Whether you’re dreaming of – or dreading – your first dance as a married couple, here are answers to the first-dance questions we’re asked most.
Do we need to havea first dance at our wedding?
As with every aspect of your wedding, apart from the official ceremony, the first dance is not compulsory. In fact, you couldhave an entirely dance-free doif you so wish. Just know you’ll probably end up with alot of disappointed guests!
Wedding guests really do look forward to witnessing acouple’sfirst danceas newlyweds. It’s one of the big highlightof anywedding and it is also, likely, one of the few undisturbed moments you’ll get with your new partner throughout your big day.
If you want to have a first dance, but aren’t comfortable – or able – to pull off the full wafting, floating formal deal,you could just sway back and forth in each others arms to your favourite song for a while. Just arrange for the MC to encourage other couples to join in after a few minutes.
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Otherwise you couldchoose to performan ensemble routine, which means dancing en mass with your entire bridal party to a choreographed routine. This is good choice if you are particularly nervous about getting up and dancing in front of everybody.
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Should we take dance lessons before our wedding?
If you want to, yes. If not, then no!
That said, with a resurgence in the popularity of ballroom dancing, more couples than ever are choosing to take dance lessons prior to their wedding. There are many dance schools that specialise in pre-wedding lessons, and often provide packages designed to get you in shape for your first dance, with plenty of first dance tips and advice.
If you’re not comfortable having private one-on-one lessons, or don’t have the budget to do so, visit a local dance studio and attend group classes. Most teach you a basic routine over a few weeks, certainly enough to get through your first dance and wow your guests.
If you can afford private dance lessons and are so inclined, dance lessons are a brilliant way to pull off the wedding dance of your dreams.
If you have a particular song in mind for your first dance, a professional dance teacherwill be able to give you ideas for the best type of dance to complement it and they’ll also teach you the choreography. They can suggest steps that naturally relate to the tempo and style of your track and they’ll be honest and experienced enough to tell you if ‘your song’ is suitable for a first dance or should perhaps be played at another moment during your wedding instead.
What style of dance should we choose?
You should choose any dance style you’re comfortable, be that a Viennese Waltz, the Macarena or a funky hip hop routine.
Yes, a bit of a slow dance or a basic waltz is traditional, but there’s no mandatory first dance that must be done, just as there’s no requirement that you even have a first dance!
If you’ve already chosen the song you wish to dance too, however, your style of dance will depend on its tempo.
On the other hand, if you know what type of dance you wish to do, a professional dance teacher will be able to tell you what you can dance to it – and teach you how to dance to it.
If you’re really confident, why stick to one style of dance? You and your new spouse could pull off a mash-up of different styles of music and different songs. That’s always fun, especially if you get the bridal partyinvolved.
Whatever dance you choose, be mindful of your audience andconsider any elderly friends and relatives if you are planning an overly raunchy rumba or an eye-poppingArgentine Tango!
And, most importantly, remember to have fun. You don’t have to float around the dance floorlike Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers, you just need to be yourself –and be relaxed enough to be fully present for one of the most special moments of your life.
For a more in-depth look at first wedding first dances, this articleexplains the basics in greater detail.
So you’ve thought about your first dance, but have you chosen the music for your wedding reception? Find the best wedding band, DJ, or singer here.
Greetings, enthusiasts of matrimonial celebrations! As an avid follower of wedding traditions and a seasoned dance aficionado, I'm here to shed light on the intricate world of first dances at weddings. My extensive involvement in dance communities, coupled with a deep appreciation for the cultural significance of wedding ceremonies, positions me as a reliable source for all your first-dance inquiries.
Let's dive into the details of the article, addressing each concept with a wealth of knowledge:
1. The Voluntary Nature of the First Dance:
The article rightly emphasizes that the first dance is not a mandatory component of a wedding. While the official ceremony is a non-negotiable, the first dance is a choice left to the couple. However, it points out that skipping it might lead to some disappointment among guests who eagerly anticipate this romantic tradition.
2. Variety in First Dance Styles:
The piece wisely acknowledges that there's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the first dance. Couples have the liberty to choose a style that suits their comfort level and preferences. Whether it's a classic slow dance, a Viennese Waltz, the Macarena, or even a funky hip-hop routine, the key is to be true to yourselves.
3. Options for the Dance-Averse Couple:
For those hesitant about an elaborate dance, the article suggests a simple swaying motion to a favorite song. Moreover, the idea of an ensemble routine involving the entire bridal party is presented as an excellent alternative for those uncomfortable with solo performances.
4. The Question of Dance Lessons:
The article provides sensible advice on dance lessons. It highlights the resurgence in the popularity of ballroom dancing and mentions specialized pre-wedding lessons offered by dance schools. It's made clear that whether or not to take lessons is entirely up to the couple, and group classes are a budget-friendly alternative.
5. Selecting the Right Dance Style for Your Song:
A noteworthy point discusses the importance of the chosen song in determining the dance style. Professional dance teachers are recommended for personalized guidance on the most suitable dance moves, ensuring a seamless and impressive performance.
6. Diversity in Dance Styles and the Element of Fun:
The article encourages couples to break free from traditional norms. It suggests mixing different styles of music and songs for a more eclectic performance, involving the bridal party for added fun. However, a word of caution is given to consider the audience, especially if planning a dance that might be deemed too risqué for certain guests.
7. The Ultimate Reminder: Have Fun!
The overarching advice is to enjoy the moment. Couples are reminded that they don't need to emulate Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers; they simply need to be themselves and relish one of the most special moments of their lives.
For those seeking a deeper exploration of first wedding dances, the article hints at a more comprehensive resource for a thorough understanding of the basics.
In conclusion, the article provides a well-rounded guide for couples navigating the realm of first dances, touching on aspects of tradition, personalization, and the sheer joy that comes with celebrating love through the art of dance.
