Let’s Dance London / St. Thomas: The Wedding Program by Peri Hayes “I grew up dancing with my dad,” Julia Cassis introduces. “He learned to swing dance when he was in the Navy, and I enjoyed this time with him. I was also a gymnast at a young age, a cheerleader in high school and immersed in martial arts – everything led me to dance.” Turning to ballroom dancing at 20, Julia proceeded to complete the teacher training program and has since been instructing for 31 years. Through Let’s Dance London / St. Thomas, business owner, Julia, continues working with all levels of dancers from beginner to competitive. Julia offers insight into the inspiration for her Wedding Program: “In dance studios, we typically have people seeking support for their first dance. This is a common and needed resource. I absolutely love working with wedding couples, and the majority have remained my students even after their wedding. I have had the privilege of seeing some through their first child.” She has also instructed salsa
dancing to the bridal party, which she describes as be- ing both a bonding and mem- orable experience. The uplifting Wedding Pro- gram entails five private les- sons for $175.00. “I work with couples on the song of their choosing, or I can help them during the selection pro- cess. We find a dance that best suits their song, their venue space and most im- portantly, their personalities – I strive to design a low- stress dance, which repre- sents them.” Beyond the five aforemen- tioned lessons, Julia charges
her regular rate of $57.00 for a 45-minute private lesson. She highlights her other packages of five, ten and twenty lessons: “If you buy in bulk, then you get a bit of a discount. I try to keep the cost down.” While many of Julia’s students have been with her for 12-20 years, her longest recurring student has been returning for 28 years and counting. “He can dance anybody under the table, though a driving force of his continuation is friendship.” Julia cherishes these connections, as well as witnessing the incredible growth of her students. In St. Thomas, Julia is appreciative of the opportunity to rent space at Lafontaine Auto Service (The Garage). During the day, Jay’s lobby doubles as a gallery where his daughter sells jewelry. “This is a lovely space to visit.” Meanwhile — for two evenings each week — the space is cleared, the mirrors are out, and the music is playing. Julia further invites, “If there is an interested group, I can find time to book those people together.” “I can also teach in others’ places,” Julia includes. “If they have adequate space in their home, for example. This is a customizable experience that I aim to facilitate.” Students typically meet with Julia once a week, as she encourages, “I recommend this as a minimum, in order for students to retain the knowledge and progress.” With the multi-faceted Julia working in real estate and supply teaching for the French school board, the best way to connect is through texting or phoning: 519-670-6625.
MALAHIDE COMMUNITY PLACE The perfect setting for your special day.
• Affordable pricing • Fully equipped catering kitchen
• Friendly and accommodating staff to help meet your unique needs • Variety of room configurations to welcome endless possibilities! • Scenic green space, a lovely spot for your ceremony and photos right outside the door • Variety of table sizes and shapes all included • So much more, come out and see... Call 519-773-5344 (ext. 232), email rentals@malahide.ca, book online at malahide.ca or scan the QR code to reserve your space today. Malahide Community Place 12105 Whittaker Rd Springfield
Now Proudly Serving...
Proudly serving the area since 2003
(519) 631-0333 24 First Ave., Unit #6, St. Thomas www.thewinemakersofelgin.com
Page 22 Hometown St. Thomas • May 2026
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