VAST-a multi-functional, open space for creatives

I think it is safe to say if anyone knows me, they know how, passionate about and dedicated to dance, that I am. Dance has been one of the very few constants in my life through childhood and adulthood, alike. As an adult, I have met some of my closest friends through dance; introduced some of my friends, their children and families to dance; been able to have opportunities to create - to foster, honor and expand my creative mind; have had an outlet that allows me to be present, in the moment, bringing me peace of mind and joy; And have worked tirelessly, to find ways to bring those same opportunities to others. Many have heard me say in the past, that I just want a space- a space for me and anyone else, to dance, when we want to dance, simply for the love of dance, and the fact that it makes us come alive!!!

Spaces like this don’t really exist, and while living in the DMV area, years of inflation followed by the pandemic downfalls has increased my awareness wholeheartedly. In the recent years, I have become even more aware of, not only the artistic enthusiasts, such as myself who find peace of mind through creating or being part of the creative process, but more substantially, professionals whose livelihood is based off providing, supporting, encouraging health, wellness, movement, art, etc. to others, do not have access to the same simple means that the business world does, in order to be successful.

This is when, myself and my dear friend and fellow dancer (a true inspiration to me), Joye Thomas, decided we wanted to do something to change this. Hence, we worked over the past couple years, tossing around ideas, dodging pandemically enhanced uncertainties and nuances, and adding to our already 12-hour long days, to develop the idea of VAST!

VAST is a multi-functional, open space for wellness, movement, health and fitness professionals, to create, maintain and fulfill their independent crafts. It is a space that is accessible and affordable for artists who just need an area to create, produce or share their next idea. An open, safe and clean space where health and wellness specialists who, (pre-COVID) were conducting business out of their home, and/or now are still conducting business virtually, can flourish and thrive based on the means and manners of life today.

With all that being said, not to mention, while STILL maintaining my teaching career and parttime jobs, Joye and I decided to take the risk and bring this VAST idea to fruition. Sure enough, after a lot of very unfamiliar work in the business world, we officially became a Limited Liability Company (LLC), filed for a business license in Arlington, and successfully leased a space to bring VAST to life.

I know I can speak for both Joye and I, when I say we are both so excited and extremely nervous about the venture we have taken on. Henceforth, we are reaching out to our loved ones to seek support in this endeavor. If there is anything you are willing to donate towards VAST, we will be eternally grateful, forever show our appreciation and promise to keep you at the forefront of our hearts and minds throughout this journey. Start-up costs for any business are no joke, factor in the rates of leasing, a space of any size in the DMV, we have a lot of expenses in front of us.

We did not take this on with the priority to make money though, our initial intent is and has been, to provide a space that is nonexistent yet entirely beneficial to creatives of several varying genres. Please consider donating towards this VAST quest of ours! Much love and appreciation for each and every one of you, always!