Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Rogel.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My love for dance started at a young age. It quickly became more than just an activity for me—it was a place where I felt confident, creative, and completely myself. As I grew, that passion stayed with me, and I knew I wanted to build something that would give other kids that same feeling.
Over time, I turned that passion into creating a space where dancers of all levels feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow. All by starting pessimism my garage and eventually moving into a bigger space.
I’ve always believed that dance should be fun first—a place where kids can express themselves, build friendships, and gain confidence without pressure or fear of judgment.
As we’ve grown, my goal has remained the same: to provide high-quality dance training in an environment that feels positive and welcoming. Just as importantly, I’ve worked hard to keep our programs affordable for families. I believe every child who has a passion for dance deserves the opportunity to pursue it, regardless of financial barriers.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. Opening a dance studio comes with a lot of moving parts—finding the right location, building trust in the community, managing finances, and balancing the creative side of dance with the realities of running a business.
In the beginning, one of the biggest challenges was simply getting the word out and growing interest. Building a studio from the ground up takes patience, and there were moments of uncertainty. There are also ongoing challenges—rising costs, scheduling logistics, and making sure we can remain affordable for families while still providing a high-quality experience.
But every obstacle has helped us grow. Each challenge pushed us to be more creative, more intentional, and more committed to our mission. At the heart of it all has been our love for dance and our dedication to creating a safe, fun, and welcoming space for kids. Those values have guided us through the tough moments and continue to shape where we’re headed today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
We’re known for our family-friendly atmosphere and the strong sense of community we’ve built. Our classes are structured and purposeful, but never intimidating. We work hard to meet each dancer where they are, helping beginners feel comfortable while still challenging more advanced students to reach their potential.
What I’m most proud of is the culture we’ve created. Parents trust us. Kids feel excited to walk through the doors. Dancers support one another instead of competing in unhealthy ways. That environment doesn’t happen by accident—it’s something we intentionally cultivate every day.
What truly sets us apart is our commitment to accessibility and heart. We strive to keep our programs affordable so that more families have the opportunity to participate. We believe dance should be available to any child with the passion and desire to learn. At the end of the day, we’re not just building strong dancers—we’re building confident, kind, and resilient young people.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was that kid. The one who turned the living room into a stage and the hallway into a runway. We didn’t have much—especially not the extra money for dance classes—but that never stopped me. If anything, it fueled me.
Personality-wise? Big energy. Sensitive but fierce. I felt everything deeply and expressed it through movement. If there was music playing anywhere within a five-mile radius, I was already choreographing in my head.
I was also a dreamer. The kind who’d stare out the window imagining big stages, bright lights, and applause. Even when money was tight, my imagination was rich.
Growing up without financial support for my passion didn’t make me bitter—it made me resilient. It taught me to fight for what I love, to value every opportunity, and to never take a single moment on a dance floor for granted.
Pricing:
- $25/one-hr class, once a week
- $65 for competition classes
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.iconicdanceco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconicdancecompany__slc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AQBv1biJx/
