Owning a dance studio can place a unique strain on a marriage, especially during busy seasons when recital deadlines, competitions, staffing challenges, and unexpected problems demand your attention.
In this episode of The Life We Build series, Ginger talks with Connie O'Reel, owner of Southwest Synergy Dance, about building a strong marriage while growing a successful dance studio. Connie shares how her husband has supported her throughout her 20 years of studio ownership, from helping with hands-on projects to offering encouragement behind the scenes.
Ginger and Connie also discuss the importance of recognizing when business stress is affecting your relationship, making time for connection outside of the studio, and understanding what kind of support your spouse is best equipped to provide.
In this episode, you'll hear about:
- How Connie and her husband found ways to spend time together during the early years of studio ownership
- Why busy seasons can create tension at home
- The importance of showing appreciation when your spouse supports your business
- How scheduled date nights can help couples stay connected
- Why your spouse may not always be the best person to process studio drama with
- How to communicate clearly when you need a listening ear versus a solution
- The value of creating family time that has nothing to do with dance
- How to make sure your spouse is included in the rewarding parts of studio ownership
Mrs. Connie O'Reel is the Director and Owner of Southwest Synergy Dance, bringing over 40 years of training in jazz, hip hop, ballet, and lyrical. A former competitive dancer and Illinois state champion at Lockport Township High School, she began assistant teaching at age twelve and became a principal instructor by nineteen. Since assuming leadership in 2006, Miss Connie has grown Southwest Synergy Dance into an award-winning, community-centered studio, named Southland's Best Dance Studio, and has expanded its reach with a second location. Her choreography spans competitive as well as local high school programs. Connie is an active member of The Rhee Gold Company's Gold Alliance, Gold Alliance Masters, and The Organized Executive Club, where she continues to advance her leadership and business expertise. Known for building confident dancers and strong communities, Connie remains committed to developing the next generation through discipline, creativity, and connection.
https://swsynergy.com/
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