As one of the most memorable moments of your wedding, the perfect first dance not only opens the floor but is a special and intimate moment between the newlyweds which has become an important wedding tradition over the decades.

It stems from many years ago when ballroom dancing was an acquired skill everyone had to have, and the first dance at a ball or special event was usually done by a royal guest of honour to open the floor.

Nowadays, couples typically pick a song suited to their personal love story and practice a routine before the time to entertain their guests. But to make your first dance special, there needs to be a touch of originality. Since not everyone is a skilled ballroom dancer, it can be challenging to put on the performance you want.

Here are some easy steps to getting your first dance-off on the right foot.

STEP 1 – THE VIBE

What kind of story do you want to tell with your first dance? As we’ve said, this is a crucial moment to show off the type of couple you are. You could go romantic and sultry with a tango, or cheesy with an 80s-inspired throwback that references moves like the electric slide and the hammer dance. If you’re more emotional, a slow dance is perfect whereas a classic couple might enjoy a foxtrot. Each dance style gives a different vibe and will determine the music choice and choreography going forward.

STEP 2 – THE SONG

The song you choose for your first dance should be representative of the personal relationship you have with your partner. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to choose a completely original song, but you should feel that it speaks to you and your partner’s feelings towards each other. You also need to keep in mind the length of the song and the beat for your dance.

STEP 3 – THE CHOREOGRAPHY

You can either choose to have a professional dance instructor choreograph a dance for you and your partner, or do it yourself. If you want to choreograph your dance, however, you need to start as soon as possible as the more time you have the more time you will have to learn the steps. This can be a good time for you and your partner to become even closer during the wedding planning, through learning to dance together.

STEP 3 – THE DANCE

When it comes to your big day there will be a swarm of emotions, and executing a rehearsed dance may be a challenge, despite all your practice. Don’t feel discouraged by this, and, instead, focus on your partner and all the moments you’ve shared and the ones you’ve yet to share. A perfect dance will look different for everyone and should be about celebrating with your loved ones.

Smaller factors to keep in mind:

– Take your wedding shoes into consideration when planning your wedding dance. Practice in them a few times before your big day.
– When deciding on your wedding outfit, think about whether you will be able to move around and dance comfortably in it.
– Make sure to speak with your DJ and MC beforehand to let them know how and when you would like your dance to happen.
– Give yourselves enough time to practice, and remember to relax and allow for mistakes to happen in your first few tries.

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