Jamaal "Smooth" Birkett had a "Bucket List" when he retired in 2005 that included learning Detroit-Style Ballroom Dance. He admits to being pretty awful at first, because he thought he could get away with not keeping the count & depending on his hand dancing skills to get him over. Thankfully he submitted and 2 years later he was recruited to join the D2CCNBD's by "Mr. Ballroom" Donald Gardner III.
His patient instruction and "no student left behind" philosophy has garnered him a loyal following! His specialty is hand-technique & mastering the art of the lead. He loves to make sure all the ladies get their dances! His determination to master the dance & reputation as a gentleman has respectfully earned him his nickname!
Kristi "SilkFeet" Copez began her dance "addiction" in 2006. After having heard about "this ballroom dance" for about 3 years, she got up her nerve to attend her 1st class in February of that year. She came from a dancing family, where her late brother Gino, was the "gifted one" on the dance floor! She would secretly wonder why her mother, father & brother were so natural, but she was "the clumsy one". She was overjoyed to find, although awkward at first, she could move despite the chronic pain she suffered since 1992! She has developed such a passion for this dance, and especially new students who express the same anxiety she had in the beginning. She loves when a potential student says, "I have 2 left feet!" She was recruited to help form The Perfectly Paired Ballroom Dancers in 2007. Her specialty is "tweaking" & encouraging new students. The name "SilkFeet"was placed upon her by a fellow dancer & she hopes to live up to her 1st-ever nickname!
The Smooth Cha Cha's were informally established in January 2007 & officially in July 2007. We teamed up at first, to show our appreciation for the dance community & it's love demonstrated to us, through hosting an annual complimentary birthday party. The yearly parties have grown into our Signature Weekend Event. Demand grew for showcases, demos & especially private lessons as our reputation grew as patient & fun instructors. We take seriously the responsibility to promote the etiquette, safety & joy of partner dancing, especially through Detroit-Style Ballroom Dance!
