Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lydia Véjar. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Lydia thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

Heels 101 was created because I saw a lack of true beginner dance spaces in the Twin Cities. I believe every human is a natural born dancer/mover- we just need to be given the right space to explore and reconnect with our bodies. I created Heels 101 so people could do just that. Dance has transformed the way I walk and maneuver in all spaces, I am more confident and kind to myself because of my dance journey. I want every person to be able to experience the gift of movement- no matter their skill level. It’s such a gift to be able to see people fall in love with dance and themselves through Heels 101 classes.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Lydia Véjar. I am dancer from Bolingbrook, Illinois. I grew up with a passion for movement and started dance training in high school. I moved to the Twin Cities to pursue a degree in Youth Studies at the University of Minnesota. Throughout college, I taught hip hop and a few heels classes. After graduating in 2020, I took a deep dive into heels training. I was at multiple heels classes every week- I couldn’t get enough. I loved the challenge and the sense of community it brought me. It was through several heels intensive programs, I met some of my best friends. In February 2022, I built up the courage to teach my own classes. I was determined to make the heels community a space where all levels, genders, body types, abilities would feel welcome….and Heels 101 was born! Since 2022, Heels 101 provides a safe space for beginner dancers to embark on their heels journey. Offering weekly classes, private lessons, group lessons, bachelorette and birthday parties- Heels 101 caters to each and every dancer. Whether you want to commit to training and growing your dance skills or you just want a space to release and feel sexy, Heels 101 is the place to be.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

The life of a professional dancer is a life of unpredictability. Shortly after I started my Heels 101 journey in 2022, I auditioned for the Minnesota Timberwolves Dancers and made the team. I was overjoyed for this opportunity, but had to step back from Heels 101. I went from teaching three times a week to once. It was a hard decision, but I knew this experience would make me a better, more knowledgeable teacher. My students were so happy for me and supported me throughout the basketball season. The season ended and it was time to reaudition for the team. I planned my entire 9 months around the season. So you can imagine how lost I felt when I got cut on day one of auditions. I was confused, angry, and heartbroken. I had put so much energy into this one opportunity that I had forgotten how important Heels 101 was to me. After allowing myself to be sad for a while, I started planning. I started teaching Heels 101 classes four times a week and even began planning a Heels 101 Intensive Program to begin January 2024. While it was difficult for me accept my NBA Dance career had come to an end, I truly believe it happened for a reason. And that reason is Heels 101. I know have so much more time dedicate to my classes and my students. I could have easily given up- my confidence was shot. However, I remembered what I always tell my dancers, “Your mistakes don’t define who you are as a dancer- it’s about your resilience. How are you going to bounce back?”

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Authenticity. I truly believe my business has been so successful because when people see me, they see someone real. The dance industry can feel so disingenuous and inauthentic at times. It’s all about the perfect Instagram reel and your connections in the industry. I go out of my way to connect with each person that enters Heels 101. We always share our names and pronouns during each class- it’s a small act, but it makes people feel valued. I’ve had many clients bring friends and family to class because they want to share the positive experiences they’ve had. If you truly care about people- they will keep coming back.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @heels.101 @lyd.nicole.xo