Opened: June 2004

Products and services: We teach dance classes for people 3 years old to adult. We offer classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop and lyrical, and a junior praise choir for ages 7 to 11. We use Christian music, and we try to provide a very positive atmosphere. It's a real wholesome environment for the kids to learn in. We also just added some adult aerobic classes for the summer session. The whole six-week summer session starts May 24. Registration is from 9 a.m. to noon.

Why did you get into this business? I've been dancing since I was 3 years old, and I got into it when I started teaching dance at different schools and studios in the area after college. I started my business because I have a firm foundation in my faith, and I wanted there to be a place where kids can learn the art of dance in a positive environment where we honor God with our dancing. I just had a vision that was more positive and family-oriented and just a better place to dance.

How has your business grown since opening? We opened with 60 students and we've grown to our new location with approximately 155 students in two years. We were originally holding classes out of the basement of Concordia Lutheran Church in Machesney Park, and we just moved into our new location in January. People have been telling their friends, families and neighbors, and each semester we get bigger and bigger. I've also added a couple teachers along the way.

Where do you see your business in the next five years? My ultimate goal is to have a facility in Rockford that is a performing-arts center or school where there would be drama classes and music. I also teach voice lessons, so that's something I see more of.

What advice can you offer others who are thinking of entering the business? It's a lot of hard work, but I just really kept working at it. If you keep your expenses low at the beginning and really just try to grow your business with the least amount of expenses, that has a lot to do with my success.

What is most satisfying about your business? I love the kids. I have a passion for dance, and I love watching them after I've taught them. It's really neat to see what I've taught them and how they've progressed in two years.

By Rowena Vergara