Deanne Cessario
Founder & Head Creative
Deanne, Founder of Tutu Palazzo, has always been drawn to creative craftsmanship. She first honed her skills in cake design before discovering her passion for classical costuming while watching her daughters perform.
She has trained with leading professional tutu makers and expanded her expertise through the bridal industry, refining her skills to bring precision and artistry to her work. With over 30 years of experience, Dee is dedicated to creating elegant, high-quality costumes that define Tutu Palazzo.
Her commitment to learning is reflected in her qualifications in teaching, training, and online education. Always evolving, she continues to refine her craft, blending tradition with innovation. Her extensive collection of globally sourced fabrics provides endless inspiration, ensuring each costume captures the beauty of ballet while enhancing the dancer’s performance.
Sammy-Lee Cessario
Owner & Business Manager
Sammy-Lee’s journey with tutus began at age 10, when she wore Margot Fonteyn’s original Aurora tutu at “Tutu School,” courtesy of Claudia Folts. There, she created her first mini tutu, sparking a lifelong passion for costume design. By age 12, she had made her first stretch tutu and has worked alongside Dee at Tutu Palazzo ever since, now lovingly taking the reins to ensure Dee’s artistry remains accessible to the ballet community.
Her classical ballet training, including acceptance into top pre-professional schools across Europe, the UK, and the USA, informs her approach to costume making, helping dancers achieve comfort, movement, and designs that complement their body type and performance needs.
With nationally recognised qualifications in Dance Teaching & Management, Allied Health Assistance (Physiotherapy), and certifications in Progressing Ballet and Contemporary Technique, Sammy-Lee combines her love for ballet with expertise to support Tutu Palazzo’s growth.
From hand-pleating the top layer of nearly every Tutu Palazzo tutu for years, to helping every dancer feel confident and magnificent on stage, she is committed to preserving the brand’s legacy whilst continuing to innovate.
