Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolyn Wells.
Carolyn, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Ms. Carolyn opened DbD Studios in 2014 after learning she was going to have a little girl; she actually signed the lease when her daughter was just 3 days old. She wanted a place where she knew her daughter would be surrounded by an amazing dance family using appropriate choreography, costumes, and music and challenging technique from the best teachers of New Braunfels and the surrounding areas. Dance by Design has grown from 30 students to over 500 students ages 4 months to adults. Ms. Carolyn believes that consistent training for her teachers, a syllabus for all levels and styles (written by herself and studio directors), and having a fun and focused atmosphere is of the upmost importance. Her goal is for every student to learn technique, coordination, discipline, but most importantly a LOVE for all things dance. We hope you can join us as we celebrate our 13th season!
The mission of the studio is to offer a wholesome environment with quality dance classes and training for every individual in every stage of life. This includes making sure your dancer is dressed appropriately from class to stage, music that any ears can hear, and dancing that any parent would be happy to watch.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Owning a small business always has its challenges. There are hurdles you don’t see coming, and you figure a lot of it out as you go. But honestly, that’s part of what makes it meaningful. The growth we’ve experienced at DbD throughout the 13 years has been incredible to witness, and it’s a reminder to always keep going.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Dance by Design, our mission is to offer a wholesome environment with quality dance training for every individual at every stage of life. That means the music, the choreography, the costumes — everything is something any parent would be proud to watch.
What sets us apart is the intentionality behind everything we do. Every teacher has a syllabus and lesson plan. Our full team goes through continuing education. Our schedule is set a year in advance. And we serve students from age one through adult, so dance at DbD isn’t just an activity — it’s a lifelong practice.
We also offer performance opportunities on professional stages, and programs like our Foundations curriculum and STAARs pipeline that you just don’t find everywhere. What I’m most proud of is the culture we’ve built — families trust us with their kids, and we take that very seriously.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
We love being part of the Dance Studios Owner’s Association Inner Circle!
Pricing:
- Summer Camps, Classes & Workshops.
- Fall Classes start August 2026
- Fun One Day Events and Date Nights!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dancebydesignstudios.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dbdstudios/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dancebydesignstudio
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dbdnb1
