From the Top is a locally owned and operated family business, run by a mother-daughter team—Jessie and Jill—and the two granddaughters who proudly consider themselves the real bosses of the operation. Also pictures is Gigi, lovingly known as the original Dance Taxi Driver.

In 2023, we purchased the longtime Sandy’s Dancewear, Waco location to preserve this essential resource for local performers. As three generations of dancers, we couldn’t let Waco lose such a special space.

Our family brings both passion and professional experience to the table. Jessie is a full-time real estate agent and investor based in Robinson, specializing in design, building, remodeling, and short-term rental management with her husband. Prior to real estate, she served as Director of Tourism and Event Facilities for the City of Woodway and spent years planning high-level events for Baylor University and the Baylor Club. But most importantly, mom to two active daughters who dance competitively and a son training in jiu-jitsu.

Jill (aka Mimi) is based in Woodway and splits her time between Texas and Baja, where she owns and operates a fishing, diving, and restaurant business. But no matter where she is, she’s always cheering on her grandkids.

Since taking over the store, we’ve expanded beyond dance to offer gear and apparel for gymnastics and cheer, hiring staff with real backgrounds in performance so they can truly support our customers. We’re proud to serve the incredible talent here in the Heart of Texas and grateful for the support of programs like Baylor Dance Company, Midway Dance, Waco Civic Theatre, and many others who trust us with their needs.

From the Top is more than a retail store—it’s a community hub for performers, built by a family who’s lived this life and loves it deeply.