The universal appeal of line dancing has led to a recent surge in popularity and frequent appearances at local venues. The South Fork Country Kickers combine rural charm with a mix of musical genres, bringing a vibrant energy to the dance floor while providing instruction on how to line dance. For Founder and Lead Instructor Tari Bussard, it’s not just about learning how to dance—it’s about building self-confidence and creating an accepting atmosphere.
“I enjoy watching people transform through dance. I understand in today’s world, we all need joy,” she shares.
Photograph courtesy of South Fork Country Kickers
Bussard’s rural upbringing in the small town of Ottawa, Illinois wasn’t too different from her current life on a ranch in Arlington. After settling down in her husband’s hometown with her two sons, the couple started the South Fork Cattle Company, raising, butchering, and selling home-grown beef.
It was in a barn on her ranch that Bussard’s journey into line-dancing was
sparked. “My son’s wedding initiated the whole line-dancing thing. We thought it would be a great idea to get the wedding party together and do a dance,” Bussard recalls. “We started practicing and learning in my barn, and it just took off from there.”
Photograph courtesy of South Fork Country Kickers
After taking some teaching gigs in Seattle, Bussard began booking her line-dancing classes in Skagit County. The Big Lake Bar and Grill provided the perfect setting to get her feet wet as a teacher and launch her current business. It didn’t take long for Bussard’s warm and welcoming nature to build a following and book other venues on a weekly basis.
“Once she’s in her element, she can get the whole crowd going,” says long-time friend and fellow Instructor Wendy Hinker, who joined in to assist Bussard at her South Fork Country Kicker events.
“Wendy and I are best friends; we both make each other’s lives easier,” Bussard adds.
Photograph courtesy of South Fork Country Kickers
Over the last year, Bussard and Hinker have been joined by a team of instructors providing lessons for all ages throughout Skagit and Snohomish counties. Many beginner students arrive at their first class feeling hesitant, but they experience significant growth after just one night and continue to build confidence week after week. While the instructors focus on empowering women, they love to see men to join in on the fun as well.
“Everybody’s welcome. That’s the feeling we strive for. Come as you are, even in your work clothes, we don’t care. You’ll leave feeling better,” states Bussard.
As the Kickers organization expands and moves into the next chapter, Bussard doesn’t lose sight of her mission to help women become the best version of themselves. The goal is to continue providing a safe environment where everyone can feel comfortable and have fun. Bussard encourages each participant to break out of their shells and discover their inner beauty through dance, emphasizing that “everyone leaves as a line-dancer.”
