Today we’d like to introduce you to Viktoriya Dilay.
Hi Viktoriya, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Ternopil, Ukraine where ballroom dancing was a very popular hobby for kids and teens. When I was just 5 years old, I attended my first dance competition, and that’s when I instantly fell in love with the elegant dancesport. Growing up a shy girl, dancing allowed me to discover myself and create an outlet for my self-expression. Later on in life, dance provided me with a clear focus and help me improve my mental and physical well-being. In 2016 I started college and decided to quit dancing to focus on my academics; however, within less than a year, I realized that I could not live without it and decided to pursue ballroom dancing once more. That year, I resumed teaching again and in 2018 I opened my own business: VIP Ballroom Dance in Chicago, IL.
In 2020, I finished my dual degrees in Neuroscience and Psychology from Loyola University Chicago and took a job in St.Louis which has led me and my dance business here.
As of now, I have over 8 years of teaching experience and nearly 20 years of dance experience. I teach Ballroom, Latin, and various social dances to all ages and dance levels. I use my background in Neuroscience and Psychology to intertwine my two passions together and help others find balance and harmony on and off the dance floor.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The biggest challenge, in general, has been overcoming many self-doubts in order to start believing in myself, my purpose, and the value I provide to others. Starting a business at the age of 19 was definitely scary, but my grit and dedication along with the passion I have for it helped me overcome many difficulties in this journey. I had to learn a lot about myself and about the process of building and maintaining a successful business along the way, but I am very proud of the fact that even with a pandemic and relocation, I was able to keep and grow my business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
VIP Ballroom Dance offers high-quality dance instruction for adults and children. I specialize in Latin, Ballroom, and various social dances, primarily focusing on teaching lead and follow skills, the fundamentals of basic patterns and rhythm, and techniques that will improve body movement. No dance experience or partner is necessary.
I also offer a variety of wedding dance lessons. Whether the couple wants a fully choreographed dance or maybe they just want to take their sway to the next level with a classic first dance, I will help them prepare for their special day by creating a customized, one-on-one Wedding Dance Instruction Program. In addition, I also provide lessons for Mother-Son & Father-Daughter dances, Bridesmaids choreography, as well as professional performances.
My goal is to train students in the latest techniques, steps, and styles of dance, while bringing joy and confidence to their life and inspire them through my love of dance!
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Being a small business owner requires lots of discipline and self-motivation. You need to be highly proactive and consistent in order to expand and seek out beneficial opportunities and connections. In addition, I think my relationship-building and interpersonal skills are also critical to my success. It’s important to me that my students feel trust and mutual respect, and by creating an excellent relationship with them, I am able to effectively listen and understand their vision and goals to maximize the value I can provide. Also being able to adapt and accommodate to different individuals, personalities and learning styles is equally important.
Pricing:
- Introductory Private Lesson $35
Contact Info:
- Website: www.vipballroomdance.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vipballroomdance/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vipballroomdance
