Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Peterson.
Hi Julie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Dash of Dust Studio was founded by co-owners and creative partners Julie Peterson and Tania Forsman, whose journey began long before the studio itself existed. The two first met in the educational theatre circuit when Julie was coaching Tania’s daughter Ella in acting and voice. As their relationship grew they discovered a shared passion for storytelling, imagination, and creating meaningful experiences for children and families.
Through collaboration in the arts, and being each other’s cheerleaders- they witnessed firsthand the transformative power of creativity. They saw how stories could spark curiosity, build confidence, and bring people together. More importantly, they found that the moments children remembered most were often the ones infused with a little bit of wonder—the unexpected moments of magic that turned an ordinary day into something unforgettable. Additionally, they saw the need for a space to bring that magic to the young and the young at heart alike!
Therein sparked the dream: to build a space where storytelling could extend beyond the stage and become part of everyday life. They envisioned a studio that celebrated imagination, encouraged connection, and invited people of all ages to embrace joy, playfulness, and creativity.
That vision became Dash of Dust Studio. The name reflects the belief that even the smallest sprinkle of imagination – a “dash of dust”—has the power to transform an experience, inspire a new perspective, or create a lasting memory.
Today, Julie and Tania continue to draw on their backgrounds in education and performance as they design experiences and creative offerings that blend storytelling with hands-on engagement. At its heart, Dash of Dust is rooted in the same values that first brought their business relationship together: spreading magic, sharing stories, and creating moments of joy that help people feel connected to themselves, to one another, and to the world around them.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
At their core, Julie and Tania are creatives as mentioned- but neither has a background in business. They were fueled by passion for this project but as one can imagine… they were making mistakes (and learning from them) on the daily. Things like… watch out for sketchy marketing scams, everything typically costs more than you think it will (ex: insurance and renovations), work/life balance is a whole new ballgame as a business owner, and the importance of riding the waves of disappointment and success. They learned how important mutual respect is in communication and how to give grace when needed. They have now gotten their roles and responsibilities divided and solidified and have a more open and trusting relationship than ever!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
We’re known for creating experiences that feel both magical and meaningful. Whether we’re designing immersive events, interactive storytelling experiences, creative workshops/programming… our goal is always the same: to spark wonder, connection, and joy.
People often tell us that what sets us apart from others in this space is the feeling we create – thoughtful, playful, and POSITIVE.
We’re especially known for and are proud of:
Creating moments of wonder – transforming ordinary spaces and occasions into something unexpected and magical.
Engaging audiences of all ages – designing experiences that delight children but also providing a fun, social space for tweens- adults.
Attention to detail – from the smallest design element to the overall experience, every piece is intentionally created or curated to support the story and evoke emotion.
We offer:
Creative Play Class + Camps
Themed Birthday Parties + Studio Rental (Character Appearances if Requested)
Mini-Makeovers in our Glow-up Bar
Mahjong Classes, Open Play, League
DIY classes and workshops
Specialty Events like: Character Tea Parties, Holiday Events, Movie Nights, etc.
What matters most to you?
What matters to us is the feeling that people have when they walk in our doors and topping that feeling when they leave.
We feel as though it is a privilege to provide the service we do and we do not take that lightly. It is an honor to be able to spread joy and shape the next generation the way we do. We lead and model with kindness, acceptance, and love. Hopefully the feeling is contagious and when folks of all ages leave a Dash event – they want to spread that joy wherever they go!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dashofdust.com
- Instagram: @dashofduststudio
- Facebook: Dash of Dust Studio
