Student of the Month Spotlight

Meet Wendy Riley, August's Student of the Month Spotlight...

Many people dream of being twirled around a dance floor and learning to dance.  Wendy Riley had that same dream and 8 years ago she sought out to make that dream a reality.  She began taking lessons at Arthur Murray Studios in Lancaster - learning everything from Foxtrot to Cha Cha and everything in between.

After a few years, Wendy's friend, Cindy Ford, suggested she try Top Hat.  Wendy was reluctant at first, not wanting to leave her former teacher.  In 2006 she tried Top Hat and was immediately hooked.  She began taking both group classes and private lessons and continues her weekly lessons with Daniel to this day!

Wendy says she loves all the dances but leans towards the Latin styles.  However, she said she has a fascination with the beauty of Waltz and agreed that the grandeur of the dance makes you feel like a princess!

Four grandchildren keep Wendy quite busy off the dance floor.  She also enjoys interior decorating and landscaping; loves to shop and travel; and is never without her companion, Lulu, her adorable dachshund.  Wendy also said, "I spend a lot of time hunting for things I can't remember where I put them!"

When asked what she likes most about Top Hat, Wendy's immediate response was, "the convenience!"  She lives about 1 mile away from the studio!  With a laugh she said, "Really, I love Daniel and the instructors.  They are so professional and truly seem to care about their students.  I really feel like part of the family."

When Wendy's husband died, she said that dancing really filled a void in her life.  She said she wants to continue to learn because dancing is a way of expressing herself; "it's a form of therapy that just makes you feel good."

Wendy is never without a smile and a warm personality.  We are so honored to have her as part of our dance family.