Natalia, meaning Birthday (of the Lord) in Latin. It was ranked as the #117 most popular name for girls in 2017.

Natalia Eristavi was born in Moscow, Russia, and then lived in Tbilisi, Georgia during her childhood years before moving to California with her parents at the age of eight.

Growing up in Russia, Natalia was influenced to dance at an early age as it is very common for young children to be placed in dance schools. At age 5 she started dance and figure skating classes.

While Natalia has danced her entire life, she became more serious about it about eight years ago, and then began teaching six years ago.
Her specialties are Lindy hop, Charleston, Carolina Shag, Balboa and jazz dance. In reference to her training, she states that “I am constantly training and pushing myself to get better. You’re never really done learning and there’s always something to improve.” With that, she’d like to learn House dancing  as well as DC hand dancing (which has been of interest lately).

Although her musical tastes are always changing, as of late she enjoys dancing to Carolina shag by Earl Bostic and Big Joe Turner. She also admits to loving top 40 music and West Coast swing dancing; admitting that they are like guilty pleasures that she doesn’t (actually) feel guilty about.

Natalia started out as a swing dancer, dancing socially at ATOMIC. Soon enough she found herself assisting established instructors, and eventually taking on classes of her own.” Atomic ballroom is absolutely my second home,” she proudly added.