Today we’d like to introduce you to Veronica Young.
Hi Veronica, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I have always wanted to open my own studio. I wanted a studio that offered after-school programs and provided a student dance company that was competitive and gave back to the community. In January of 2021, All Star Karate allowed me to rent space and I started teaching dance classes days a week when I stumbled across what used to be a Zumba Studio. I applied to lease the space and was approved!! I transformed the space to welcome dancers of all ages and officially started our first Dancing School year in August of 2021. Two years later and three recitals in the books, the studio continues to grow. We have just finished our studio trip to Disney World in Orlando and are gearing up for summer camps as we prep to enter our three years. I am looking forward to another Fantastic year of growth and dancing.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I think the biggest transition for me is becoming a business owner and not just a dance teacher. As a public school teacher, you are used to getting the job done because your resources are limited. Becoming a studio owner is a different ball of wax. I have learned to ask for help, tasking parents volunteers to assist with getting the job done so that the kiddos have an amazing experience. Hiring excellent people who get my vision for the studio and dance within our community has also been a challenge because I am not in Atlanta. I have definitely learned a lot and grown as a business owner from my mistakes, and they have definitely made a difference in how I run the studio.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am definitely a creative person. I love to use dance and the arts as a safe place. A place to find their artistic voice and gain confidence in themselves. I specialized in ballet, jazz and modern dance but also teach other techniques as well. What I am most proud of is the kindness and joy of dance that you find among my students. With all of the different personalities, I strive to create an atmosphere that is welcoming and positive. Negativity must be left at the door. Once that is established, I have to meet people where they are and let the love of dance be what brings them together.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My biggest and greatest cheerleaders are my daughters who have grown to be beautiful dancers themselves… My parents who started my path in dance by enrolling me in dance class when I was three years old and pushed me to change my major to Dance… My husband who has been by my side during this journey. My Mother in law who has the best pep talks. Eric Nielsen and Karen Carson Cook who were my Dance Director, teachers and Red Hots dance team director and Valdosta State University… They saw something in me that I didn’t see or know I was capable of. It was because of them that I started choreography and dance leadership. I am forever grateful.
Pricing:
- $65 for a 50-minute technique class
- Afternoon Performing Arts Program. Monday-FridayElementary School pickup, Homework, snack and dance class every day. $80 a week.
Contact Info:
- Website: Artistryga.com
- Instagram: Artistry.pac
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artistryperformingartscenter
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@artistryperformingartscent4284/featured
Image Credits
A girl and her phone photography
