We had the good fortune of connecting with Reese Accuardi and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Reese, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I believe the most important factor behind my success is the time and dedication I put into it. Success did not happen overnight for me. It took hours upon hours in the studio, many late nights, and rejection. Success is what you make of it and is subjective – I am proud of what I’ve accomplished and the biggest indicator of my success to me is happy aerial students! Seeing my students reach goals and get stronger is super rewarding. I put into my “brand” what I want out of it, and it’s most definitely a labor of love.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think other sling/hammock enthusiasts are drawn to me for my style, as all aerialists have a unique style. I’m very proud of my development over the years – in the beginning I was mostly mimicking others styles because I didn’t know any better. Over time, I’ve been so grateful to pull away from that and develop into what I feel is my own style. It has been a difficult road trying to stay consistent in my training and progress, especially after my injury. In 2018 I broke my knee and was completely non-weight bearing. I had to step away from all things aerial for 4 months and It was extremely disappointing. There were days I was completely discouraged, but I used my “down-time” to train with my eyes. I watched tricks and skills and stayed up-to-date with all things aerial hammock! The very day I was released to partial weight bearing by my doctor, I was back in the sling. Ever since then, I’ve not taken it for granted and taken every opportunity that sling has provided. It is a giant blessing to be able to build my brand and share my art with students here in Dallas and beyond!
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m originally from Orange County, California so I was a tourist to Dallas for awhile myself! If my best friend was visiting for a week, I think some of my go-to spots are for sure food based… I wouldn’t miss taking them to Terelli’s in Dallas, their Italian food is delicious and the atmosphere is great, especially if you grab a patio spot when it’s nice out. I would take them to Klyde Warren for some people watching and some awesome food truck fare. Another spot that has great vibes is NorthPark Center – visually entertaining, and some fantastic shopping. I think one of the lower key spots I would make sure to not miss is Downtown McKinney. I love the small town feel and the unique eats. And last but not least, we would take an Aerial class at Altitude Aerial Arts to work off all that food!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to dedicate this shoutout to Altitude Aerial Arts & Fitness Frisco! They have nurtured me since my aerial infancy and I am eternally grateful for their continued support. Without that amazing space and community, who knows if I would have ever discovered my life’s passion!
Website: www.cosmicartstalent.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/reesie012
Image Credits
Arul Rajah Neal Bailey Victoria Drew