3 Things to Keep in Mind When Planning Your Wedding Dance
As a professional dance teacher, I have helped countless couples prepare for their big day. One thing I have learned over the years is that the most memorable wedding dances are those where the music, the dance, and the attire come together in perfect harmony. It’s your moment to shine and create a memory that lasts a lifetime. So, let’s dive into how to plan the perfect wedding dance. I’ll walk you through it step by step with real-life examples to make it as relatable as possible.
Wedding Dance Music: Choosing a Song That Tells Your Story
The first decision you’ll need to make is the song for your wedding dance. Imagine your wedding as a fairytale ball where you and your partner are the stars of the night. Do you want something slow and romantic that captures your love story? Or maybe you want a fun, energetic routine that shows off your personality?
Many couples choose popular songs like Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect” because they’re trendy and romantic. However, I always encourage couples to choose a number that is memorable to them. One couple I worked with chose a song they heard during a spontaneous moment in the grocery store. They looked at each other and said, “This is our song.”
Another couple came in for a father-daughter dance class. They said they chose “Satellite”, which is not your typical father-daughter dance song. I asked them how they came up with that number. The answer was: When the bride was little and her dad took her to soccer practice, this number would always play in the car. By the time they finished telling the story, they were in tears, and I have to admit, I was a man who was moved by the story.
When you choose a song that holds special memories, you don’t just dance to the music; you share your story with everyone in the room.
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The Importance of Wedding Dance Choreography
Once you’ve picked the perfect song, it’s time to plan your wedding dance choreography. Keep it simple and effective. A dance that lasts about two minutes is ideal. It’s long enough to impress your guests but short enough to keep everyone’s attention.
When I first started teaching, I made the mistake of overcomplicating routines. I thought the more complex the choreography, the better. But weddings are not “Dancing with the Stars.” You don’t need advanced turns and lifts to wow your audience. What really matters is connection. Simple steps performed with confidence and emotion are far more powerful.
For example, incorporating a dramatic dip or a moment where you pause in the middle of the dance floor for a pose creates fantastic photo opportunities. Don’t forget: you’ll want to look back at those first dance photos with pride.
Wedding Dance Attire: The Right Outfit for the Right Moves
Your attire plays a crucial role in the look and feel of your wedding dance. Your dress and suit should complement the style of the dance and the music.
If you’re dancing to slow ballroom music, a slip dress will liven up every turn. However, if you’re planning a lively routine, consider a more vibrant outfit. One bride I worked with changed into a looser dress right before her dance, surprising her guests with a nice change. The switch not only made the performance easier, but it also increased the excitement in the ballroom.
Grooms should avoid everyday suits that restrict movement. Instead, opt for a tailored vest or a flexible jacket that doesn’t bunch or ride up. Another often overlooked item is footwear. Brides should practice dancing in their wedding shoes to avoid any surprises on the big day. If your heels are too heavy, you can change the game by switching to a more comfortable dance option.
Practicing in Front of an Audience Before the Big Day
One of the best ways to boost your confidence is to show your wedding dance in front of a small audience before your wedding. This could be in front of other students at your dance studio, for example. Where I teach, we have a social dance party every month. This is a great opportunity for couples to show their dance moves in front of people who won’t be there on the big day.
Performing in front of others helps you adjust to any stage fright or nervousness you may have on your wedding day. I remember one couple who came to their last lesson before their wedding and danced in front of a small group. Although they were nervous at first, their confidence skyrocketed by the end of the session.
Planning your wedding dance with your Dance Instructor
Working with an experienced ballroom dance teacher can make all the difference. A good instructor will not only teach you the steps but also ensure your routine fits your style, song choice, and attire. They will also help you find those small moments of magic—the smiles, glances, and shared laughs—that will make your dance unforgettable.
If you’re considering wedding dance lessons, MI Fiesta Studio is here for you. Our doors are always open, and our experienced instructors are available Monday through Saturday to help make your dream dance a reality. Contact us to schedule your first free consultation, and let’s start creating memories together.
Remember, your wedding dance is more than just a performance. It’s a celebration of your journey together. So, choose a song that speaks to you, practice with love, and dance your heart out. Your guests will be cheering you on every step of the way.
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