Story & Lesson Highlights With Rebecca Farrant of San Diego

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Rebecca Farrant. Check out our conversation below.

Good morning Rebecca, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
What’s often misunderstood about La Vie Dance Studio is that it’s “just a dance studio.” From the outside, it may look like a simple space where people rent a room to dance—but in reality, it’s so much more. Running this business is far from easy. Behind every event, class, and celebration is years of experience, planning, and a commitment to creating a welcoming and inspiring environment.

We’re not just providing rooms with mirrors; we’re building community, nurturing creativity, and supporting diverse cultures through movement, art, and celebration. It takes constant effort to market events, maintain the space, build partnerships, and adapt to the needs of our clients. Over the last 10 years, we’ve become a hub for artists, performers, and event hosts from all walks of life, and that’s what makes us unique.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m the founder of La Vie Dance Studios, a woman-owned creative hub in San Diego dedicated to celebrating dance, art, and community. Over the past 10 years, I’ve built more than just a studio—we’ve created a vibrant space where culture, creativity, and connection thrive. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of hosting everything from international dance workshops and charity galas to film shoots, weddings, and community festivals. What makes our brand unique is our versatility: we’re not just a place to dance, but a stage for people of all backgrounds to share their stories, talents, and celebrations. As we prepare to celebrate our 10-year anniversary, I’m especially proud of the diverse and dynamic community we’ve cultivated and the many projects we’ve brought to life together.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Bonds between people often break through misunderstanding, distance, or lack of connection. What restores them is shared experience—and this is where the arts, especially dance, have power. Dance transcends language, allowing people to connect through movement, rhythm, and emotion. It heals divides, invites empathy, and reminds us of our shared humanity. In this way, the arts and dance restore and strengthen the bonds that hold communities together.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there have been many times I nearly gave up. Building this business has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Enduring the daily challenges, financial risks, and the weight of every decision as a solo venture is no easy feat. But what kept me going was the passion, drive, and determination to create and sustain an open space for the community—a place where people can come together, connect, and celebrate through the arts and dance. That vision has always been stronger than the obstacles.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that what truly matters to me is authenticity—being real and genuine in all that I do. They would also highlight how deeply I value equality, making sure that everyone feels seen, respected, and included. Recognition of intelligent skills and artistic knowledge is also important to me, as I believe in honoring both the talent and the dedication behind creativity and expertise.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes, absolutely. I believe in giving my very best regardless of recognition because true strength of character is found in what you do when no one is watching. For me, it’s about carrying myself with grace and authenticity, knowing that my actions reflect who I am, not just what others see. The reward is in the integrity of the effort itself, not the praise that may or may not follow.