood
