Life & Work with Ayla Schmidt of Reed City

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ayla Schmidt.

Hi Ayla , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey with Devotion in Motion Dance Studio really began long before the doors officially opened. I grew up with a deep love for dance and a passion for creativity and community. Over time, I realized I wanted to build something that combined both — a space where dancers could not only learn technique but also feel valued, confident, and part of something meaningful.

Starting out wasn’t easy — I began small, teaching classes and slowly building our reputation through word of mouth, local events, and a lot of late nights planning and dreaming. But as the community grew, so did the studio. Today, Devotion in Motion has become more than just a place to dance — it’s a family. We offer a variety of styles, from ballet to lyrical to hip-hop, and focus on creating an encouraging environment where students can express themselves and grow both as dancers and individuals.

Looking back, every step — from laying down Marley floors to planning recitals and seeing our students shine on stage — has been worth it. I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come and excited for where we’re headed next.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road — but every challenge has shaped the studio into what it is today. Starting a business from the ground up, especially in a small community, came with a lot of learning curves. There were moments of uncertainty — from managing finances and finding the right space, to balancing creative goals with the realities of running a business.

There were also times when I had to wear every hat — teacher, marketer, designer, janitor, and accountant — all in the same day. But through each obstacle, I learned how to adapt and grow stronger.

The biggest challenge has probably been maintaining balance — making sure the studio continues to grow while keeping that close, family-like environment that makes it special. But honestly, those struggles have made the victories even sweeter. Seeing our dancers light up on stage or watching our community come together reminds me exactly why I started.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Devotion in Motion Dance Studio, I wear a lot of hats — I teach, choreograph, design, and plan everything from recitals to community events. But at the heart of it, what I really do is create a space where dancers of all ages can feel confident, expressive, and supported.

We specialize in a wide range of styles — from ballet and lyrical to hip-hop, tumble, and competition teams — and we focus just as much on building character as we do on perfecting technique. I think what we’re known for most is our positive environment and creative approach. Every class is designed to help dancers grow not just as performers, but as people.

What I’m most proud of is the community that’s formed around the studio. It’s become a family — parents, dancers, and teachers all working together to make something special. Whether it’s watching a shy 3-year-old take the stage for the first time or seeing a senior dancer mentor younger students, those moments remind me why this work matters.

What really sets us apart is our personal touch. We don’t just teach routines — we teach confidence, teamwork, and heart. I try to make every dancer feel seen and every family feel part of something meaningful. That’s what Devotion in Motion is all about — bringing devotion, creativity, and motion together in one place.

What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is seeing the joy that dance brings to so many kids — those smiles, those little moments of confidence, and that spark when they step into the studio. For so many of them, dance becomes more than just a class; it’s a place where they can take a break from reality, be themselves, and feel supported.

Knowing that the studio can be a safe, happy space for them — where they can express what they’re feeling, build friendships, and grow — means everything to me. That’s truly what drives me every day.

Pricing:

• Classes begin at $45/month

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Dimdancestudio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dimdancestudio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1K8Uo4Lnjo/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dimdancestudio?si=I86_OYrah5FYuEfV