Today we’d like to introduce you to Celina Lozano Ramirez.
Hi Celina, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Twenty years ago while attending UTSA, I had a big idea and a deep love for dance. After a brief stint at another mobile dance franchise, I realized I wanted to build something truly on my own — something rooted in connection, creativity, and impact. So I launched Twirl and Tap, a mobile dance business bringing movement and joy directly to kids — wherever they were. From preschools, day cares to community centers, I did it all, driven by purpose and passion.
In 2017, with the support of my husband, then fiancé, I took a bold leap and franchised with Webby Dance Company, based out of Long Beach, California. Since then, my business has expanded into Houston and grown by over 700%. Today, it stands as the #1 mobile dance company in Central Texas. I lead a vibrant team, mentor rising instructors, and continue to spread the love of dance to new communities — all while staying true to my mission of making dance fun, empowering, and accessible.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
While the journey has been incredibly rewarding, it hasn’t always been smooth. Like any entrepreneur, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges. In the early days, it was all about juggling every role — teaching, marketing, logistics — while trying to build a sustainable business. There were moments of uncertainty and burnout, especially when balancing work with my personal life.
A major struggle came when I decided to franchise. It required a huge leap of faith, both financially and emotionally. I also had to learn a whole new side of business — legalities, systems, and scaling — which was a learning curve. The support of my husband was invaluable. He helped me stay grounded and focused during the toughest times, and together we navigated those hurdles.
Then came the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a huge shock to the system. Like so many businesses, we had to adapt quickly. All of a sudden, in-person classes and events were no longer an option. It was a time of uncertainty, and we had to pivot fast to virtual classes and find new ways to connect with families. The pandemic also strained our finances and resources, and there were moments when it felt like everything we had worked for could slip away. But we adapted, and with a lot of creativity and persistence, we were able to keep the business going and even grow through the challenges.
Today, the challenges are different. As we’ve grown, there are new obstacles that come with scaling — managing a bigger team, maintaining quality as we expand, and staying ahead in a competitive market. But every struggle has taught me something new and helped shape the company into what it is today.
The road hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth every step. I’ve learned that perseverance, adaptability, and a strong support system are the keys to overcoming any obstacle.
We’ve been impressed with WEBBY Dance Company , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Webby Dance Company San Antonio is a premier mobile dance and enrichment program that provides on-site dance and gymnastics classes to children throughout the San Antonio area. As part of the nationally recognized Webby Dance Company® founded in 1975, the San Antonio branch offers a wide range of dynamic programs designed to foster creativity, self-confidence, and physical development in children. With over 50 years of experience in the field, Webby Dance Company San Antonio is dedicated to delivering high-quality, convenient dance education by bringing classes directly to local schools.
The program serves children aged 16 months and up, offering classes that include ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, gymnastics, and tumbling, among others. Webby Dance Company San Antonio’s classes are specifically designed to cater to different age groups and skill levels, with a focus on making learning fun and engaging. Classes for younger children, such as the Toddler and Preschool Dance programs, combine creative movement, storytelling, and basic dance techniques, while older children can participate in more advanced classes in ballet, jazz, and hip-hop.
Under the leadership of Celina Lozano, the San Antonio location has flourished, continuing to enrich children’s lives through dance and movement. Celina’s background in dance and small business has allowed her to successfully expand the company’s reach within the community, establishing partnerships with local schools and providing valuable opportunities for children to develop important life skills such as teamwork, coordination, and creativity.
What are your plans for the future?
Looking ahead, the future is filled with exciting possibilities. I’m looking forward to continuing the expansion into new markets,
Alongside our local expansion, I also plan to collaborate further with our Webby Dance Company corporate team to continue growing the franchise.
Expanding into additional markets and building strong partnerships with early childhood education and care franchises is a major goal.
As we grow, I’m focused on strengthening our internal systems, training, and leadership team to ensure we continue delivering the same high-quality experience that our families love.
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