Hello everyone and welcome to Meet a Mom! I am so excited to feature and introduce Elaina Schlumper, Co-Owner, of South Shore Dance Ensemble and Teacher as well. This mom of two lives in Hanover and grew up here on the South Shore in Braintree. Growing up Elaina was always involved in dance. In 2022, she joined the Hanover High School Dance Team as an Assistant Coach. She, alongside her business partner, Deirdre Lewis recently took over Dance Workshop of Hanover which was a staple here on the South Shore. They recently had their grand opening celebration in July. I had the pleasure of visiting their new space in Hanover and it is beautiful. Read more to learn about Elaina and her “go to spots” here on the South Shore!
Where are you from originally?
I grew up in Braintree and still have family there.
Tell us about your family! How many kids, names/ages?
My family includes my husband Eric, daughter Emma who is in her second year of college, and son Michael who is a junior in high school.
How did you start your business?
Owning a dance studio was always a dream, but I never imagined it would come true! South Shore Dance Ensemble originated in Hanover over 50 years ago. The studio was originally called Dance Workshop of Hanover and was a cornerstone of the South Shore dance community under the direction of Marylou Cunningham. My daughter was a student at the studio for 16 years and my business partner, Deirdre Lewis, not only grew up dancing at the studio, but also taught there for 16 years. Deirdre and I had the incredible opportunity to take over the studio in June and we had our grand opening in July. We are committed to upholding the DWH legacy, while growing as South Shore Dance Ensemble.
Where do you now call home and how long have you lived there?
My family lives in Hanover and we’ve been here for 14 years.
What is your favorite part about living in the South Shore? We absolutely love the community and the people. We’ve met some amazing families who have become such close friends that they’re our “framily.”
What family activity do you enjoy most?
Our favorite annual activity is visiting Ocean Park, Maine. We look forward to it all year. I grew up going with my parents and sister and it’s special to be there as an adult with my own children. Spending time together on the beach and walking to the ice cream shop are our favorite traditions. Locally, we love to go out to eat together, trying new places around the South Shore.
What is your favorite part about the work you do?
Our students are the best! They love to dance and the happiness they bring to the studio makes all the hard work worth it! I love watching them develop their skills and grow meaningful friendships with each other.
Are you involved with any non-profits or do any volunteering?
When my children were young, I volunteered in their elementary school for many years. I loved spending time at the school, getting to know so many of the kids and teachers. I was a room mom, a library helper, and put together the yearbook. It was a blast!
What do you find to be the toughest part about being a working mom?
Balance! As new business owners, Deirdre and I spend a lot of time at the studio. Having dinner together as a family every night has always been important to me so I work hard to continue to make that happen as much as possible. I also love watching my son play soccer, so a challenge this fall will be making it to as many games as possible, while also managing our afternoon class schedule at SSDE.
What is the best advice you have received as a mom?
It doesn’t have to be perfect! The photo of your kids crying on Santa’s lap will be treasured just as much as a photo with flawless smiles… maybe more!
What is your best advice for a new mom?
Get out and find your people! Joining a playgroup or activity will connect you to other moms you can talk to and who relate to everything you’re going through.
What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
I don’t know if it’s surprising but I’m always reading. Even with a new business, I always have a book going and keep a running list of what to read next!
Your go-to Pandora/Spotify/Apple Music station?
I have a favorite playlist with 11 hours of music from the 80s and 90s. I’m always adding to it. Gen X will always have the best music!
Your favorite local spot for: date night, coffee break, workout, new outfit, self-care, “me time”:
We have so many great spots right in Hanover! My daughter and I love to get our nails done at Havy Nails, the Pad See You at Machim is a favorite, I love the Lemon Mandarin tea from Pure Nutrition, and the sandwiches from Prevites are fantastic. For date night, my husband and I enjoy Osteria Vivo in Pembroke.
Please give South Shore Dance Ensemble a follow and make sure to head to their website for their updated schedule. Registration is now open for the fall! They also have “mommy and me” classes as well for the little ones.
