Being part of a Salsa world often feels like being in a movie. You've seen it a million times -- some main character walks into a lounge, kisses the host, says hi to the DJ, then hugs everyone they see on the way to a favorite couch, which is, of course, magically sitting empty in a full room because people know it's the characters' couch to occupy. I've always admired scenes like that, and now I feel like I'm living them pretty much on a daily basis. And it's awesome! It's being connected to people that's awesome. It's knowing enough of them to have someone comfortable to dance with no matter where you go. And it's those friends that I'd like to address in my "warmhearted" post today. Especially the leads.
Guys, once you are friends with a follow, the rest of the rules just don't apply. So whatever I said in any of my sarcastic posts, (although you should take SOME of it seriously,) most likely doesn't apply to you. Friends are the best thing about social dancing. And for anyone who forgets that in the name of extra-difficult moves and extra-many turns, life on the floor must be pretty darn sucky. Most likely they only have a couple follows/leads who they like dancing with, and most likely those people aren't out at all the same places they're at. Which would naturally make any person frustrated.
When you value friendships over moves though, the dance scene becomes an entirely different ball game! Walking into any venue has the most exhilarating vibe, because of all the warm fuzzy feelings that seeing friends evokes. Instead of being disappointed that there's "nobody to dance with" (in a room with at least a hundred people in it...), you are now just happy to see the people you love and value! And when the friendship bond is there, it really and truly doesn't matter how good or bad of a dancer a person is! Every dance is just a chance to bond more, and if something doesn't work out, it's amusing more than annoying. I'm definitely grateful for people like that in my life, because without them I'd not be out on the floor! We all make mistakes. Friends just cover them with good styling :)
So all my friends: thanks for being there to chat with, sit with, and dance with! You guys are the best, and I'm lucky enough to have too many of you to fit into a paragraph if I started listing! Much love!!!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
A Life Without Century Ballroom
It's a great day in the life of all the dancers in Seattle, because if it didn't happen some years ago, none of us would be where we are today. Although I've only been dancing for about six months, it's difficult for me to imagine a life without the magic of Century Ballroom. And Century Ballroom wouldn't have existed was it not for its owner -- Hallie. But let me try, and paint the picture for you...
You wake up in the morning, well rested from a good night of sleep. For the past several months you've had no trouble getting in 10+ hours every night. What else have you to do? You weigh 300 pounds and the weight has only been increasing since you've moved to this new town. The highlight of your week will be coffee with mom on a Saturday afternoon. Saturday night will be spent doing the same thing you've done every single night since you got here. Watching TV, eating, and browsing facebook, on which you are proud to be friends with 53 acquaintances, 52 of which you know from high school and college.
Your new, painstakingly made friend, is a barista from Starbucks that is located on the first level of your work building. She gave you her information because she regularly posts updates on facebook about her blog called "eco-friendly recycling." You love that blog. She is very knowledgeable about the subject, although sometimes you wish there was more humor and life in her writing (shameless self-promotion. hehe) You've been looking into taking dance lessons, but are afraid of making a fool of yourself. After all, the classes offered locally bring in no more than 10 people per session and are mostly geared towards professionals and children. And there aren't many around anyways. Seattle's not that big on dancing, other than maybe in dorm-rooms and privately held parties. But you are not a student anymore, and technically have no access to all the dancers and their social circles. Which leaves you nothing else but your couch, and food...
You wake up in the morning, well rested from a good night of sleep. For the past several months you've had no trouble getting in 10+ hours every night. What else have you to do? You weigh 300 pounds and the weight has only been increasing since you've moved to this new town. The highlight of your week will be coffee with mom on a Saturday afternoon. Saturday night will be spent doing the same thing you've done every single night since you got here. Watching TV, eating, and browsing facebook, on which you are proud to be friends with 53 acquaintances, 52 of which you know from high school and college.
Your new, painstakingly made friend, is a barista from Starbucks that is located on the first level of your work building. She gave you her information because she regularly posts updates on facebook about her blog called "eco-friendly recycling." You love that blog. She is very knowledgeable about the subject, although sometimes you wish there was more humor and life in her writing (shameless self-promotion. hehe) You've been looking into taking dance lessons, but are afraid of making a fool of yourself. After all, the classes offered locally bring in no more than 10 people per session and are mostly geared towards professionals and children. And there aren't many around anyways. Seattle's not that big on dancing, other than maybe in dorm-rooms and privately held parties. But you are not a student anymore, and technically have no access to all the dancers and their social circles. Which leaves you nothing else but your couch, and food...
The picture is grim and probably over-exaggerated a bit. But seriously, if there was no Century Ballroom, Seattle social dance scene would've been muuuch smaller, if existent at all. None of us would have 400 of our closest friends available to hug, listen, and take the mind off things at a moments notice. Nights would be passed painstakingly trying to think of what to do that's at least somewhat meaningful. The ones out would feel idly wasted anyways. Our friends would be all alike, and we'd have no social skills that are so helpful in other venues of life!
So Hallie, Happy Birthday, and thank you for making Century Ballroom happen. We appreciate your efforts, love the classes, and savor the dances. But most of all, we cherish the lifelong friendships made on the floor of Century, that would not have happened, if it wasn't for you.
THANK YOU!!!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Things to Do Before You Dance
If you are an absolute beginner, or a completely clueless intermediate who can't put two-and-two together, read this, to make your dancing experience... more balanced. It didn't take that long for me to figure all this out, but some trial and error that you can eliminate, was still required. To have a good Salsa night you need a good combination of five factors: Food, Water, Rest, Clothes and Music.
Food
As basic as this is, the wrong state of hunger can ruin the best night. You gotta eat before you go dancing! Make sure you have a nice dinner about 3 hours prior to going out, and snack on something right before. (And not the other way around!) This was tricky for me, because I've had nights when I just wasn't aware of how hungry I was until stepping on the dance floor and feeling faint from disorientation. (And as of yesterday, still do apparently..) Want a good dance night? Remember to eat. But make sure you don't overstuff yourself. For various reasons that I'm not going to go into detail about here, you just shouldn't do that. One of them is feeling like you're carrying a "food baby." You want to feel light and graceful on the dance floor, right? Not gonna happen after a hefty dinner out. So don't do it.
Water
There's always a place to get free water around the dancefloor. You just gotta find it. But DO find it. Without it you're gonna suffer.
Rest
Don't even think about tryin to dance half-awake. You're just not gonna be on top of your game, which will spoil your night and dancing experience, and you don't want that, right? Don't hope for leads to have a nice, relaxing, dance with either. Most likely instead you will get the "keep her on her toes" kind that will spin, twist, and otherwise lead you in an utterly un-relaxing way.
Clothes
Let's see... I'm a girl, so this is for girls. The best thing to wear is something sleeveless. And I do feel bad for guys, cuz ultimately that would be the best thing for them too. Except there's nothing sleeveless they can wear that won't make them look stupid. Luckily, that's not the case for the ladies! MUAHHAHAHAHA. (jk) So we've determined that what you're wearing is sleeveless. But make sure it's not strapless. Make sure EVERYTHING you're wearing is not strapless. Because strapless things tend to... betray its owners once in a while. Trust me, no matter how sure you are that it's staying on at home, the risk is just not worth it. I have seen it all, and unfortunately I HAVE had a small incident myself as well. But I don't want to mention it.
Unless your underwear is the best thing that has ever happened to everyone (I highly doubt it), please also spin-proof what you're wearing on the bottom. Some longer dresses and skirts actually spin out all the way, showing the world way more than it wants to see. Shorter ones are actually ideal -- as long as they stay on. And i'd wear dance shorts underneath to incident-proof your experience. Short stuff is dangerous when you get dipped, especially in the beginning before you know how to get dipped the right way.
After making sure that your dignity is covered, it's pretty much up to you. Some places just ask for dressing up. In Seattle, that's Teatro Zinzanni and Saturday night Century dances. Practicas are definitely usually more laid back. The rest of the places you can show up however you'd like. You won't feel out of place either way. Make sure what you're wearing is comfortable though. You don't want to even think about the tag irritaing your skin or the material being scratchy when you're dancing.
Music
Figure out what you like and what you dont. Don't go to places with the music you don't like. You're guaranteed to have a horrible time. I'm not gonna say what's good music and what's bad music, just because I know that there are SO many different opinions on that out there! Some people like live. Some people hate it. Some people like specific DJ's. Some can't stand them. Pay attention and remember. Century Ballroom actually lists the DJ's on it's calendar. http://www.centuryballroom.com/ Look before you go and prevent yourself from wasting money and time on a night that's not gonna go well because of what's playing.
This is all basic stuff, but if you're aware of it, it can make your experience a million times better, and practically guarantee you a good night! (This, and actually being able to dance well. But follows have it easy. Just having a good smile will due in most cases. And least for a little while.)
Food
As basic as this is, the wrong state of hunger can ruin the best night. You gotta eat before you go dancing! Make sure you have a nice dinner about 3 hours prior to going out, and snack on something right before. (And not the other way around!) This was tricky for me, because I've had nights when I just wasn't aware of how hungry I was until stepping on the dance floor and feeling faint from disorientation. (And as of yesterday, still do apparently..) Want a good dance night? Remember to eat. But make sure you don't overstuff yourself. For various reasons that I'm not going to go into detail about here, you just shouldn't do that. One of them is feeling like you're carrying a "food baby." You want to feel light and graceful on the dance floor, right? Not gonna happen after a hefty dinner out. So don't do it.
Water
There's always a place to get free water around the dancefloor. You just gotta find it. But DO find it. Without it you're gonna suffer.
Rest
Don't even think about tryin to dance half-awake. You're just not gonna be on top of your game, which will spoil your night and dancing experience, and you don't want that, right? Don't hope for leads to have a nice, relaxing, dance with either. Most likely instead you will get the "keep her on her toes" kind that will spin, twist, and otherwise lead you in an utterly un-relaxing way.
Clothes
Let's see... I'm a girl, so this is for girls. The best thing to wear is something sleeveless. And I do feel bad for guys, cuz ultimately that would be the best thing for them too. Except there's nothing sleeveless they can wear that won't make them look stupid. Luckily, that's not the case for the ladies! MUAHHAHAHAHA. (jk) So we've determined that what you're wearing is sleeveless. But make sure it's not strapless. Make sure EVERYTHING you're wearing is not strapless. Because strapless things tend to... betray its owners once in a while. Trust me, no matter how sure you are that it's staying on at home, the risk is just not worth it. I have seen it all, and unfortunately I HAVE had a small incident myself as well. But I don't want to mention it.
Unless your underwear is the best thing that has ever happened to everyone (I highly doubt it), please also spin-proof what you're wearing on the bottom. Some longer dresses and skirts actually spin out all the way, showing the world way more than it wants to see. Shorter ones are actually ideal -- as long as they stay on. And i'd wear dance shorts underneath to incident-proof your experience. Short stuff is dangerous when you get dipped, especially in the beginning before you know how to get dipped the right way.
After making sure that your dignity is covered, it's pretty much up to you. Some places just ask for dressing up. In Seattle, that's Teatro Zinzanni and Saturday night Century dances. Practicas are definitely usually more laid back. The rest of the places you can show up however you'd like. You won't feel out of place either way. Make sure what you're wearing is comfortable though. You don't want to even think about the tag irritaing your skin or the material being scratchy when you're dancing.
Music
Figure out what you like and what you dont. Don't go to places with the music you don't like. You're guaranteed to have a horrible time. I'm not gonna say what's good music and what's bad music, just because I know that there are SO many different opinions on that out there! Some people like live. Some people hate it. Some people like specific DJ's. Some can't stand them. Pay attention and remember. Century Ballroom actually lists the DJ's on it's calendar. http://www.centuryballroom.com/ Look before you go and prevent yourself from wasting money and time on a night that's not gonna go well because of what's playing.
This is all basic stuff, but if you're aware of it, it can make your experience a million times better, and practically guarantee you a good night! (This, and actually being able to dance well. But follows have it easy. Just having a good smile will due in most cases. And least for a little while.)
A Map of Century Ballroom
If you are brand new and haven't been out yet, for goodness sake don't read this post just yet! Enjoy, for as long as you can, the blissful unawareness of any kind of division going on in the room. Once you catch on by yourself... Stop by here again and get clued in on what exactly is going on. Below, is a map of century ballroom, along with an explanation of what each section means, who dances in it, and how to behave while passing through/picking a spot to settle in. I would like to thank the contributors to this post. Adrian and Anna, without you, I wouldn't have quite been able to navigate.
Ok, so let's get right to the explanations. Of course, the map is not drawn to scale, and I have zero graphic design skill, but for its purpose, the map will do fine. Each area corresponds to the color of its letter. The light blue round things are fans. Think of them as landmarks. The areas, of course, are not exclusive to their "owners." So watch out for the creeps lurking all around the ballroom and wandering into ALL areas -- claimed or not.
A
This area runs in front of the DJ booth and up to the beginning of the stairs leading on stage. We call it the "Somos-El-Son Headquarters." It's where the performing wonders of Seattle and their friends reside. Venture in if you are a really good follow, or if you are brave out of your mind. Both instructors from the group also double as DJ's. When the stars align just right, the "mighty," perched up on his pedestal, might come down and dance with the mere mortals below. But the chosen ones will most likely be their dance partner, spouse, or student. So don't hold your breath on getting a random dance with them. Of course there's a natural explanation for the location. The team members, studio followers, friends, and family are all there to support the DJ. When neither is DJ'ing, it's out of habit. It's a tight group to get through to, but has the most awesome people in it, once you get to know them. If you stick around for long enough, the SomosElSomers will start "practicing" their routine. Watch the show while it lasts! They're magnificent! And if you ARE lucky enough to get a dance with anyone sitting and standing in a straight row from the fan to the stage stairs, consider yourself blessed.
B
This is the "Pro's Performance Corner." As the title suggests, this is where the many different Pro's abide and show off their skill. It's the home of teachers, performers, and serious Salsa addicts. If you are a visiting Pro, this is where you belong (and will most likely be taken by your hosting Pro friends). If you are not a visiting Pro, keep walking until you hit a neutral space a little further off. Because if you don't have the skills to dance with the leads in that corner, you'll walk away from their dances mortified and embarrassed. It's true that they teach that a good lead adjusts to his follows' level. But the thing is that Century is not the place where they want to adjust. It's a place where they show the world what they've got. I'd suggest practicing with them at another venue first (not SeeSound...) before accepting a dance from a Pro at Century. Otherwise you might fall on your face right in front of a heavy crowd, readily stationed in that corner to observe the Pros.
This corner also hosts "Becka Line" -- the space in which you may be lucky enough to spot a firey vixen styling with out-of-this-world energy and joy. You can't miss Becka, if she's there. Some follows are good. Becka is another level. She's the one who'll grab your attention and keep it all the while she's on the floor, making you forget why you came there. And I should probably dedicate an entire post to her, since I am having real trouble narrowing down all the good things I have to say about this amazing lady.
C
Never quite stationary, and always lurking on the lookout for prey, the Creeps tend to navigate towards this space a little more heavily than anywhere else in the room. They know that this is where the good follows wait for the Pro's to ask them. Not only that, but they've figured out that the person they are stalking WILL have to come here at some point of the night to get water. The difference between a Creep and a Pro is easily detectable. If you didn't just see this guy do seventeen spins right in front of you, and he all of a sudden grew out of nowhere in front of your face, beware! He's NOT a Pro! This area is generally safe to be in if you are there with friends who are readily available to stage a "serious conversation" as soon as they see a Creep approach. Stay away if you have a weak nervous system or trouble saying "no" to people.
D
This is a pretty large space dedicated entirely to beginners. It's unclear exactly why the beginners chose this space. But my guess is that it's because they are afraid to venture deeper into the ballroom after checking their coat and descending from the stairs. This is probably the friendliest space in the ballroom. It has no barriers or expectations. And no, not everyone there is a beginner. Some people are quite good, especially considering that a lot of students don't even find out about social dancing until after they've finished their first set of class. And most class-takers don't get the guts to go to Century until the end of their second class session. But most importantly, it's a section very dear to each and every Seattle Salsero/a's heart. Because that's where all of us started. That's where the Social part of Social Dancing plays out the most. And that's the reason that once in a while you'll see a Pro get lost in the sea of beginners. He or She is out here to reminisce about the time when it all was simple, uncomplicated, new, exciting and innocent. And to give the timid beginners a chance, because someone was kind enough to give it to them when they were just starting.
E
This is the tiny space of the Lost Cuban Dancers who are unaware that they are in a ballroom. Young and Old, (and not necessarily from Cuba -- I am talking about the style of dance, not the nationality!) they stand in front of the window and watch for passing victims. If you are aware that the dance is different than ballroom, and know how it works, definitely dance with them! But if you aren't too much into arm-twisting and repetitiveness... pass the space with your head down, avoiding all eye contact. Just look straight ahead into the next section. That's a safe one.
F
This section is safe because no one has been quite able to identify who the "owner" of it is. This is a grey area. There isn't one face that's permanently associated with the space. It hosts new people every time. I want to say that this is where the ones who came to watch the dancing, plop themselves down. Because the tables are abundant, and far enough away from the dance floor to be able to "hide-out." But it also safely hosts people who are really good, but unwilling or unable to associate themselves with any other "crowd." Pro's occasionally venture in as well, either because they need more space, or because they need a different audience. Or because they came with a girlfriend who's not as good, and don't want to embarrass her in front of the expectant crowd at their regular base, which is very nice of them. Basically, this is a very neutral space to be in. Go here if you're trying to preserve yourself as an individual. Don't go here if you're trying to get "noticed."
G
And last, but not least, welcome to the area of happy intermediates & good follows. All these people are sitting on stage or on the stairs and taking a break while chatting to each other about class and the weekend. But they are ready to get down and dance at a moments' notice. They have more skill than the beginners, but aren't quite at the level of the Pro's just yet. Some people stay in this area for life, simply because they're out to have fun, and not to perform. It's extremely non-threatening, and carries a very joyous energy. The area extends into the beginner section for a very practical reason: there's a fan over there. And everyone wants some of it.
I hope that this map helps you get a little more acquainted with the space that's central to Seattle Salsa scene. I have to say though, that this was intended to be more of an entertainment piece than rules to live by. As always, views presented in the post are solely my opinion, and don't have to be shared by anyone else. And if you read this before you became aware of it yourself, I'm sorry that I spoiled your stage of innocence. But don't worry. It only gets better from here ;)
Ok, so let's get right to the explanations. Of course, the map is not drawn to scale, and I have zero graphic design skill, but for its purpose, the map will do fine. Each area corresponds to the color of its letter. The light blue round things are fans. Think of them as landmarks. The areas, of course, are not exclusive to their "owners." So watch out for the creeps lurking all around the ballroom and wandering into ALL areas -- claimed or not.
A
This area runs in front of the DJ booth and up to the beginning of the stairs leading on stage. We call it the "Somos-El-Son Headquarters." It's where the performing wonders of Seattle and their friends reside. Venture in if you are a really good follow, or if you are brave out of your mind. Both instructors from the group also double as DJ's. When the stars align just right, the "mighty," perched up on his pedestal, might come down and dance with the mere mortals below. But the chosen ones will most likely be their dance partner, spouse, or student. So don't hold your breath on getting a random dance with them. Of course there's a natural explanation for the location. The team members, studio followers, friends, and family are all there to support the DJ. When neither is DJ'ing, it's out of habit. It's a tight group to get through to, but has the most awesome people in it, once you get to know them. If you stick around for long enough, the SomosElSomers will start "practicing" their routine. Watch the show while it lasts! They're magnificent! And if you ARE lucky enough to get a dance with anyone sitting and standing in a straight row from the fan to the stage stairs, consider yourself blessed.
B
This is the "Pro's Performance Corner." As the title suggests, this is where the many different Pro's abide and show off their skill. It's the home of teachers, performers, and serious Salsa addicts. If you are a visiting Pro, this is where you belong (and will most likely be taken by your hosting Pro friends). If you are not a visiting Pro, keep walking until you hit a neutral space a little further off. Because if you don't have the skills to dance with the leads in that corner, you'll walk away from their dances mortified and embarrassed. It's true that they teach that a good lead adjusts to his follows' level. But the thing is that Century is not the place where they want to adjust. It's a place where they show the world what they've got. I'd suggest practicing with them at another venue first (not SeeSound...) before accepting a dance from a Pro at Century. Otherwise you might fall on your face right in front of a heavy crowd, readily stationed in that corner to observe the Pros.
This corner also hosts "Becka Line" -- the space in which you may be lucky enough to spot a firey vixen styling with out-of-this-world energy and joy. You can't miss Becka, if she's there. Some follows are good. Becka is another level. She's the one who'll grab your attention and keep it all the while she's on the floor, making you forget why you came there. And I should probably dedicate an entire post to her, since I am having real trouble narrowing down all the good things I have to say about this amazing lady.
C
Never quite stationary, and always lurking on the lookout for prey, the Creeps tend to navigate towards this space a little more heavily than anywhere else in the room. They know that this is where the good follows wait for the Pro's to ask them. Not only that, but they've figured out that the person they are stalking WILL have to come here at some point of the night to get water. The difference between a Creep and a Pro is easily detectable. If you didn't just see this guy do seventeen spins right in front of you, and he all of a sudden grew out of nowhere in front of your face, beware! He's NOT a Pro! This area is generally safe to be in if you are there with friends who are readily available to stage a "serious conversation" as soon as they see a Creep approach. Stay away if you have a weak nervous system or trouble saying "no" to people.
D
This is a pretty large space dedicated entirely to beginners. It's unclear exactly why the beginners chose this space. But my guess is that it's because they are afraid to venture deeper into the ballroom after checking their coat and descending from the stairs. This is probably the friendliest space in the ballroom. It has no barriers or expectations. And no, not everyone there is a beginner. Some people are quite good, especially considering that a lot of students don't even find out about social dancing until after they've finished their first set of class. And most class-takers don't get the guts to go to Century until the end of their second class session. But most importantly, it's a section very dear to each and every Seattle Salsero/a's heart. Because that's where all of us started. That's where the Social part of Social Dancing plays out the most. And that's the reason that once in a while you'll see a Pro get lost in the sea of beginners. He or She is out here to reminisce about the time when it all was simple, uncomplicated, new, exciting and innocent. And to give the timid beginners a chance, because someone was kind enough to give it to them when they were just starting.
E
This is the tiny space of the Lost Cuban Dancers who are unaware that they are in a ballroom. Young and Old, (and not necessarily from Cuba -- I am talking about the style of dance, not the nationality!) they stand in front of the window and watch for passing victims. If you are aware that the dance is different than ballroom, and know how it works, definitely dance with them! But if you aren't too much into arm-twisting and repetitiveness... pass the space with your head down, avoiding all eye contact. Just look straight ahead into the next section. That's a safe one.
F
This section is safe because no one has been quite able to identify who the "owner" of it is. This is a grey area. There isn't one face that's permanently associated with the space. It hosts new people every time. I want to say that this is where the ones who came to watch the dancing, plop themselves down. Because the tables are abundant, and far enough away from the dance floor to be able to "hide-out." But it also safely hosts people who are really good, but unwilling or unable to associate themselves with any other "crowd." Pro's occasionally venture in as well, either because they need more space, or because they need a different audience. Or because they came with a girlfriend who's not as good, and don't want to embarrass her in front of the expectant crowd at their regular base, which is very nice of them. Basically, this is a very neutral space to be in. Go here if you're trying to preserve yourself as an individual. Don't go here if you're trying to get "noticed."
G
And last, but not least, welcome to the area of happy intermediates & good follows. All these people are sitting on stage or on the stairs and taking a break while chatting to each other about class and the weekend. But they are ready to get down and dance at a moments' notice. They have more skill than the beginners, but aren't quite at the level of the Pro's just yet. Some people stay in this area for life, simply because they're out to have fun, and not to perform. It's extremely non-threatening, and carries a very joyous energy. The area extends into the beginner section for a very practical reason: there's a fan over there. And everyone wants some of it.
I hope that this map helps you get a little more acquainted with the space that's central to Seattle Salsa scene. I have to say though, that this was intended to be more of an entertainment piece than rules to live by. As always, views presented in the post are solely my opinion, and don't have to be shared by anyone else. And if you read this before you became aware of it yourself, I'm sorry that I spoiled your stage of innocence. But don't worry. It only gets better from here ;)
Where Did I Get My Dance Shoes?
Falling apart in more than one place, making me think that $60.00 was a price way too high for them, my dance shoes lately have been drawing unparalleled attention. Not even nearly as cute at this point as they were when they were brand new, they have generated five "where'd you get your shoes?" questions in the past week alone. My answer is usually a look of loss, since not only do I not remember for sure where exactly online I got them, but the websites I browsed have names that only Mary Poppins can beat with her long word. To avoid that lost feeling, I figured I'll once and for all look up the websites and post the links to them on here. Get people some shoes as well as laughs (hopefully.)
What you gotta do is go to http://www.latindancefashions.com/, a website full of pretty pictures of pretty goodies. It's organized so well, that you can spend hours browsing it, just for fun. The shoes are sorted by color, heel height, and style. It's probably the easiest place to find the style you're looking for and fall in love with it. But before you click "checkout," stop yourself. $89.00 for a pair of dance shoes is just not frugal when you can get the same pair for a WAY smaller price. So write down the number of the style of shoe that you like, and do the following: Check e-bay first. Although they don't carry as wide a selection of styles, if you're lucky, and they have the color and size you want, you'll be golden and snatch them up for as low as $35.00! No luck there? Go to http://www.exoticsalsashoes.com/. Their website is next to impossible to navigate, but luckily you already know exactly what you want. Type the style number in the "quick find" box on the left. They have almost everything, and their price is usually around $50.00-$60.00.
One piece of advise I'll give you though: do take the time to try on some styles in dance stores, at least to figure out your size. Remember the brands that felt most comfortable. If you can, stop by Experience Dance Shoes (912 Alaskan Way) in Seattle. The owner, Jim Hadley, is the sweetest guy ever, who will be able to analyze your feet and tell you what looks good and what doesn't. He's the one who figured out that I have an extra-long toe and can't wear shoes that have too big of an opening because it sticks out like a soar spot. But do know what you want. The shoes that he brands are extra-comfortable and an extra-good fit, so if you know you'll be doing Salsa for life, they're a very good investment. Unfortunately Jim and Mine sense of "cute" didn't quite match up, and I wasn't able to fall in love with anything in his store. But he's pretty much the reason I now own shoes that are comfortable, look good, and fit my foot structure. His website is http://www.experiencedanceshoe.com/.
This said, I would like to address you, person who likes my shoes. Although I'm flattered that you like my style and color choice, it took me forever to find it. I went to about six dance shoe stores before and took hours trying on different styles and looking for something "cute." Stylish is practically nonexistent in dance shoe world for some reason. At least "stylish" in the mind of a fashion conscious 23 year old vs. a glitter-happy first grader. Needless to say, I am a little protective of them (although I don't want to claim exclusive ownership because they ARE mass produced...) But if you are set on the style, please at least consider getting them in another color and vice versa. And getting a different size doesn't count! But o.k., I'll be nice. If your heart is absolutely set on exactly the same color and style, it's 2707 in Brown Satin (pic below). Enjoy your shopping!
What you gotta do is go to http://www.latindancefashions.com/, a website full of pretty pictures of pretty goodies. It's organized so well, that you can spend hours browsing it, just for fun. The shoes are sorted by color, heel height, and style. It's probably the easiest place to find the style you're looking for and fall in love with it. But before you click "checkout," stop yourself. $89.00 for a pair of dance shoes is just not frugal when you can get the same pair for a WAY smaller price. So write down the number of the style of shoe that you like, and do the following: Check e-bay first. Although they don't carry as wide a selection of styles, if you're lucky, and they have the color and size you want, you'll be golden and snatch them up for as low as $35.00! No luck there? Go to http://www.exoticsalsashoes.com/. Their website is next to impossible to navigate, but luckily you already know exactly what you want. Type the style number in the "quick find" box on the left. They have almost everything, and their price is usually around $50.00-$60.00.
One piece of advise I'll give you though: do take the time to try on some styles in dance stores, at least to figure out your size. Remember the brands that felt most comfortable. If you can, stop by Experience Dance Shoes (912 Alaskan Way) in Seattle. The owner, Jim Hadley, is the sweetest guy ever, who will be able to analyze your feet and tell you what looks good and what doesn't. He's the one who figured out that I have an extra-long toe and can't wear shoes that have too big of an opening because it sticks out like a soar spot. But do know what you want. The shoes that he brands are extra-comfortable and an extra-good fit, so if you know you'll be doing Salsa for life, they're a very good investment. Unfortunately Jim and Mine sense of "cute" didn't quite match up, and I wasn't able to fall in love with anything in his store. But he's pretty much the reason I now own shoes that are comfortable, look good, and fit my foot structure. His website is http://www.experiencedanceshoe.com/.
This said, I would like to address you, person who likes my shoes. Although I'm flattered that you like my style and color choice, it took me forever to find it. I went to about six dance shoe stores before and took hours trying on different styles and looking for something "cute." Stylish is practically nonexistent in dance shoe world for some reason. At least "stylish" in the mind of a fashion conscious 23 year old vs. a glitter-happy first grader. Needless to say, I am a little protective of them (although I don't want to claim exclusive ownership because they ARE mass produced...) But if you are set on the style, please at least consider getting them in another color and vice versa. And getting a different size doesn't count! But o.k., I'll be nice. If your heart is absolutely set on exactly the same color and style, it's 2707 in Brown Satin (pic below). Enjoy your shopping!
Monday, September 21, 2009
What She Says vs. What She Means: A guide to being "politely" turned down.
First, I would like to assure my readers that opinions and sarcastic things said in this or any other post I may write are by no means meant to offend! They are meant to entertain. Any similarity to this really going on in anyone's head (including mine) is pure coincidence! And social dancing is meant to be exactly that -- social. We should all be nice to each other, first and foremost, and I'm the biggest believer in that in real life! That said, I'll still proceed with my sarcastic tale...
Salseros... by the time it's been six months on the floor, we, follows, have turning you down, down to an art. (Wow, never thought I'd be using the word "down" twice in a row...). Of course, continuous rejection sometimes leaves you with some questions -- I'll answer those at the end. For now, let's see what we mean when we say 'no' in the many different ways:
1. No Thank You -- I don't even care enough about you to come up with a good excuse. Get away, and never ask me again.
2. No, but thanks for asking -- You seem like a good guy. But your dancing sucks. And unfortunately, I'm here to dance.
3. My feet hurt -- I feel bad turning you down for any number of reasons: I've danced with you before, you evoke a strong sense of pity, you're very old and respectable looking, I don't mind dancing with you at practice but tonight I just want to have fun, you're not good enough YET but you will be and then I don't want to miss out.... Here's the secret: feet start hurting the moment we walk off the floor. They never hurt ON it. Unless someone has severely injured us. And I mean like broke our ankle, the bone is showing, and there's blood all over the place kind of "severely".
4. I'm sorry, I'm talking to my friends -- I'm sorry, I'm talking to my friends, who've been strategically placed there to start a "serious" conversation the moment they see you approach. They've been warned that you won't go away and stalk me all around the floor until you finally find a the moment I'm not paying attention. Please stop asking!
5. I'm sorry, I'm with my girls -- I'm with my girls here waiting for someone good to ask me to dance. I've been trying to make eye contact with him the whole night, and you just messed it up by catching me off guard. Now he'll see me reject you and get scared. But I have to reject you because I don't want to dance with anyone but him and he needs to know that.
6. I'm leaving -- I'm leaving because it looks like there aren't any more good leads left on the floor, so there's no point of staying. Trust me, if someone I was dying to dance with asked me, I'd dance in flip-flops!
7. I don't dance bachata. Please ask me for a Salsa. -- I don't dance bachata with strangers because they might want to grind me like a piece of meat. I dance it with close friends who know to stay a little further away. But hey, it's like you got an automatic "yes" for next song! Come up and ask again, and I bet ya anything you won't get rejected.
8. I don't dance Salsa, please ask me for a Tango. -- I'm in a sarcastic mood and my friends will get a kick out of this.
9. Let's ask the magic eight ball -- Let's ask the magic eight ball and hope it says "don't bet on it." (Or, if I actually have a magic eight ball in my hands... I'm the biggest dork ever and am trying to make you laugh).
10. I need to use the restroom -- Luck had it that I was moving in the direction where the restrooms are located. Then you asked me, so now I have to actually walk in there. I'm hoping in the meantime you'll find someone else to dance with. And if you don't, I'll have to stay in there until the song is very close to its end, so that I won't have to dance an entire one with you.
11. I have to put a band-aid on. -- I have to take off my shoes really slowly, take my time putting the band-aid on, and hope that you get tired of waiting.
12. I have to put a band-aid on, I'll be right back! -- Wait for me so that I don't look like an idiot standing up and looking around once I'm done.
13. I need a break -- Unless I'm taking out my inhaler... I NEVER need a break! However, I do need a break from you.
14. I need a drink -- I need a drink and the opportunity to get lost in the crowd around the water the moment you take your watchful eyes off me.
Questions that seem to get asked over and over again after rejection and answers to them, once and for all.
1. Would you like to dance? (next song. and the next one. and the next one...)
Dude. If I've rejected you for more than three songs, especially in a row... I NEVER want to dance with you!
2. Why do you hate me?
Well, there could be a number of reasons... Just kidding. I wouldn't really call it hate, since you've technically done nothing bad except make me feel extremely uncomfortable dancing with you. And you keep making me feel more and more uncomfortable by asking this stupid, immature, question, thus killing any chances for pity that you had left.
3. Why not?
Um, do you really want to know why I don't wanna dance with you? Ok. Here's a list of potential reasons:
My intuition is telling me not to. You smell bad. You can't dance. You can't dance with me. You are too touchy. You are off beat. You are creeping me out. You stare at me in a weird way. You stare at me in the wrong place. You are too tall. You are too short. You (apparently) can't count till 8. You announced that in a week I will be your girlfriend (fat chance.) You announced that in a week I will be your wife (ask me again and in a week I'll be your first lawsuit for a restraining order.) You spin me too much. You don't believe me when I say I don't know how to do this move. You don't believe me when I say I've been dancing for under a year and bend me over backwards, hurting my back. You hurt my arms (and no, it's NOT my frame! I have the same frame with the rest of the floor and noone else has twisted them out like that.) You look like a retard when you dance and I don't wanna laugh in your face. You only care about yourself when you dance and I feel... left out. You try advanced moves on me that I can't POSSIBLY do yet, which makes me feel like a complete retard. You dipped me and I fell. You look completely disinterested in our dance. You aren't looking in my eyes. Those aren't my eyes.
Salseros... by the time it's been six months on the floor, we, follows, have turning you down, down to an art. (Wow, never thought I'd be using the word "down" twice in a row...). Of course, continuous rejection sometimes leaves you with some questions -- I'll answer those at the end. For now, let's see what we mean when we say 'no' in the many different ways:
1. No Thank You -- I don't even care enough about you to come up with a good excuse. Get away, and never ask me again.
2. No, but thanks for asking -- You seem like a good guy. But your dancing sucks. And unfortunately, I'm here to dance.
3. My feet hurt -- I feel bad turning you down for any number of reasons: I've danced with you before, you evoke a strong sense of pity, you're very old and respectable looking, I don't mind dancing with you at practice but tonight I just want to have fun, you're not good enough YET but you will be and then I don't want to miss out.... Here's the secret: feet start hurting the moment we walk off the floor. They never hurt ON it. Unless someone has severely injured us. And I mean like broke our ankle, the bone is showing, and there's blood all over the place kind of "severely".
4. I'm sorry, I'm talking to my friends -- I'm sorry, I'm talking to my friends, who've been strategically placed there to start a "serious" conversation the moment they see you approach. They've been warned that you won't go away and stalk me all around the floor until you finally find a the moment I'm not paying attention. Please stop asking!
5. I'm sorry, I'm with my girls -- I'm with my girls here waiting for someone good to ask me to dance. I've been trying to make eye contact with him the whole night, and you just messed it up by catching me off guard. Now he'll see me reject you and get scared. But I have to reject you because I don't want to dance with anyone but him and he needs to know that.
6. I'm leaving -- I'm leaving because it looks like there aren't any more good leads left on the floor, so there's no point of staying. Trust me, if someone I was dying to dance with asked me, I'd dance in flip-flops!
7. I don't dance bachata. Please ask me for a Salsa. -- I don't dance bachata with strangers because they might want to grind me like a piece of meat. I dance it with close friends who know to stay a little further away. But hey, it's like you got an automatic "yes" for next song! Come up and ask again, and I bet ya anything you won't get rejected.
8. I don't dance Salsa, please ask me for a Tango. -- I'm in a sarcastic mood and my friends will get a kick out of this.
9. Let's ask the magic eight ball -- Let's ask the magic eight ball and hope it says "don't bet on it." (Or, if I actually have a magic eight ball in my hands... I'm the biggest dork ever and am trying to make you laugh).
10. I need to use the restroom -- Luck had it that I was moving in the direction where the restrooms are located. Then you asked me, so now I have to actually walk in there. I'm hoping in the meantime you'll find someone else to dance with. And if you don't, I'll have to stay in there until the song is very close to its end, so that I won't have to dance an entire one with you.
11. I have to put a band-aid on. -- I have to take off my shoes really slowly, take my time putting the band-aid on, and hope that you get tired of waiting.
12. I have to put a band-aid on, I'll be right back! -- Wait for me so that I don't look like an idiot standing up and looking around once I'm done.
13. I need a break -- Unless I'm taking out my inhaler... I NEVER need a break! However, I do need a break from you.
14. I need a drink -- I need a drink and the opportunity to get lost in the crowd around the water the moment you take your watchful eyes off me.
Questions that seem to get asked over and over again after rejection and answers to them, once and for all.
1. Would you like to dance? (next song. and the next one. and the next one...)
Dude. If I've rejected you for more than three songs, especially in a row... I NEVER want to dance with you!
2. Why do you hate me?
Well, there could be a number of reasons... Just kidding. I wouldn't really call it hate, since you've technically done nothing bad except make me feel extremely uncomfortable dancing with you. And you keep making me feel more and more uncomfortable by asking this stupid, immature, question, thus killing any chances for pity that you had left.
3. Why not?
Um, do you really want to know why I don't wanna dance with you? Ok. Here's a list of potential reasons:
My intuition is telling me not to. You smell bad. You can't dance. You can't dance with me. You are too touchy. You are off beat. You are creeping me out. You stare at me in a weird way. You stare at me in the wrong place. You are too tall. You are too short. You (apparently) can't count till 8. You announced that in a week I will be your girlfriend (fat chance.) You announced that in a week I will be your wife (ask me again and in a week I'll be your first lawsuit for a restraining order.) You spin me too much. You don't believe me when I say I don't know how to do this move. You don't believe me when I say I've been dancing for under a year and bend me over backwards, hurting my back. You hurt my arms (and no, it's NOT my frame! I have the same frame with the rest of the floor and noone else has twisted them out like that.) You look like a retard when you dance and I don't wanna laugh in your face. You only care about yourself when you dance and I feel... left out. You try advanced moves on me that I can't POSSIBLY do yet, which makes me feel like a complete retard. You dipped me and I fell. You look completely disinterested in our dance. You aren't looking in my eyes. Those aren't my eyes.
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