Natia Pelaez was born in the Republic of Georgia (former USSR) and grew up in the capital city of Tbilisi. Natia was inspired to become a ballroom dancer at the age of five. She trained in both international Latin and standard competitive ballroom dancing under "TELA" Gocha Chertkoev and Shorena Gachichiladze, and won the Republic of Georgia Championship. In 1989, Natia moved to the US with her family, began training under Barbara King, and went on to win the title of Junior Amateur Ballroom Champion, six years in a row. During college, she continued to train as a professional dancer, choreographer, and teacher. When Natia met her husband, she discovered a zeal for Argentine Tango and has accompanied Martin in both teaching and performing ever since.

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