NINA

HOW DID YOU JOIN THE STUDIO RIO FAMILY?

I have known Rio for over twenty years. I started dancing professionally six months after she did but we rarely danced the same circuit. I danced for a total of seventeen years here in the Tidewater area and Atlanta.

I was working for Target in Williamsburg when I received a call out of the blue from Rio. I had no idea she was back in the area. We talked, but could never catch up in person. Then I saw her on Channel 13 and made plans to get together. Unfortunately Rio’s father passed away and we missed each other again. Ironically, her father passed away from the same inoperable cancer that my mother had.

Since the day that we finally met at the Studio, I never left. I told Rio that I wanted to run the Studio for her, and the rest is history. I am a Lead Instructor and I love every minute of it. I am the luckiest girl in the world to have this career and to work with all of the women that I get to see on a daily basis. Rio and I are like long lost sisters who, no matter what – will never be separated again. Everyone should be this lucky!

ONE WAY YOU HAVE CHANGED SINCE COMING ON BOARD

I have tightened up my choreography skills.

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

I am married to a wonderful man who works for the YMCA. We have four cats and a very spoiled German Shepherd. We don’t have children but if we need the “fix”, we have several friends that come equipped with kids of various ages. That way when they cry I can give them back! YEAHHH!!!

I love to dance, read, walk and work-out, watch horror movies and plan for Halloween (my favorite time of the year!) Above all, I love to laugh. I believe if I can make someone’s day a little brighter by making them smile, then I have really accomplished something.

GIVE ONE REASON SOMEONE SHOULD TAKE OUR CLASSES

Girl Power!

INSIDE INFORMATION

FAVORITE COLOR – Blue

FAVORITE FOOD – Sushi and Mediterranean

FAVORITE MOVIE – Jaws and the Legend of Hell House

FAVORITE HOT BOY – Kevin Costner

FAVORITE LIPSTICK – Extreme Plumping Lip Gloss in Baby Pink by Victoria’s Secret

FAVORITE LOCAL SALON/SPA – The Image Salon (Jessica rocks!!!!)

FAVORITE DIET DRINK – Water

FAVORITE ANIMAL – Cat

FAVORITE PLACE TO DANCE – Duhhhh!!!!!

RIGHT NOW, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG TO DANCE TO

Stranglehold – Ted Nugent

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU LOVE BEST ABOUT STUDIO RIO

GIRL POWER!!!!!!!!!

Honey

HOW DID YOU JOIN THE STUDIO RIO FAMILY?

A girlfriend called and asked if I would take these Pole Classes with her. After a lot of nervous giggling, I decided, “what the heck, you only live once! I started in the B-Series….joined with as a yearly member, kept taking series classes and as many drop in classes and pole classes as my schedule would allow. Rio said to me one day “I’ve heard good things about you, come talk to me if you are interested in being an instructor.” My heart leapt – to have the opportunity to instill the kind of love and support that I have found at the studio thrilled me. I spoke to my husband and Rio has not been able to get rid of me since.

ONE WAY YOU HAVE CHANGED SINCE COMING ON BOARD

I’m much more comfortable in my own skin. This is the only vehicle you have to drive around in for your entire life….embrace it and love it!!! I’ve learned to enjoy every minute and appreciate what I have.

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF…

I’ve been married to my wonderful husband for 15 years, we have two little boys and I LOVE being a Mom!

GIVE ONE REASON SOMEONE SHOULD TAKE OUR CLASSES

So many things happen in life that make you feel alone, just because sometimes you think “this could only happen to me” but you know what…..its NOT just you! You will find someone here that is going through EXACTLY what you are going through and the best part is, they will share it with you. Yes, you can take Pole Fitness Classes, Pole Dancing Classes, Dance classes, Fitness Classes and everything in between but what sets Studio Rio apart from anywhere else in the world is the feeling of girl power and support.

INSIDE INFORMATION:

Favorite color: Purple but I wear black all the time
Favorite Food: STEAK
Favorite Hot Boy: My husband always, but if David Boreanez ever walked in the room….um, yeah
Favorite Lipstick: VS Hot Chocolate
Favorite Local Salon/Spa: Kate at HairCuttery….I know HairCuttery, but KATE is awesome!!!!!
Favorite Diet Drink: I hate “diet” stuff….but I will never turn down a cup of coffee
Favorite Animal: Kitty cats
Favorite Place to Dance: Studio Rio always!
RIGHT NOW, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG TO DANCE TO? Single Ladies, Beyonce
LET US KNOW WHAT YOU LOVE BEST ABOUT STUDIO RIO
My Girls!!!! I love having all these women in my life – I love having women to ask about life, clothes, poles and fitness!!!

Miami
HOW DID YOU JOIN THE STUDIO RIO FAMILY?
I stopped in one day when I was in the area and haven’t left since! I was looking for a new way to exercise and had been hearing a lot of good things about Studio Rio. I took a tour of the studio, signed up for membership right away, and came to classes like it was my job. Then it actually became my job when Rio asked me to teach. The only way I’m leaving now is if I’m on fire.
ONE WAY YOU HAVE CHANGED SINCE COMING ON BOARD
For one, I would like to state that this is a trick question because it is impossible to pick only one way Studio Rio has changed my life. Two main things have happened. ONE: I have learned to relax. I know, it sounds silly that a fitness studio has helped me relax but that is exactly what happened. Before Studio Rio, I was wound too tightly and didn’t know how to take time out for myself. The women here reminded that there is no point in living if you’re not having fun. Now, I have lightened up and learned that when all else fails, dance it out! TWO: Anyone who knows me will tell you I can be one of the biggest tomboys around. That’s fine and dandy, but at the end of the day I still want to be a woman for the man who loves me. This studio reminded me that being a woman is fun! Studio Rio made it ok again to be a girl, to be feminine, and to love every part of being a woman.
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF…
I am originally from Miami, Florida which is how I picked my dance name. I came to Virginia while serving in the military and fell in love with Virginia Beach. I now attend school full time, and the rest of my time is spent at Studio Rio, or with my fiancé and our two dogs. I have a background in cheerleading, boxing, and track, and have been dancing since I popped out of my momma’s belly.
GIVE ONE REASON SOMEONE SHOULD TAKE OUR CLASSES
Every woman deserves time to have fun with the girls, and there is finally a place where you can do that while getting thinner! I know, it sounds like a late night infomercial but it’s true. There is a reason our members never leave—once you are here, you are family. I have never seen so many girls get along so greatly. It is due to Studio Rio’s devotion to support every woman that walks through these doors. Come to our classes because you no longer need an excuse to spend time on you!
INSIDE INFORMATION:
Favorite color: Turquoise…but somehow I keep buying Pink!
Favorite Food: Sushi
Favorite Hot Boy: Jensen Ackles from Supernatural…He doesn’t know it but he loves me.
Favorite Lipstick: Sephora Lipgloss in Rosy Glow
Favorite Local Salon/Spa: Alex Garrow salon for my hair and Michelle Ford is my favorite aesthetician
Favorite Diet Drink: Don’t drink diet, but I love Redbull
Favorite Animal: Dog
Favorite Place to Dance: Studio Rio of course
RIGHT NOW, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG TO DANCE TO?
Sean Kingston, Fire Burning
LET US KNOW WHAT YOU LOVE BEST ABOUT STUDIO RIO
Hands down, the best part of Studio Rio is the girls that gather here. We have really good-hearted, fun-loving woman, and nothing is better than being surrounded by good people and great music. When I walk in the doors as Studio Rio, I know I am guaranteed at least a great laugh, and at most a great body. Everyone works together, encouraging each other to meet their goals. This makes it the ultimate buddy workout. We all want to see you succeed just as much as you want to see positive change in your body and in your life. Another thing I want to mention is that there is such a wide variety of classes that we truly have something for everyone’s taste…Oh, and it doesn’t hurt how HOT everyone looks in our lighting!

Foxxxy
How did you join the Studio Rio Family? We had just moved here due to the military. A month after we moved my husband went out to sea for 7 months. I did not know anyone in the city, and I wanted a hobby… something I could really enjoy. What better hobby than dancing. When I came to the studio I found more than just a few friends and a hobby. I found a family who builds you up and makes you feel beautiful. I also found a PASSION, not just a hobby. I am happier, and I feel I can handle stress so much better! Dancing here is an amazing stress reliever. It is a place to come and unwind after a long day at work. You can just get lost in the music. I love the girls and the feeling I get when I dance or accomplish a new move!

One way you have changed since coming on board? I started out as a student at the studio. When I started coming here I lost 40 pounds!!! But even more than that, I had never been so toned in my life. Before the studio, I exercised everyday and even taught traditional aerobics, but I had never gotten as fit as I did when I joined Studio Rio. Nothing ever made me as cut as this fantastic place. It was so easy to workout hard because I was having so much fun.

Tell us about yourself.

I’m from South Carolina. I have always loved to dance. I have taken dance for 12 years. Everything from Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Modern, and Ballet, but nothing was like this. I am currently pregnant with my first baby. I have enjoyed sharing this pregnancy with all the wonderful girls in my Studio Rio family. I have a Bachelors of Science and a Masters Degree in human nutrition, and I am here to answer any general nutrition questions the students may have.

Give one reason someone should take our classes.

It is a place just for you; a place to unwind and get into shape at the same time. Plus, where else can you workout to hip hop and country music; take salsa aerobics and weight lifting classes, and then work the muscles by pole dancing! And yes, You can even run on the treadmill.

Inside Information:
Favorite Color- Green
Favorite Food- Fried Okra
Favorite Movie- “Officer and a Gentleman,” Legally Blonde,” and any dance move
Favorite Hot Boy- My husband
Favorite Lipstick- Mystery
Favorite Local Salon/Spa- Shear Bliss
Favorite Diet Drink- Diet Coke with Lime (I miss drinking this while I am pregnant)
Favorite Animal- Pig
Favorite Place to Dance- Here of Course

Right now, what is your favorite song to dance to?
Apologize by One Republic and Billie Jean by Chris Cornell

Let us know what you love best about Studio Rio
The girls at the studio: Here is a letter I wrote the girls about how they helped me and have been there for me in tough times.

To the Girls,
My husband and family were far way during a tough time in my life; you were there. You were my safe haven. I give you a lot of credit for getting me through it all. I felt your support, and I immediately felt better when I was there. You girls have always been a shoulder to lean on. When my family lost their clothes in a fire, you were there donating bags and bags of clothes. You even offered to take a moving truck full of donations all the way to South Carolina! When none of MY clothes fit anymore (thanks to the great workouts), there you were donating bags and bags of clothes to ME!!!

I have only felt encouragement from you all. I have never felt judged. We see each other’s beauty, and we accept each other for who we are: our similarities and our differences. Everyone wants everyone to succeed. We celebrate and experience joy together when one of us grows or advances in our dancing.

And oh the fun I always have. From the giggles and girl talks during classes, to those “nonclasses”/casual moments, when we just hang out and help each other learn a new pole trick, we have some good times. Even when classes are not being held, I still often stop by and sit on one of the front desk stools just to visit. Through the giggles, trading clothes, talking, and practices, I just have so MUCH FUN!!!

Harlee

How did you join the Studio Rio family?

I was DJ’ing the Women’s Show back in Feb 2006, where the ladies of Studio Rio had a booth and were demonstrating the moves on stage. I was at the end of an awful relationship and was in desperate need of confidence…something these ladies oozed on stage. During the event, I went over to the booth and spoke with a girl, who I found out later was Nina, about the Studio. From that day, I was hooked!

One way you have changed since coming on board?

Confidence! Since coming to the Studio, I have gained the confidence and the belief that I can do anything, despite my size or short comings. All it takes is a little hard work and a killer pair of heels!

Tell us about yourself

I am a home grown gal, born in Norfolk & raised here in Virginia Beach. I have always loved music & wanted to be a DJ. My dream came true in 1994 where I started DJ’ing at a local radio station in Chesapeake, then went into Private Parties and Clubs in 2004 & finally, DJ of the Year in 2008! Since coming to the Studio, I have seen my performance as a DJ/Entertainer steadily improve. I went from a shy, nonsocial person, to an all out performer! I cannot thank all the ladies here at the Studio who have helped me discover the person I have always wanted to be!

Give one reason someone should take our classes?

I can’t give just one! Coming to the Studio, you will not only get the best work out of your life, you’ll find friends, confidants, but most of all, YOURSELF! You will learn (or remember) how sexy you can be. There is no limit as to what you can achieve. Studio Rio will help you find a new/improved, more wonderful you!

Inside info:

Favorite color: Blue / Purple
Favorite Food: Steak or chocolate
Favorite Movie: Howard the Duck-just kidding! I love just about any Romantic Comedy or Mystery themed movie out there.
Favorite Hot Boy: I love my Puerto Rican Chef, but I still lust over George Clooney every now & again
Favorite Lipstick:
Favorite Local Salon/Spa:
Favorite Diet Drink: Diet Sunkist
Favorite Animal: Cats, dogs, horses, anything you can snuggle next to.
Favorite place to dance: Studio Rio, where else?!

Right now, what is your favorite song to dance to?

I’ll Be – Edwin McCain
I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho) – Pitbull

Let us know what you love best about Studio Rio?

I get to play dress up, get a work out, and spend time with friends, all under 1 roof!

LUSHASS

HOW DID YOU JOIN THE STUDIO RIO FAMILY?

I came to the original Grand Opening and was instantly hooked. I signed up immediately and have been here ever since.

ONE WAY YOU HAVE CHANGED SINCE COMING ON BOARD

Well, there was that divorce….

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

I’ve always had a passion for animals and have been working with Wildlife for the past 10 years. Before that I worked as a Respiratory Therapist (even though I really wanted to be a Professional Ballerina!). I love to read, mess with computers, and study the paranormal.

GIVE ONE REASON SOMEONE SHOULD TAKE OUR CLASSES

Just one??? You’ll learn to move your body in ways you NEVER thought possible and THAT’S EXCITING!!!

INSIDE INFORMATION

FAVORITE COLOR – Yellow

FAVORITE FOOD – Anything loaded with sugar and fat works for me!!!

FAVORITE MOVIE – Who can choose? I’m a sucker for a surprise ending….

FAVORITE HOT BOY –James, of course!!! He’s clearly the HOTTEST!!!!

FAVORITE LIPSTICK – anything clear and glossy – I use it about every 10 minutes

FAVORITE LOCAL SALON/SPA – Twisted Sisters Salon – they know how to do the short hair right!

FAVORITE DIET DRINK – Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper

FAVORITE ANIMAL – All of them!!! But I have a special fondness for chickens, and cats, and parakeets, and…and….

FAVORITE PLACE TO DANCE – Studio Rio, naturally!!!

RIGHT NOW, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG TO DANCE TO

Petrified by Fort Minor – you can’t help but get moving when you hear it!

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU LOVE BEST ABOUT STUDIO RIO

There’s nothing like the feeling of connection and “home” I get here!!

VENUS

HOW DID YOU JOIN THE STUDIO RIO FAMILY?

I used to work with Rio at the hospital when she first opened up the studio. I had asked her if she needed help with the grand opening. She told me she needed someone to hang around while the flowers and food were being delivered. I ended up staying that night for the party. After a few glasses of wine I found myself swinging around on poles and rolling around on the ground in splits (something I haven’t done since high school). I had the best time! I couldn’t believe how friendly and fun the girls were who took Rio’s classes. They seemed to have glow to them and exhibited a sense of pride and confidence that I wanted, too. Needless to say, I never left the studio. I learned the routines and became infatuated with the poles. I think coming to the grand opening was one of the most life changing experiences I will always be thankful for.

ONE WAY YOU HAVE CHANGED SINCE COMING ON BOARD

I, like many women, was in a bad relationship. Before I joined the studio, I didn’t have a lot of confidence in myself. I couldn’t seem to think I was ever good enough. I was battling for attention and gratitude I thought I deserved but never got. Joining the studio helped not only to boost my own confidence, but it allowed me to help other girls feel good about themselves, too. In return, I ended up with the best rewards-confidence along with great friendships! (I don’t know what I would have ever done without you girls , and thank God for Rio! I always told her I think she is an angel who walks the earth.

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

I am originally from Muskegon, Michigan and moved here after I got married. When my marriage ended, I realized how great of friends I had made here. Therefore, I ended up staying. Not to mention I couldn’t leave the studio . I graduated last May from ODU with a degree in nursing and have been working at Virginia Beach General in the ER. Other than that, I love animals and love to socialize and be around people. Oh! And of course, dancing is my favorite past time!

GIVE ONE REASON SOMEONE SHOULD TAKE OUR CLASSES

I can’t really give just one reason to take our classes. Overall, these classes change the way you feel about yourself as well as change your body. Along with a great workout, you walk away with great memories and great friends. All the instructors here believe that no matter who the woman is……big, small, tall, or short-every woman is beautiful and everyone feels welcome here.

INSIDE INFORMATION:

FAVORITE COLOR: red (but I tend to wear a lot of black)

FAVORITE FOOD: potatoes- I like them any way they come!

FAVORITE MOVIE: don’t really have a favorite movie, but I love Sex and the City

FAVORITE HOT BOY: Matthew M.

FAVORITE LIPSTICK: I wear lots of light colored lip glosses

FAVORITE LOCAL SALON/SPA: no favorites just yet

FAVORITE DIET DRINK: water!

FAVORITE ANIMAL: dogs

FAVORITE PLACE TO DANCE: the studio of course

RIGHT NOW, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG TO DANCE TO?

I honestly don’t have a favorite song to dance to right now. I like to dance to music that suits my mood at the moment. I like all kinds of music. It all just depends on the song.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU LOVE BEST ABOUT STUDIO RIO

I love that the Studio was founded by the most inspiring, friendly, and sincere person that I was lucky enough to meet. Rio has the heart of gold and will go out of her way to be there for anyone who needs her. Her attitude and love for dancing is what made the studio what it is today, and what determines what it will become in the future. I believe that when people walk away from our classes (that Rio’s love went into developing), they walk away with a better feeling about themselves. They stand taller, walk prouder, and most importantly, smile more often. The feeling of the studio is addicting, and that feeling is what makes women want to keep coming back.

AMBER’S BIO

H – Once upon a time 5 years ago I was watching Oprah interview an actress by the name of Sheila Kelley who played a part in a movie as a Stripper. She loved the dancing and pole work so much she started a gym in LA called S factor. I immediately was interested in attending one of her workshops which cost thousands of dollars. Little did I know right about that same time Rio had Studio Rio already in the works here in Virginia Beach. A week or two after Rio opened the Studio I was signed up and addicted. I knew this was what I wanted to share with others.

O- Personally, StudioRio has become my second family and a way of life. Rio, the instructors, staff and students have touched my heart and will always be very special to me. Dancing has brought back the poise and flexibility I had lost touch with. Enjoying and loving a workout is the key to a successful fitness goal. Feeling sexy is the core in a woman’s life. StudioRio gives us the confidence and strength to be sexy and to “Bring it”.

T- I love teaching and helping others. You could say I wear many hats…I have a dance/gymnastics background from cheerleading, I’ve been a Certified fitness and advanced personal trainer for over 20 years back when leg warmers, thong leotards & tights were in. Showing my age. I’m currently a flight attendant instructor and service manager for a charter airline where I teach Safety, service, security and self defense. I’m also a CPR/First Aid instructor for the American Heart Association here in the Tidewater area. I enjoy hanging with my family and dogs at home or traveling and playing all over the world.

G – The reason I think a woman should take our classes is – Girl power all the way! Working out and having fun with some extraordinary beautiful women.

I – color- red food- Real Italian food and a good glass of wine Movie- 5th element Fav Hot boy-My man of course Lipstick = Mac Lipglass She loves candy Favorite Salon- Alex Garrow Hair Salon on Great Neck The girls Rock my hair! My diet drink – H2O Fav animal- My maltipoo Sophie Favorite place to dance – Anyplace there is good music and fun people. I would have to say my StudioRio.

R – Im a music geek, I love everything from Rock and hip hop to big band and country. Mostly Smooth sexy music.

L – The best part of Studio Rio is the LOVE WE SHARE FOR EACH OTHER. Every Girl shares her HEART AND SOUL with us to keep Rio’s dream alive and strong. So to all the Hot Girls – Rock on sisters and many thanks to our Beautiful Rio for sharing her dream with us.

MEADOW

HOW DID YOU JOIN THE STUDIO RIO FAMILY?

I started as a student and was kindly asked to teach

ONE WAY YOU HAVE CHANGED SINCE COMING ON BOARD

I’m more flexible and feel sexier

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

I’m a singer by trade and work too much!

GIVE ONE REASON SOMEONE SHOULD TAKE OUR CLASSES

A safe place to workout, feel sexy and laugh!

INSIDE INFORMATION

FAVORITE COLOR – Red

FAVORITE FOOD – Ice Cream

FAVORITE MOVIE – Waynes World

FAVORITE HOT BOY – My Man

FAVORITE LIPSTICK – do not have one

FAVORITE LOCAL SALON/SPA – do not have one

FAVORITE DIET DRINK – Water

FAVORITE ANIMAL – a snugglie one!

FAVORITE PLACE TO DANCE – Studio Rio

RIGHT NOW, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG TO DANCE TO

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU LOVE BEST ABOUT STUDIO RIO

No matter what is going on in my life, I have a family here and people that care. And I care so much about them!

BAD KITTY

HOW DID YOU JOIN THE STUDIO RIO FAMILY?

My hubby brought home the ad for Studio Rio but I did not want to go by myself. Then my girlfriend CiCi mentioned she wanted to go, so we both registered. Ever since we took the first class, we’ve been hooked.

ONE WAY YOU HAVE CHANGED SINCE COMING ON BOARD

I feel sexy and very confident dancing everywhere now.

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

I was born and raised in Germany, fell in love with my GI Oliver, got married and followed him to the United States. We lived in Charlotte, NC for 6 years, then moved up here to Virginia Beach and have been here ever since.

We are blessed with the two most wonderful sons any parent could hope for and yes we have had moments where it was very hard to be a parent…lol.

Both our sons are serving in the US Army, one with the 2ID and one with the 82 Airborne and I’m not just praying for my two sons, but for all our troops!

GIVE ONE REASON SOMEONE SHOULD TAKE OUR CLASSES

It is one great thing you can do for yourself and it is great for your body and soul.

INSIDE INFORMATION

FAVORITE COLOR – Blue

FAVORITE FOOD – Seafood and Chocolate

FAVORITE MOVIE –Fried Green Tomatoes

FAVORITE HOT BOY – Oliver…he has been the one for 30 years…I do lust a little every now and then after Mathew or Densel or Rob or David…*giggle*

FAVORITE LIPSTICK – L’Oreal – Colour Juice – Candy Apply

FAVORITE LOCAL SALON/SPA – Blue Lotus in Chesapeake

FAVORITE DIET DRINK – Perrier

FAVORITE ANIMAL – My monster dog Hayley

FAVORITE PLACE TO DANCE – No if ands or butts about it – Studio Rio

RIGHT NOW, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG TO DANCE TO

Anything by Christina Aguilera (slow or fast)

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU LOVE BEST ABOUT STUDIO RIO

The feeling I get right after I’ve finished a workout at the Studio, especially if I’ve done two or three classes in a row, because no matter how hard it was to get thru the classes IT WAS FUN!!!!