Wedding Dance Instruction Guide
If the thought of stepping foot on that dance floor is giving you palpitations, then why not ease the anxiety by taking some dance lessons? 
You might surprise yourself! Not only does dance instruction form a new bond between you and your fiancé(e), but the results will actually be entertaining for you and your wedding guests. Whether you want a show stopper or you just want to gain some confidence about your moves, this is the way to go.
Wedding choreography is becoming more and more popular, as many more couples choose to personalise their first dance. With choreography ranging from the funky moves of Michael Jackson's "Thriller" to an old waltz of "Unforgettable" by Nat King Cole, surely there is a song and dance out there for everyone. So instead of worrying about tripping over your gown, looking stiff in a dinner jacket, or knocking over the cake in your whirl-wind of excitement, dust off those dancing shoes and get ready for the lesson of a lifetime.
Instructional Dance Videos
Sure, you can buy a set of DVDs that will teach you to dance. You will save money and be able to practice for as many hours as you want! The only down side is that there is no way to tell whether or not you are actually doing the dance right. It may be better for some couples to invest in taking classes.
If you are feeling really brave, look for DVDs specialising in styles like:
Once you know which style is right for you and your partner, you are on your way to perfecting your first dance. If you prefer to take the road of least resistance and invest in dance instruction at a studio, then read on.
Finding the Right Dance School
There are a few questions to ask before choosing a studio or school for dance lessons.
- Find out if you can take a trial or sample class. If you are a little bit unsure, this will help you decide whether or not choreography is for you.
- Will the school have time to teach you a choreographed routine for the big day?
- What is tuition? How much should you expect to pay per class?
- How long are the lessons?
- How many lessons will you need in order to master a routine for your wedding day?
- Can you bring along your own music/song that you want to learn a dance routine on?
- Are they able to recommend music/songs that you can learn a routine to?
Private vs. Group Lessons
No matter which option you choose to go with, couples will need to practice their dancing in their dancing shoes. This is essential! The feeling that you will get dancing in trainers is certainly different than that of dress shoes. You will want to be comfortable with your dancing on the big day and will surely want all of the practice that you can get in the shoes that you will be wearing.
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Private Dance Lessons - The instructor will work to get you and your partner on the same page. Perfect your form, learn how to lead, and get into some basic steps and rhythms with personal instruction.
- Learn a dance to the song of your choice. You will receive the private attention of your instructor and can create a personalised dance together. This is often a good idea for couples that have a particular style or song in mind.
- Lessons will cost approximately £25 an hour or more per person for private instruction and you will need at least 3-5 lessons (if not more) to get it right.
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Group Dance Lessons - If you both have time to take a special class, this is ideal. Learn the same dances to show off during your first dance and throughout the reception as well.
- Strengthen your skills by dancing with other partners in the class as well. This way the woman will always learn to follow and the man to always lead.
- Group lessons are about half of the price (if not less!) than the cost of a private lesson. Make sure that you have the time to invest in many group lessons. Prices range according to studios, but you can expect to pay roughly £20 per couple for a 45 minute class.
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Related Guides
Good luck with your dancing! Use these guides to help you with your moves, your music selection, and the rest of your wedding reception!
External Links
- WeddingChaos.co.uk: A wedding preparation index, with a special article on dancing.
- Wikipedia.org: A list of dance style categories... just to spark your imagination.
- YouAndYourWedding.co.uk: A listing of U.K. dance studios along with tips and articles on the first dance.
- YouTube.com: Watch this couple's creative first dance.
- YouTube.com: The infamous "Thriller" wedding dance. We promise you'll love it.
