Born and raised in Belfast, Jacqueline began dancing at the age of 5 and continued dancing until she became a TCRG at the age of 21. From a young age she would design her younger sister’s costumes and knew she would pursue a creative career in the Irish dance business. One of the key moments which had a huge impact on her was discovering the transformative power of making a bespoke from start to finish.

Jacqueline has taught numerous champions who went on to win World, All Ireland, American National, Great Britain, All Scotland, British National, Irish National and Regional championships. In addition, many of her past pupils transitioned to professional dance roles in both Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance and Riverdance.

The highlight of her long career in Irish dancing was founding Elevation Design in 2005 with her sister Una, which combined her love of Irish Dancing with her experience in the fashion world. She is one of the most highly regarded and influential visionaries, innovators and creative directors within the Irish Dance community.

Jackie believes that everyone deserves to look and feel like the most beautiful version of themselves, everyday both onstage and offstage through the power of personalised costume design. Her goal for each Elevation Design dress is to make every dancer at every level, from beginner to champion, to feel confident and empowered by what has been created in collaboration with them.

Elevation Design has since gone from strength to strength and Jacqueline is excited to continue to work on creating more fabulous Irish Dance costumes.