And You Will Dance Podcast
And You Will Dance is a podcast about creatives from all over the artistic spectrum who are paving their paths on their own terms. Each guest shares their creative story and discusses moments in their journey when faced with adversity and dives into the internal push and shift within themselves to overcome their obstacle(s) - a process Ariana refers to as "The Dance". "And You Will Dance" was inspired by Ariana's personal journey and her will to work past fear and self-doubt that put a temporary pause on pursuing one of her life's passions. Through connecting with other creatives and discussing their instances of grit, this podcast is intended to inspire listeners to get out of their own head, propel forward and boldly pursue their life's potential. Join in on each episode for fun and inspiring conversation and for the reminder to keep dancing. Follow us on social: IG - @andyouwilldance Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andyouwilldance
Hosted by Ariana
And You Will Dance Podcast
Dancing in her Shoes: A CEO defining her Business and Herself through Transparency and Creativity with Burju Perez
Burju Perez is a mommy of two, wife, former professional Latin Dancer and CEO and lead designer, of the world renowned quality, customizable professional dance shoe/dance heels brand Burju Shoes, based out of Massachusetts. Burju was born in Istanbul Turkey prior to immigrating to the United States. As an adult, she began her professional career by studying International Business at Boston University, prior to landing a job in banking. Burju began Latin dancing in college, where she met her then dance partner, now husband, and launched herself into the world of Latin dancing for 15 years, which included instructing, competing and paid gigs around the world.
An artist at heart, Burju combined her love of creativity and dance when altering modern Latin dance shoes for her teammates with more fun colors, jewels, feathers and with an emphasis on comfort. Burju unknowingly unlocked a level of her passion and was building her business before she knew it; Burju Shoes was created in 2010.
Burju has collaborated with widely respected and talented names in the dance industry such as Kiira Harper, Nicole Kirkland and Janelle Ginestra. Burju heels have been worn by high profile music artists such as Jennifer Lopez, Normani, Christina Aguilera, Ariana Grande, Cardi B, Hadise, Meg the Stallion, for numerous concert tours and award shows such as MTV’s Video Music Awards. Most importantly, Burju’s shoes are worn by dancers of all ethnic/gender/non-binary backgrounds all over the globe.
Burju Shoes is a brand that celebrates diversity and aims at strengthening our communities by highlighting the individual's inner confidence through fashion.
In this episode, Burju and Ariana speak about the story of Burju Shoes and what it was that challenged Burju to stay true to her vision and mission as a brand and a person.
Burju Shoes Instagram: @burjushoes
Website: https://burjushoes.com
Episode Highlights:
About Burju
- A brand that doesn’t just profit - a brand that lifts and supports
- Burju: An Artist’s spirit
- Child of immigrant parents
- Challenging the structure
- Heels community, pole dance community (!!)
- Branding It + Pop Up Shops
- Her crossroads and full time Burju
BURJU SHOES: The Beginning
- Constant observation
- Shoe Talk
- Artist bucket list?
- Serving a need
- The importance of appropriate gear
BURJU’S DANCE
- “I have to maybe fail at this.”
- Full Transparency: Defining herself and her business
- Learn and grow as a business owner and human being
- Burju’s little nuggets of wisdom