Strictly contestant set to bring dance moves to Nairn for good cause
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A Nairn woman is set to bring the party to her hometown in aid of Highland Hospice this month.
Emma MacDonald (34), who now lives in Muir of Ord, will be hosting her main fundraiser for Strictly Inverness on Saturday, April 13 at the Community Centre in Nairn. Starts at 7pm till late.
The event will see a night of music, dance moves and games to raise funds for the Highland Hospice and the Inverness Ice Centre.
Talking about the night, Emma said: “I am really looking forward to it. This is the main fundraiser in my Strictly campaign so it had to be in Nairn.
“It’s a big dance with ceilidh music, a raffle and games alongside a buffet and a mobile bar (both provided by local businesses).
“I only have a couple of tables left to fill, I really hope it goes well!
After working as a dental nurse for 16 years, last year she decided to set up her own business and now works as a facial aesthetics practitioner.
This was not the first time she thought of taking part to Strictly Inverness.
“I have filled in the application four times over the years,” she said.
”I thought I’d love to do it, but I always shied away and thought I wouldn’t be able to do it. I never thought I’d have the confidence to dance it in front of 600 people
“But this year, with my wee girl turning three, it felt like the right time to do it. But when they told me I got through - I was very surprised!”
Emma has been following Strictly Come Dancing for years: “I applied when I was sitting at home watching the telly. It’s a lot harder than it looks though!
“I am a big fan, I love organising fundraisers and events, and thought I could do it.
“And of course, it’s for two very important causes. I just feel like the Hospice does so much and it’s nice to do something back.
“After Strictly I would love to keep being involved with the Hospice, volunteering with them.”
Emma and her dance partner Kaitlyn Heggie are among the first Strictly Inverness couples formed by two women, and she said that has probably helped her feel more confident.
“We’ve just clicked! She’s a great lass. She’s a PT so she’s quite strong and she can lift me without problems! We just bonded very well.
“I feel like I can be more myself with her, it has helped with my confidence. I do come across as a shy person but because we bonded so well that’s been amazing.
“Both our dances are very upbeat, which is a lot of fun.
“I am now really looking forward to May and to seeing everyone else’s dances!”
Emma’s event will kick off at 7pm at the Nairn Community And Arts Centre on April 13.
