About Melissa

Melissa began her dance training back in her home state of Illinois. From a very young age, it was obvious that Melissa was destined to be in the performing arts. She participated in the marching band, concert band, jazz band, pep band, concert choir, show choir and more in high school. As a senior in high school, she became the only student to ever rehearse and conduct the school band in concert. Everyone in the small farming community knew she would continue to mesmerize audiences through college and of course she followed suit as she studied music education. After trying the typical forms of dance at a young age, she decided to "check out" the world of ballroom and never looked back. She has competed in both American Rhythm and International Latin styles.

Since moving to the Orange County area, Melissa has taught at local dance studios proving to be not only an exceptional instructor and leader but also a mentor with her students best interest at heart. She offers her students programs ranging from being a socially comfortable dancer to a highly competitive DanceSport Competitor. Melissa is currently teaching at Avant Garde in Newport Beach conducting private lessons as well as group classes.

Melissa is also actively involved in TEAM Leadership Program and Landmark Education where she continues to learn about the power of our words and the influence we can have on the people around us. She strives to make the world a better place one dance at a time. Melissa says the highlight of her teaching career will always be the look on her students faces when they finally get something they've been struggling with. 

As a current professional DanceSport competitor, Melissa strives to consistently grow in her dancing and believes it is extremely important that she continues to learn about herself and her dancing. She currently coaches with Mark & Viola Weiss, Nadia Eftedal, Victor Kanevsky and more!  

Call or email today to take advantage of one of my new student specials and you can be dancing tonight!