“I am the creative one! The choreographer, the Professional Dancer, the lover of fashion and fine arts. I feel extremely fortunate to combine dance, fashion, and working with my Mother as a lifelong career. “Nothing is really work unless you would rather be doing something else.” (J.M. Barrie) We have such a wonderful time working with ladies of all sizes, ages, and from all walks of life. We truly have been given a gift that we can help women feel wonderful with just one dress. We celebrate dance, we celebrate fashion, and we celebrate women.”

“…Sitting down putting my shoes on, I anxiously await for dance class to begin. I eagerly listen to every word the instructor says. I practice at home in front of our fireplace that I pretend is a stage and put on special performances for my parents and dog; sometimes using a chair as my partner. During one performance I misjudged my partner and broke my arm. The cast itched, but looked much better after I jazzed it up! The day we are fitted for our show costumes is always the best day ever. One is so pretty with sequins and a bright yellow color, I wear it every chance I get, for Halloween, school events, shows, you name it. I love putting on a show for people and telling a story through my dance. I never get nervous, and never want to leave the stage. This is my home, this is my life, I am a dancer…”

Julie was born in Washington, D.C and raised in the great state of Virginia! She graduated from Marymount University located in Arlington, Virginia, with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. While in college she was an exchange student at the University of Central Queensland, Australia through the University of Long Island, South Hampton College studying tropical marine ecology on the Great Barrier Reef. Her second exchange program was through Michigan University where she backpacked through England, France, Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, and Italy studying art history. Julie was a straight “A” student and member of Beta-Psi/Alpha Phi Sigma and Psi-Chi National Honor Societies. She was an Ambassador for Marymount University and presented a Leadership Award for establishing their collegiate cheerleading program. Her scholastic achievements warranted her the Presidential Academic Fitness Award for outstanding academic achievement signed by President Bill Clinton. She was accepted and attended the Institute for the Arts, studying music, dance, drama, Broadway stage makeup/special effects, and sculpting. Julie was awarded the Outstanding Recent Graduate Award by Marymount University in recognition of her professional accomplishments and humanitarian contributions.

For close to two decades Julie has followed her passion, and love for dance as a Professional Ballroom Instructor in the Washington D.C. Metropolitan area. She is certified by the World Professional Dance Teachers Association in American Smooth, and American Rhythm dance styles. Julie quickly acquired many Top Instructor awards including one at a world event; Overall Most Entries Danced as an Instructor at a major competition (male or female); numerous Top Student Awards; and 1st Place award in sales worldwide. She was a selected Professional to choreograph a swing routine with a selected “non” dancer from the public, to compete in the Washington Auto Shows’ Dancing for Toyota’s. Julie danced with the touring company for Dancing with the Stars. In Fall, 2018 Julie started competiting with a new professional partner, and placed 5th at World Championships in January, 2019.

Currently she is the Owner and Co-Founder of Encore Ballroom Couture, the leading consignment and consignment rental haute couture dress company in the ballroom industry. She considers herself a Dress Broker, turning her clients’ dresses into cash! Julie is also a celebrity stylist, focusing on special events, television appearances, premieres, and award shows. She feels fortunate to work side by side with her Mother who is the Co-Founder and Director of Merchandising, and Finance. Several years after establishing Encore, she spearheaded a program in partnership with Gold Stars, donating previously loved ballroom costumes to well deserving youth. The youth from economically challenged families are provided free dance education while maintaining an approved GPA in school. To date Encore has donated over $500,000 worth of costumes. For more information on Gold Stars please see: https://encoreballroomcouture.com/donate-your-dresses/ Julie is an Invited Member of the National Museum of Women in the Arts. She looks forward to bringing recognition to the achievements of women artists of all periods and nationalities. The National Museum of Women in the Arts is the ONLY institution of its kind in the world. Additionally, Julie is an Invited Member of the National Association of Professional Women.

Fall, 2012 she founded Hairpins to Hemlines fashion editorial. It is the first of its kind in the ballroom dance industry. It is an editorial explaining current mainstream fashion trends, educating dancers on how to select a fashion forward dance wardrobe. It is produced seasonally, and Julie is the Creative Designer. She enjoys writing special features on new technologies in the fashion industry, recently focusing on Biocouture, Epidermial Electronics, and Wearables. Recently she was invited to discuss these technologies with STEM students, and explain what a future in science-based fashion could entail.

Fall 2012, Julie was nominated and selected for the 83rd Joint Civilian Orientation Conference. She had a tremendous experience meeting our military service men and women and learning what life is like for them on a daily basis. She heard their insights and concerns, and walked away with a new appreciation of their sacrifice and bravery. Something she took away was that our military is made up of volunteers, and that we are still engaged in military combat every minute of every day. To think there are men and women currently fighting for our freedom, away from their families, and risking their life, for us, is awe-inspiring. Julie has so much respect for her fellow participants, staff, and US Military. She encourages everyone to help out service men and women in your community any way you can. Julie personally advocates for Companions for Heros and Dogs on Deployment. Julie is a financial sponsor of The Wounded Warrior Project. She founded Toppers for Troopers, a hair donation program associated with Walter Reed National Military Medical Center helping service members and their families suffering from hair loose due to injury, illness or treatment. For more information on Toppers For Troopers please see: https://encoreballroomcouture.com/toppers-for-troopers/

Julie was awarded the title of Ms. Ireland USA 2018 and competed in Dublin, Ireland in January 2019, placing 1st Runner Up. She has been very proud to represent the Caldwell family whose Baronetage was founded on June 23, 1683 in Wellsborough, Northern Ireland. Castle Caldwell is located at Templecarne, County Fermanagh, at the west end of Lower Lough Erne, and is now a national park, which is open to the public. In 1849, John Caldwell Bloomfield established Belleek Pottery, which is known the world over for creating original and unique porcelain pieces. Each one is made using traditional methods passed down from generation to generation, and 16 pairs of hands touch a piece from start to finish. Queen Victoria, the Prince of Wales and nobility became collectors of Belleek products. Queen Victoria’s Museum in England, has one of her favorite Belleek pieces on display. Belleek Pottery has stood the test of time, and is a tribute to the land and culture of Ireland. They have recently acquired Galway Irish Crystal, Aynsley China, and Donegal China. For more information on Julie’s family history or bio, see: https://www.msirelandusa.com/

As Ms. Virginia 2017, Julie raised awareness for “Women and Girls in Science” and “STEAM”/STEM (Science Technology Engineering Mathematics) Arts. She is passionate about introducing girls to science and connecting them with phenomenal women scientists who can mentor their scientific exploratory desires. It has been a pleasure for Julie to attend STEM events and educate students on biocouture, the concept of growing material from bacteria. For more information on biocouture please see: https://youtu.be/z2SXuRRBXwY Julie believes the only way our country will move forward technologically is by CREATIVE STEM minds. She has had a passion for science, fashion, and dance from a young age. Julie is a member of the National Air and Space Society, and Smithsonian Associates. She enjoys attending science based lectures, and meeting astronauts, theorists, and artists that currently engage and change the world around us. For fun, Julie is studying astrobiology online through Harvard University.

Yes it’s true; Julie was also America’s Ms Virginia 2011! She is the first woman in the state of Virginia to accomplish a double win!!! During her time as America’s Ms Virginia 2011, Julie eagerly drew attention towards her national platform of eye cancer awareness. It was after losing a dear friend who experienced no signs or symptoms; she made it her mission to spread the word about this aggressive form of cancer. For more information about prevention and early detection, please visit the Eye Cancer Foundation. Remember to incorporate a complete annual eye exam with dilation into your annual medical exams and always wear your sunglasses–stay cool and cancer free!

Julie is very proud to be on the Board of Directors of Humane Dominion, which is a driving force in the State of Virginia striving for more humane laws for animals. Julie has such a passion for animals that she hosts many fundraising events for local shelters, sponsors pull/adoption fees for shelter animals, and participates with lobbying. She has joined The Humane Society of the United States in lobbying to end fox penning, and importation of shark fins in the State of Virginia. She has signed close to 1,000 petitions in favor of better laws to protect wildlife and companion animals in the US and abroad. Julie has been recognized as a Humane Hero by The Humane Society of The United States and is a proud supporter and contributor to the documentary film “Guarding Dogs.” She is a member of The Nature Conservatory, and lives a vegan/compassionate lifestyle.

Julie has always been very athletic! She was a competitive gymnast, tennis player, swimmer, horseback rider, and soccer player. In her free time she is an accomplished pianist of 30 plus years, and an acrobat through the Trapeze School New York. Her true passion is her company which she devotes nearly every minute of her day to. “I am completely devoted to all of my ladies and making them feel their best.” Julie is a member of the Women’s Civic League of Baltimore, MD. Growing up her Grandmother instilled a sense of helping the community while surrounding yourself with gracious, ambitions, fabulous women; ladies who could save the world white wearing a hat and gloves. Julie enjoys designing hats, and has won multiple hat design contests. For the past ten years she has hosted a design contest for adults and children in Mount Vernon Place, Baltimore, MD.

In Memory of Brenda Wilson

“I started my fashion career as a photographic and runway model after graduating from John Robert Powers Modeling Academy and is a past President of their Alumni Association. I then went on to compete in the Miss. America International beauty pageant. This gave me the opportunity to be exposed to many different stylists and designers. I am currently married to my high school sweetheart, Walter, and this year we will celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. By profession, I am an obstetrical nurse. I have enjoyed a career spanning over 35 years. In my free time, I am an avid tennis player, currently co-captaining two USTA 3.5 tennis teams. I also keep busy with managing a tennis flight at the local athletic club where I have been a member for the last 30 years.

Julie is our only child, so we definitely bask in her many successes. When she became involved in ballroom dance, first as a student, then as a Professional, I did all the pricing, style, selection, i.e. merchandising for her. I was instrumental in coordinating her wardrobe for her while she was teaching and competing in the ballroom world. I enjoy the opportunity of working with my daughter Julie in our business. It allows us to spend lots of quality time together and is an exciting whirlwind of feathers, sequins and beautiful dresses. It gives the opportunity to meet many wonderful people and travel to places we haven’t been before.

I handle the merchandising for the company and welcome any questions or comments!”

Roma’s full bio coming soon…

Born in Sicily and fluent in multiple languages, I have lived in six countries across Europe, North America, and South America. I spent over 15 years as a professional basketball player and team captain in the Italian league. I also appeared on the Italian science-based TV show “New Face for Focus TV,” where I competed in the mechanical engineering category.

After retiring from sports, I transitioned into a high-level finance career, serving in C-suite roles for international groups such as Richemont (Cartier, Montblanc) and The Carlyle Group. I have also been a featured speaker at the World Finance Forum. Currently, I work as a CFO consultant and co-lead business development for Encore Ballroom Couture.

In my personal life, I am a proud mom to a rescued ginger husky who is now launching her own career in acting and modeling. I also have a twin brother and an advanced scuba diving license. Next on my list: raising a dozen Silkie chickens in the backyard.

Francesca was born on November 3, 2018 in sunny California. She is a documented purebred Pomeranian, with very rare coloring, and sparkling personality. Francesca is considered a micro teacup weighting in at three pounds. After she was weened, Francesca took flight to Las Vegas where she resided for a few months. On February 14, 2019, Valentine’s Day, she was gifted to Julie on a first date. Her date wanted her to have something that would love her every day of the year. Though still single, Julie loves her new plus one!

She is named after Julie’s favorite haute couture designer, Christian Lacroix. Francesca loves visiting with people, organic turkey breast, and wearing her Susan Lucci Designs.

Emily is currently pursuing a degree in Fashion Design with a specialization in Couture Atelier at the École Supérieure des Arts et Techniques de la Mode (ESMOD) in Paris. Founded in 1841 by Alexis Lavigne—the French couturier who invented the mannequin and measuring tape – ESMOD is one of the most prestigious fashion institutions in the world. Emily is set to graduate in 2026, refining her expertise in the art of French haute couture.

Originally from Northern Virginia, Emily was deeply involved in her high school’s theatre program for five years. By the end of her time there, she had risen to the role of Scenic Director and earned a Cappies Award for Best Makeup Design for her work on Dracula at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

Drawing from her background in the performing arts and her deep knowledge of garment construction, fabrics, crystals, and womenswear, Emily brings exceptional care and attention to her work with Encore. She takes pride in maintaining the company’s inventory of dresses and guiding clients to find their perfect fit.

Emily also played a key role in the launch of Encore House of Crystal, creating custom hand-crystallized pieces and curating elevated experiences for clients, including members of the NFL Cheer Alumni Organization.

After a year as a Dress Technician at Encore Ballroom Couture, Emily was promoted to Dress Manager, a role in which she continues to combine her creative vision with her technical expertise.

Bio

Abigail Bruggeman is a Marymount University graduate with a BA in Fashion Merchandising and Public Relations.

She has a diverse social media background, having previously worked as a Social Media and Digital Marketing intern for Dur Doux. Along with freelance social media management for several notable fashion designers in the Washington DC area.

As a social media expert, Abigail is an integral part of ENCORE’s business development team, specializing in tapping into new market segments, particularly within NFL Alumni cheer communities and Encore Crystal Couture!

In addition to her social media skills, she is actively engaged in the DC fashion scene, both as a model and by analyzing business models behind the scenes for artists, designers, and creators.

After working for two years as Encore Ballroom Couture’s Social Media Manager, Abigail was promoted to Office Manager.

Emily is currently pursuing a degree in Fashion Design with a specialization in Couture Atelier at the École Supérieure des Arts et Techniques de la Mode (ESMOD) in Paris. Founded in 1841 by Alexis Lavigne—the French couturier who invented the mannequin and measuring tape – ESMOD is one of the most prestigious fashion institutions in the world. Emily is set to graduate in 2026, refining her expertise in the art of French haute couture.

Originally from Northern Virginia, Emily was deeply involved in her high school’s theatre program for five years. By the end of her time there, she had risen to the role of Scenic Director and earned a Cappies Award for Best Makeup Design for her work on Dracula at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

Drawing from her background in the performing arts and her deep knowledge of garment construction, fabrics, crystals, and women’s wear, Emily brings exceptional care and attention to her work with Encore. She takes pride in maintaining the company’s inventory of dresses and guiding clients to find their perfect fit.

Emily also played a key role in the launch of Encore House of Crystal, creating custom hand-crystalled pieces and curating elevated experiences for clients, including members of the NFL Cheer Alumni Organization.

After a year as a Dress Technician at Encore Ballroom Couture, Emily was promoted to Dress Manager, a role in which she continues to combine her creative vision with her technical expertise.

Rebecca’s bio coming soon…

Anna’s bio coming soon…

Annaliese’s bio coming soon… 

Dounia Arafa, a Marymount University graduate with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Fashion Merchandising and a minor in Fashion Design, recently transitioned from dress technician intern to Dress Manager in the fall of 2024.

Originally from Egypt, Dounia plans to relocate from the United States to Egypt in order to manage the ENCORE’s dress inventory from afar. She will be assisting in the expansion of Encore Crystal Couture. Unlike other dress technicians, Dounia has a merchandising background. Her unique education will allow her to manage this exciting endeavor.

Tammy was born in Cam Ranh, Vietnam and moved to the U.S. when she was 14 years old. She grew up in a big family with eight siblings and started sewing in high school. She was trained as a dressmaker and expert seamstress at San Diego Mesa College for Fashion Design. During her schooling, she was contracted to work with an apparel manufacturer in California.

Tammy has worked in various fashion houses, major department stores, Claire Dratch Boutique, David’s Bridal, Nordstroms, and Mae’s Boutique in McLean, Virginia. Tammy moved to Virginia when she got married, and now has two children. Tammy opened her own store in 2008. She is a fantastic seamstress specializing in ballroom dress alterations. Tammy is a treasure to our ballroom ladies, helping them achieve the perfect fit