MEET THE BLENDERS
Each of our experienced instructors makes our studio the welcoming place that it is. They are here to hold space for you and help you take your practice to the next level.
Instructors
MEET THE BLENDERS
Each of our experienced instructors makes our studio the welcoming place that it is. They are here to hold space for you and help you take your practice to the next level.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
Jennifer is the Founder of The Blend Studio, and its lead instructor. Jennifer developed The Blend class to create an unbeatable workout for her students. She is a certified YRT 200 yoga instructor, as well as a certified power pilates instructor. In addition, Jennifer holds multiple certifications in other fitness modalities including CrossFit, movement and mobility, Olympic weightlifting and muscle activation techniques. In addition, she is a certified holistic nutritionist.
What to Expect in My Class?
In our Blend classes, I am going to deliver to you an experience unlike anything you have participated in before; over the course of our hour together, I will take you on a journey beginning with a great vinyasa yoga flow, thru a kick-butt matt pilates series and finally to an intense HIIT cardio progression. I will leave you breathless and full of endorphins.
In my other classes that you join me for, I will help you develop your practice, find inner and outer balance and, together, achieve the intentions we set for our practice. We’re also going to have a lot of fun and do it to great music!
Fun Fact
I am a Canadian! I moved to Orange County to bring The Blend to this community, which I am absolutely passionate about and in love with!
Qualifications and Accomplishments
Suzy has been practicing yoga since she was 13 years old with her mother. In 1987 she began practicing under the guidance of her guru, Tim Miller of the Ashtanga Yoga Center of Encinitas, Ca. She began teaching yoga in 1994 and has primarily taught for local studios in the OC area for the past 20 years. She has extensive experience of teaching a variety of classes, such as; Ashtanga Yoga-guided and Mysore style (adjustment only) practice, Vinyasa flow, Hatha and Yin yoga.
What to Expect in My Class?
Today, she has combined her knowledge of the study of Ashtanga yoga into her own original choreography in the practice of Vinyasa Flow. In this style of practice her emphasis is on the continuous flow of movement in order to build heat, stamina and focused awareness. She brings attention to a technique-based practice, teaching her students step by step how to move into some of the more challenging poses.
Her Yin Yoga instruction is focused on alignment, foundation and balance. She offers longer held poses in order to bypass the larger muscles of the body so that you can directly penetrate and stimulate the connective tissues. This applied emphasis is in order to remove tension and toxins that build up and store in the major joints and tissues of the body. During class, Suzy explains to her audience what they might be benefiting from both physically and emotionally.
In essence, she strives to offer balance, awareness and serenity to a complex understanding of the process of yoga.
Fun Fact
Her mother, Marlene Geoghan, has taught yoga in the Orange County area since 1979 and still teaches and practices to this day at the young age of 85.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
Courtney was certified to teach Barre in 2017 and acquired a group fitness certificate, chisel group class (upper body) and bellies, butts, and thighs group class certificates from Crunch Fitness.
Teaching Style
Courtney’s Barre class is a full body workout where grace meets athleticism. She uses fun basic dance moves and up-beat kickboxing for the cardio portion of her class. The Mat work includes planks, pushups and light hand weights, which are incorporated for the upper body strength training. The Ballet Barre portion of the class is designed to work on firming, lifting and shaping the lower body.
What to Expect in My Class?
Courtney uses effective exercises that target abs, hips and booty for toned and tight muscles. Throughout the entire class, she focuses on posture and core strength. Her class will keep you moving for a continuous burn with body shaping results.
Fun Fact
Courtney loves camping!
Qualifications and Accomplishments
I started my yoga journey back in 2013, after being a competitive soccer player for most of my life at that point, and haven’t looked backed since. I received my 200 hour RYT from CorePower Yoga in 2017 and have been teaching for a total of 4 years.
What To Expect In My Class?
My main mission with teaching is to heal. I want my students to feel connected in mind, body and spirit. Expect to feel grounded yet energized after class.
Teaching Style
Mindful movement focused on alignment and modifications to find what works for your body, while still having fun with creative sequencing.
Fun Fact
In my free time I volunteer at local animal shelters to help dogs get viewed more by the public.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
After years of sustained injuries from running, I became a barre Instructor for an alternative lower impact workout. Barre led to yoga teacher training and the rest they say, is history!
- 500 hours yoga teacher training
- Certified barre instructor
- Teaching for over 8 years
What to Expect in My Class?
My classes are fun and high energy, you should LOVE your workouts!
Fun Fact
I grew up on a farm in Michigan and dream of one day having my own.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
I started dancing at an early age and that love for movement has continued to evolve over the years. After a back injury landed me in physical therapy I started pilates in 2007. I’ve been hooked ever since!
-Completed 250 hours of training with Pure Pilates in 2020
-Certified in mat and reformer pilates.
-I have taught in several studios in Orange County for the past 4 years.
What To Expect In My Class?
A full body workout that combines classical pilates with athletic training. Each lesson emphasizes, strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance.
Teaching Style
I love motivating music and creative flows that move from one body part to the other. I teach in layers and emphasize form and a mind-body connection.
Fun Fact
I played competitive volleyball. I love dogs, the beach, dancing, cooking, and SPICY food.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
My fitness career began at the age of 3 in Russia with a foundational focus in classical ballet.
Some of my most notable qualifications include:
- Certified Barre Instructor & Master Trainer
- Graduated from London Dance School (Moscow campus)
- Taught dance in multiple studio residencies in Beijing, China for over 5 years
- Collaborated with brands such as Lululemon and Li-Ning.
What To Expect In My Class?
In my class, you can expect dynamic movements, uplifting music, and a supportive atmosphere where you’ll be encouraged to push your limits and discover your inner strength. It’s not just about the workout—it’s about embracing the journey and leaving feeling empowered, energized, and ready to conquer anything!
Teaching Style
Blending barre into my extreme passion for group fitness instruction, I implement an upbeat, high-energy approach to empower YOU to be the best version of YOURSELF! My classes are always musically driven and effective!
Fun Fact
I’ve been to 18 different countries, and I can speak 3 languages fluently – Russian, English, Mandarin Chinese.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
I’m an experienced yoga instructor with over 10 years of expertise. I earned both my 200 hour and 500 hour certifications from incredible yoga schools that provided a background in traditional eastern yoga and westernized yoga. I’ve implemented yoga programs for universities and large corporations that are still high-functioning today. I started a wellness retreat company (Free Flo Escapes) with the mission to help people to connect with their highest selves. I’ve led multiple retreats in Mexico and California. My greatest qualification is my personal yoga practice that I enjoy daily to feel greater physical, mental, and spiritual alignment.
Teaching Style
I have one main goal at the forefront of my mind every time I prepare for class — to create an experience for you to align with your body, mind, and soul. I have a distinct yoga style inspired by dance and meditation.
What to Expect in My Class?
My classes are most memorable for their rhythmic, dance-like flows that move people out of their minds and into their bodies. Meditation and breathwork are woven into class. As you melt into a restful savasana to close your practice, you’ll enjoy essential oils rubbed onto your temples or wrists. I look forward to flowing together!
Fun Fact
My husband and I have a 1.5 year old son. I’ve always dreamed of raising my babies on the beach!
Qualifications and Accomplishments
Lynnsey completed her certification through The Blend’s teacher training program, developing her expertise in HIIT Mat Pilates.
What To Expect In My Class?
In Lynnsey’s class, you can expect upbeat music and a high-energy atmosphere designed to keep you motivated. Her dynamic moves will both strengthen and lengthen your body, leaving you feeling empowered and accomplished by the end of class.
Teaching Style
Lynnsey’s teaching style is encouraging and motivating, creating a positive and supportive environment. She offers modifications for every level, ensuring that all students feel challenged and successful, no matter their experience.
Fun Fact
When she isn’t teaching, she loves spending time with her husband and two kids. She enjoys exploring new countries and one of her new favorites is Santorini, Greece.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
I have over 20 years of experience as a fitness instructor and personal trainer. Recently, my focus is primarily on Pilates, Barre and Yoga. I received my certifications through AFAA in Mat Science and Personal Training.
What To Expect In My Class?
My goal is for every student to feel challenged at whatever level they’re at in their fitness journey. I love to use high energy music to motivate and inspire my students. I’m also extremely focused on cuing proper form and technique during the movements.
Teaching Style
With a background in competitive gymnastics, I like to focus on strength and flexibility. My students should feel accomplished when class is over and look forward to the next one!
Fun Fact
I have been snowboarding for over 20 years and find that Pilates, Barre and my Yoga practice has helped me with the strength and flexibility to continue this sport that I love.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
NASM (CPT, CES), 500RYT, Barre Teacher, Spinning Instructor, Group Exercise Instructor, Les Mills Trainer & PN1 Nutrition Coach.
How I Found Yoga
I was born in Sweden but raised in Spain. Health and movement have always been an integral part of my life and my passion. Growing up, my family owned a dance and fitness studio, and as a kid, that’s where I spent all my free time.
I started teaching group fitness during my university years in Sweden. Through the busiest times in my life, I have always carved out time to work out and stay active – it’s always been one of my top priorities. Training for me is more than just staying fit – it’s how I stay balanced, both physically and mentally. It’s my “moving meditation.”
I discovered Yoga back in 2005 when I borrowed an Ashtanga yoga DVD from a friend, but it wasn’t until my first pregnancy in 2010 that I really deepened my interest and got hooked to a consistent practice.
What to Expect in My Class?
In my class, you can expect high energy and to be challenged while always keeping close attention to maintaining proper form. I’m a big anatomy/form nerd 😉
Fun Fact
In my previous professional career, I was the founder and CEO of a startup that developed educational apps for kids focused on boosting kids’ creativity. I’m also a proud owner of a Harley Davidson!
Qualifications and Accomplishments
- Over 700 hours of Yoga training in Hatha, Vinyasa, Restorative, Yin & Gentle Yoga
- Studied with renowned teachers and schools, including Judith Hanson Lasater, Rodney Yee, Jill Miller, and YogaWorks teachers Nicolette David, Kirtan Smith, and Christy Brown
- Experience managing boutique and corporate yoga studios across Texas, New York, and California
- Former Director of Yoga Programming
- Lead Trainer at You and the Mat, offering Restorative Yoga, Yin Yoga, and 200-hour Teacher Trainings
- Assisted over 300 hours of Yoga Teacher Training, including YogaWorks 200hr Teacher Training and Relax & Renew Level 1 with Judith Hanson Lasater
What To Expect In My Class?
In Samantha’s class, you can expect a seamless blend of breath, stretch, and flow. Her sequences are designed to help you connect deeply with your body, mind, and soul. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, you’ll feel supported in finding ease and comfort while building both physical and mental resilience.
Teaching Style
Samantha’s teaching style integrates a deep understanding of anatomy and alignment with mindful breathwork, creating a harmonious flow. She encourages students to move with intention, offering thoughtful variations for different skill levels. Her approach balances strength with relaxation, fostering a calm yet dynamic atmosphere that supports personal growth and exploration.
Fun Fact
When not on her mat, Samantha enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, cooking, and loving on her husband and two fur babies.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
Julia Solazzo, a seasoned Vinyasa, Slow Flow, Yin, and Restorative Yoga instructor has been refining her yoga practice and teaching since 2013. Her 600 Hours of Yoga Alliance Certified Training include a 200Hr Yoga Teacher Training with YogaWorks in 2019, followed by SmartFlow Yoga’s enlightening 100Hr program in 2020, and an immersive 300Hr Advanced Yoga Teacher Training with UluYoga in Bali.
What To Expect In My Class?
Her aim is to create a safe and sacred space where emotional tension is released, and inner peace is found.
Teaching Style
In her classes, rooted in a blend of various yoga teachings and styles, Julia teaches with intention to guide participants back to their intuitive selves and bodies.
Fun Fact
I am a professional oil painter who’s been training with my grandfather since I was 7 years old.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
An RYT-500 with over a thousand hours of training, Nicole is an experienced Vinyasa, Restorative, and Yin teacher. She respectfully credits the master teachers she’s grateful to have worked with, including Judith Hanson Lasater, Joe Barnett, Kali Durga, Dana Damara, and more. Nicole seeks to offer inspiring variations in each class so every student shines brighter.
Teaching Style
Nicole’s classes offer mindful movement and breath through varied sequences.
How I found Yoga
Nicole found yoga 2 decades ago when a friend brought her to a parks and rec community class in her hometown. She was immediately hooked. She had no idea she was doing Hatha yoga — she just loved finally feeling at home in her body and wanted the feeling to last. Nicole remembers practicing poses on her own at home, excitedly awaiting the next week’s class.
What to Expect in My Class?
Every class Nicole offers is rooted in mindful variations so that students of all levels can benefit. Nicole’s classes are thoughtfully curated but intuitively guided, often with a motivating theme connected to the roots of yoga.
Fun Fact
Nicole is a Reiki Master Teacher but hasn’t yet mastered her fear of birds. She is an eternal student and spends her time with her family, including her two young sons and dog.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
I completed my 200 Hour Yoga Alliance Certification to share my love of movement with this beautiful community and help students feel joyful, balanced, creative, and alive in their practice.
What To Expect In My Class?
You can expect a powerful flow with creative sequences that energize you, fun challenging balances and inversions, and strong core work. My classes will encourage you with inspiring intentions and thoughtful playlists.
Teaching Style
With a background in yoga and Pilates, I incorporate these throughout my classes. I teach a strong, creative flow that moves you on your mat.
Fun Fact
After years as a competitive gymnast, I found yoga filled my love for balance, movement, mobility, and flexibility.
I am most alive when I am active, finding joy hiking and paddle boarding in beautiful places.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
I began dancing at 2 ½, and by 12, I was already teaching dance classes. After earning my Associate’s degree from Irvine Valley College, I expanded my expertise by becoming certified in Barre and completing my 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training. These experiences allow me to bring a diverse set of teaching styles and techniques to my classes.
What To Expect In My Class?
You’ll find a lighthearted yet challenging environment where I blend my love of dance, yoga, and barre. Expect a mix of high-energy movement, core-focused exercises, and the occasional one-liner to keep things fun and engaging.
Teaching Style
I bring a playful and spunky attitude to each class, focusing on strong movement but with a relaxed vibe. My motto is “laughter is not only good for the soul but also your abs,” so be ready to work hard and smile often.
Fun Fact
While I’m passionate about fitness, I never take myself too seriously. My classes are a space to work out, laugh, and enjoy the journey.
Qualifications and Accomplishments
I hold an RYT-200 certification, along with certifications in Yogalates and Yoga Sculpt, which have equipped me with a well-rounded understanding of overall mobility practices.
What To Expect In My Class?
We’ll have a blast! I love incorporating puns and jokes to keep things light and enjoyable. You’ll receive clear visual cues to help you get into the right positions, and we’ll maintain a high-energy atmosphere throughout the session. But don’t worry, even as we work hard and challenge ourselves, we’ll always keep the emphasis on fun.
Teaching Style
Where fitness meets fun and flow, my teaching style is a harmonious blend of flowing sequences and creative postures that emphasize building strength and improving flexibility. I’m dedicated to creating a welcoming environment where you can fully enjoy the journey. Expect a lighthearted and friendly atmosphere with plenty of modifications to suit your needs.
Fun Fact
I’m from Colorado, and I enjoy snowboarding, hiking, running, tennis, swimming and anything that lets me connect with nature!
Studio Manager
I am a Michigan native who moved to Orange County five years ago and it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I am grateful for my midwestern roots and have an amazing family back home, but I love the active, healthy lifestyle here and being near the ocean. I have my degree in business management and marketing from a university near Chicago. I enjoy being creative in different areas of my life, which is why I love being on the marketing team for The Blend. My role within the company allows me to live out my passion for marketing and working out, plus being near Dana Point beach is another great perk.
Fun Fact
I enjoy trying new foods and traveling to exciting places. I have been to Belize, Thailand, and Jamaica so far and hope to experience European countries in the future!
