Ballroom By Jay

For years, holidays usually meant I was teaching. Over the past little while, I've been trying something different...

Actually taking the day off once in a while.

The studio will be closed Monday, September 7 for Labor Day, and I'm looking forward to slowing down for a day before fall gets busy again.

Hope you get a chance to do the same.

Bolero has quite the journey behind it...

It first appeared in Spain during the 1700s as a slow, expressive dance in 3/4 time. Later, when it made its way to Cuba, musicians slowed it down even further and transformed it into the romantic style we know today.

The music has changed, the style has evolved, but the heart of Bolero is still connection and expression.

Book now: https://www.ballroombyjay.com/booking-calendar/private-dance-lesson-50-min

One of the ladies I'm dancing with (Amy Jo) for the Local Dancing with Our Stars is doing a fundraising event on Sunday September 13th. She is raising funds for First Reach Foundation. If you like watching football and getting out of the house, here's an opportunity to go to The Bar in the Stadium District. I look forward to seeing you there!

It never fails. 2nd time to Mackinac Island, 2nd time bringing more reading material for the studio.

The countdown is on ⏰

Entries for the End of Summer Soirée are due September 11, and I'm looking forward to seeing everyone's hard work come together.

If you've been thinking about performing, now's the time to let me know so we can make a plan.

Sometimes all it takes is setting one goal 👀

Anyone else trying to stay cool this August?

You'll usually find me swimming, grabbing some ice cream, or getting outside early before the heat really settles in.

As for the rest of the day...

I'm perfectly happy letting the studio's air conditioning do the heavy lifting.

Let me know your go-to activity in the comments!

Can anyone compete in ballroom dancing?

Absolutely.

One thing people don't always realize is that ballroom competitions aren't just one big event each year. Once September rolls around, showcase season is in full swing, with events happening across Wisconsin every six to eight weeks.

Some dancers compete once. Others catch the bug and keep coming back.

You don't have to decide today! But if you've ever wondered what it's like, I'd be happy to walk you through it.

Send me a DM for a copy of BBJ's Competition Guide or to chat about whether it's a good fit for you.

Same people, same event, Reimagined. Stay tuned for more details!

For years, **Le Carnaval** has celebrated dance with vibrant color, incredible energy, and unforgettable moments. 💚✨

Now, we turn the page and step into something even more refined. 👑

💚✨ **Introducing the Gilded Emerald Gala.** ✨💚

An evening of elegance, emerald glamour, golden details, and breathtaking performances. 💛🌿 Every moment is designed to captivate, inspire, and celebrate the beauty of dance.

This will be more than a showcase—it will be an unforgettable experience. ✨

📅 **Save the date:** **February 13, 2027** 💚
Get ready to step into the **Golden Age of Dance.** 👑✨

February is about to feel elevated! 💛💚

August is birthday month in my family! We've got four... maybe even five birthdays to celebrate this month, including mine.

Curious how old I actually am? You'll have to ask me during your next lesson.

I'm not giving it away that easily. 😂

Some of my favorite nights at the studio aren't competitions or showcases.

They're evenings like our monthly social dance, where everyone gets to practice what they've been learning and spend time with people who enjoy dancing just as much as they do.

There's no pressure or expectations... just good music and a fun night on the floor.

I'd love to see you this Fri August 7 from 7-9pm.

You can RSVP at https://www.facebook.com/share/1C7QMi8C2f/ or message me if it's your first time joining us.