Jennifer Vandecar was born in Thousand Oaks, California, and spent her early childhood in Westlake and Long Beach before settling in San Clemente at the age of four. With deep family roots in Long Beach—her grandfather was an electrician who helped build the city—Jennifer grew up surrounded by creativity, hard work, and a love of movement and music that would shape her path.
A proud graduate of San Clemente High School, Jennifer danced on the school’s team all four years, captained the step squad, performed in theater productions, and later returned to coach the colorguard. She was also a member of the hip-hop crew Velocity and performed Tahitian hula throughout high school. As a child, she trained in ballet, tap, and jazz at the San Clemente Community Center under Miss Karen, where her love of dance truly took root.
Jennifer continued her formal dance education at Orange Coast College, studying ballet, modern, and performance in their prestigious program. It was there she discovered yoga and Latin dance—both of which remain part of her life today. She went on to choreograph an original musical, A Christmas Story, at the Encore Dinner Theatre in Tustin and taught dance across Orange County. She previously worked at Fred Astaire Studios in San Diego, and now returns to the Fred Astaire family with renewed passion and purpose.
In addition to dance, Jennifer has a rich background in hospitality and the culinary arts. She’s been a barista specializing in latte art, a cheesemonger with deep knowledge of fine cheeses and pairings, a craft cocktail mixologist, and a food and beverage coordinator at the Marriott in San Juan Capistrano. She brings that same creativity and attention to detail to dance and event planning—and loves creating memorable, joy-filled experiences.
A mother of two, Jennifer’s daughter recently graduated from San Clemente High, and her son is about to begin high school there—continuing the family tradition. Jennifer has also worked as a nanny, CA teacher, and youth sports coach, and has a deep love for working with children and families.
Currently, Jennifer also works as a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker, helping her clients with compassion, integrity, and a heart for service. She sees her work—whether in real estate, hospitality, or dance—as part of her faith and calling, knowing she is exactly where God wants her to be.
For Jennifer, dance is soul work. After spending a few years away from the studio, she realized how essential it is to her mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She’s thrilled to be back doing what she loves—teaching, choreographing, and building confidence in others through the power of dance. Her joy, passion, and presence light up the room, and she is honored to be part of the Fred Astaire Laguna Hills community.
