Ballroom Dance Chicago Loft

Ballroom Dance Chicago was founded in 2008 by Matthew Sove to help busy, discerning people discover how natural and enjoyable dancing can be. The studio operates two locations: a West Loop Loft at 845 W Fulton Market Rd #213 and a Lakeview studio at 4039b N Ravenswood Ave. Open Tuesday to Friday 12:00pm–9:30pm and Saturdays 11:00am–5:00pm, they teach Ballroom, Latin, Swing and Rhythm styles.

Classes range from group sessions with no partner needed (drop-in, 4-week courses, and summer series) to couples group classes capped at four couples per instructor, and private lessons. Group classes for everyone welcome beginners and operate on a rolling start, with partner rotation to build versatility. Couples group classes keep you dancing exclusively with your partner throughout, with the instructor offering tailored guidance. Summer series options include Argentine Tango, Salsa, Hustle and Paso Doble. Pricing includes drop-in options (10 credits for $350), 4-week courses ($110), and summer series ($229 for one style, $378 for two styles over 4 weeks). Most group classes are BYOB—one bottle of wine or six-pack of beer per couple is allowed.

Wedding first dance is a signature offering. The studio offers $49 consultations (30 minutes), private first dance lessons ($180 per 60-minute session with 45 minutes instruction and 15 minutes practice), a First Dance & Wedding Bootcamp (90 minutes plus two couples classes), and First Dance Prep semi-private classes for couples with 6+ months before their wedding. The studio emphasizes personalized choreography tied to your song and comfort level rather than rigid step sequences, and notes that same-sex couples are explicitly welcomed and supported.

Beyond classes, the studio hosts the Chicago Ball Season, competition and performance opportunities, and trips to Vienna. They offer an Apprentice Program, free dance tutorials, music playlists, and gift certificates valid for a full year. Private lessons and group classes are available in multiple dance styles, with instructors trained to a specific standard before working with wedding couples.

On your first visit, wear comfortable clothes and smooth-soled shoes (flats or dress shoes work well; avoid sneakers and sandals). Most people wear jeans, t-shirts or comfortable dresses. Avoid long necklaces and large rings. If you're taking a couple's class, you'll stay with your partner while the instructor moves between couples offering feedback. If it's a solo group class, you'll rotate partners to build confidence with different people.

Matthew Sove is the founder. The source mentions instructors David and others by first name in customer testimonials, noting their expertise with same-sex couples and personalized choreography, but no detailed instructor directory is provided.

Beginner-friendly group classes are open to everyone with no partner required; rolling starts mean you can join at any time, and the studio emphasizes no pressure and no rigid week-to-week structure.