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An Inspired Chat with Miki Jennings of Del Mar, Carmel Valley

We recently had the chance to connect with Miki Jennings and have shared our conversation below.

Good morning Miki, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about your customers?
The most surprising—and rewarding—thing I’ve learned about my customers is how deeply individual “elegance” and “beauty” really are. My couples come from every age group, cultural background, confidence level, and range of dance or musical experience. When I take time to discover their style—how they move naturally, what makes them laugh, what feels romantic or fun to them—we create something far more meaningful than memorized steps. I never want a couple to look like they just took a class; I want them to look like themselves at their very best. With a little thoughtful preparation, their confidence blooms, and that authentic glow is always a delightful surprise. Every time, the result is uniquely them—and it’s always more beautiful than I first imagined.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My company, NATURAL WEDDING DANCE, was created with a simple belief: every couple possesses their own unique expression of elegance and beauty. As both teacher and choreographer, my role is to guide you toward a first dance that feels effortless, authentic, and deeply personal. I never want my couples to appear as though they’ve “just taken dance lessons,” but rather to move with natural grace and confidence—reflecting who they truly are. This is why I named my company NATURAL WEDDING DANCE—because your love story deserves a dance as genuine and beautiful as you.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
Back in my early twenties, I was on a bullet train heading to Tokyo to kick off my career in dance and fitness when a stranger sitting next to me completely changed how I see the world. He started talking about Konosuke Matsushita, the founder of Panasonic, and his philosophy about fairness, adaptability, gratitude, and giving back. He even mentioned a book called Collective Wisdom. At the time, honestly, most of it went over my head—but looking back, that conversation planted the seeds for how I run my life and my work today: with care, flexibility, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact.

When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
When I was sad or scared as a child, I reminded myself that every hard situation is temporary, no matter how long it feels in the moment. Perspective was everything for me. I used to picture it like sitting in a bad seat at the theater—you’re not stuck there forever. The show on stage is still beautiful, and eventually, there will be another performance, a better seat, and maybe even the best view. That thought always gave me hope and patience.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
I deeply value the natural connection between people—the idea that love and attraction are pure forces of life. Marriage is a celebration of that connection, and I protect the authenticity of it in my work. Every dance I create honors a couple’s unique chemistry, so they can express their love in a way that feels true to who they are.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I deeply understand that beauty, elegance, and charm exist in everything—even in the smallest details or simplest moments. Most people think these qualities belong only to perfection, but I see them in individuality, natural movement, and genuine expression. This belief shapes how I teach dance and how I see the world—especially when I look at my tiny, grumpy French bulldog, Brioch Bun, my little love and constant reminder that beauty comes in all forms.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Travis Jennings https://www.tjphotografix.com/
Racheljoyphoto

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