From transforming interiors to twirling on the dance floor, renowned designer Lauren Wallace has embraced the art of ballroom dancing.
“Being a mom and business owner, I’m expected to always be on and available 24/7, so it’s been healthy to take some time and space for myself,” says Lauren Wallace, Pro-am Ballroom Dancer,and Co-Founder & Interior Designer, MDF Development.
While many working moms- and moms in general- feel snagging alone time seems selfish, Lauren says having a hobby makes her a better mom, better wife and better business owner.
“I wake up very early in the morning and sacrifice leisure time to ensure I can dance and that my family, employees, and clients all get the attention they deserve. It’s an action-packed schedule, but totally worth it,” she says.
With an esteemed interior design background and reputation, we got to know another side of Lauren… a side that’s earning praise for her graceful performances.
“My instructor and I just won my division of Pro-Am International Standard at USDC… the ballroom dancing US National Championships! As an amateur, I dance with a professional for a partner. He competes on the professional circuit.”
Lauren grew up doing ballet, but as she entered her teens, the pressure-filled environment became unhealthy, and she wasn’t having fun anymore. She stumbled upon a ballroom dancing group class, and on a whim, signed up.
“I fell in love with it, found an amateur partner, and started competing while still in high school.”
After competing with her partner for a few years, Lauren took a long break to finish college, start her design/build business (MDF Development), and have a baby. Once her son was out of the infant stage, she felt a strong yearning to revisit dancing.
“I was hesitant at first, but my husband encouraged me to bring ballroom back into my life.”
Lauren’s favorite dances vary between all five: waltz, tango, Viennese waltz, foxtrot and quickstep. She says it’s fun to play different characters, dance to different music, and master different techniques.
“My coach and I practice 4-5 days, and I practice by myself daily. Dancing takes immense endurance. The most important thing for me to do is show up consistently, have a dedicated focus, and push myself physically and mentally.”
As for the outfits, Lauren prefers a classic “old Hollywood” look with feathers and chiffon. She’s all about her new custom champagne-and-white colored dress.
“Next season I’ll be in a new age class that is even more competitive, so I’m excited to train hard and hopefully win pro-am US Nationals again.”
According to Lauren, if you want to break into the world of ballroom dancing, take the plunge. She says it’s incredible for your mind and body and gets more fun as you progress. Even if you never want to compete, studios offer private and group lessons, practice parties, and social dances.
“With TV shows like ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ ballroom dancing is becoming more and more mainstream. Plus, it’s a great workout that improves cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility.”
With a rich background in luxury interior design, Lauren, along with her husband Frank DiMaggio, bring stunning remodels to market. mdfdev.com