We had the good fortune of connecting with Jessica Mann And Whitney Gregory and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessica Mann and Whitney Gregory, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Jessica – Creative expression has had such an impact on my life in terms of confidence, mental strength and joy that I am so passionate about sharing that confidence, strength and joy to children in our community. I love performing, whether on a stage, or in a studio; creating something to share is what excites me!

Whitney – Since a very young age I have been dancing ballet. Finding a job where I can incorporate traditional ballet but in a fun and exciting way, has been such a blessing.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Jessica – I am so proud to be coming into this industry with my experience in Musical Theater. I attended AMDA and The New School, and went on to perform on many stages across the country, including the Disney Cruise Line. I am proud of my career as a performer, as well as all my work in teaching voice and dance. I think what brought me to owning a studio ultimately was my family. When I took a break in performing to raise my first child, I became a nanny to keep my daughter with me and loved it so much. My passion for young kids grew and I started to teach ballet at Tutu School in Burlingame. I quickly became a manager and when we moved to Texas, I just knew I wanted to bring that same joy here!
The road was not always easy. We moved a lot while growing our family and needed to pivot several different times whether in location, career or both. I learned to depend on God, and to always find a community. For us, it was in our church.

Whitney – We want people to know our mission! Tutu School’s mission is to give every child the opportunity to know what it feels like to dance. We start baby classes at 6 months old, which is such great exposure to music, movement, and community; then our kids age out on their 9th Birthday. They have all the tools to continue their education in ballet, or try something new with confidence, strength and resilience. “We believe in princes and princesses that are wide awake, in teaching even the youngest of swans to soar, and that twirling should be a fundamental part of any childhood.”

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well, since Whitney isn’t local and she comes out for visits, and there are so many fun places to choose from! I love Cidercade in Fort Worth, for some games and great cider, Hush Sushi in Keller, Hutchins BBQ is my current BBQ fave, or Froth in Haslet for some tasty coffee. For some Tutu School vibes with our staff, we like wearing our Pinks and going to P’tit Tea Maison Fort Worth or Goat and Vine! Whitney and I are both moms so when we are going out for family fun, my favorites options are going to the Fort Worth Zoo, the Perot Museum, or see a show at Casa Mañana. Bring fairly new to the area still, I am still always finding new places!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Jessica – I feel incredibly blessed for the opportunities that have brought me to where I am today. The adults in my family—my parents, aunts, and uncles—have all been a constant source of support and encouragement throughout my journey, from theater school to performing professionally in singing and dancing, and ultimately opening Tutu School. They have been integral in shaping the path that led me here. Today, my husband and children are my driving force, offering love and support every step of the way. As a parent, my perspective has grown, inspiring me in so many new ways, and fueling my excitement to share music and ballet with the DFW area! I’m also beyond grateful to have my business partner and dear friend, Whitney. Together, we support each other, collaborate, and inspire one another as we pursue this amazing journey.

Whitney – I would not be here without Jessica! I opened my California locations before I was married, Jessica has been my right hand in those locations and is a huge reason behind my California success. I would never even considered the DFW area without her being in the area.

Website: https://www.tutuschoolhaslet.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/tutuschoolhaslet

Facebook: https://facebook.com/tutuschoolhaslet

Yelp: Tutu School Haslet

Image Credits
Miss Bonnie, Miss Kaitlyn, Miss Jessica, Miss Whitney

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.