We had the good fortune of connecting with Marcella Raneri and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marcella, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Brooklyn New York. I was raised in Dallas TX. We had to move to Dallas when my father started to get into some trouble. My father was in the Mafia so we had to live in Dallas due to some situations with that. We lived a larger than life lifestyle when I was growing up. When I was 15 my Dad got busted and was in big trouble. When that happened we lost everything. It was at this point in my life that everything changed. We had nothing and we had to fight our way out of that. I think because that happened to me it taught me work ethic and how to pick yourself back up no matter what happens in life. You have to work hard keep pushing forward no matter what. I have been a dancer since I was 2 yrs old and when all of this happened we couldn’t afford dancing anymore, luckily my director at the time didn’t let that happen I was going to have to work for it but it still gave me the opportunity to do what I love and I feel like that also taught me a huge lesson in not giving up.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a dancer always and forever. Dance is my passion and I have done it my whole life. I was a highly competitive dancer and got my first professional job as a NMBA Dallas Mavericks Dancer when I was 18. Was featured on so you think you can dance, Netflix dancing queen etc. Regional and National competition judge. Long list of professional dance jobs. I opened my own studio Prestige Dance and Performing Arts Center which was open for 6yrs. My students were the most talented, athletic, artistic, strongest dancers many of which went on to dance professionally. When I did the Netflix show unfortunately some things happened where we could no longer keep the studio open. This was devastating to me and truly crushed me I felt like I didn’t know what to do anymore. I think dance teaches you how to work hard, time management, dedication etc. I knew I couldn’t let losing that business define me. I will always be a dancer and choreographer I’m blessed to work with amazing studios and amazing dancers still but my focused has changed and I have found a new passion as well. I started my pilates certification in March during Covid, there are so many elements to it that remind me of dancing. I’m obsessed with it and think it is truly amazing for every individual. I love that it still gives me ability to teach, making people feel strong and sexy and beautiful. I’m very passionate about women empowerment encouraging woman to believe how beautiful they really are. Pilates and teaching gives me the ability to do that and I’m very passionate about that. It has been a hard road through the years many ups and downs but I was taught to always keep pushing always keep fighting and if you work hard the blessings will come.

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.
Some of the most fun places in dallas I would say… Favorite dinner spots right now Drakes Mesero Xoxo Uchi Stirr Sushi Marquee at the Star Kai in Shops at Legacy West Would have to have brunch for sure Haywire Happiest Hour Vidorra The Henry Night out at the Statler is always fun or The Virgin Hotel Definitely need to work out of course Train Pilates Studio in Dallas Body bar For a killer workout body machine fitness Klyde Warren park for the food trucks and fun and katy trial. I think all those places are fun to go in dallas.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My family first and foremost. My amazing Mom who is one of the strongest women I have ever met. My amazing Bonus Dad Patrick who believed in me and was there for me every step of the way and supported me in all of my dreams. My amazing brother and sister Gino and Jolee for their constant love and support. I could not be anywhere I am today without my wonderful family. I love them with all my heart and feel so blessed. With each other we can get through anything.

Website: Tooposhboutique.com
Instagram: Marcella Raneri
Linkedin: Marcella Raneri
Twitter: Marcella Raneri
Facebook: Marcella Raneri
Other: Tik Tok MarcellaRaneri7

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.