Dancing on your big day
“If ever two were one, then we,
If ever man were loved by wife, then thee”
--Ann Bradstreet
It’s your time to dazzle. Make sure you are “buttoned up”. Breath deeply, look lovingly into your partner’s eye, and step off to the rhythm of your first dance. It is done for all to see but it is done just for you.
For the friends and family it sets the mood and establishes the wedding theme.
Follow these easy tips to choreograph a first dance that will create your special moment.
YOU ARE IN LUCK. There are many dance studios in our area. Find an instructor that will make you picture perfect. Start your search by contacting our patron advertisers or go to the web.
TAKE STOCK: Do an appraisal of your dance skills. Do you dance regularly? Do you easily learn and remember dance steps? Are you comfortable dancing in front of your guests? Discuss and agree on what you want to achieve. This information is critical to the development of your presentation and your comfort during the performance.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT STUDIO. The studio should be close by, and clean and bright. It should be large enough to allow you private space for your lessons and practice sessions. It should provide opportunities for you to dance and have fun. Attend their weekend dance parties for your enjoyment and practice.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT INSTRUCTOR. Find an instructor with experience working with bridal couples. Expect to pay about $65-75 per lesson. Studios should have a staff of instructors so you can find the one that is right for you. It is important that the correct chemistry exists and that he/she motivates and boosts your self confidence. Ask friends, family and vendors for recommendations. Then call to set up an appointment. Ask for references. Recent brides love to reminisce
THE RIGHT DANCE. Your wedding theme provides clues to what type dance you should select. The waltz is a classic and is known for its style and grace. The Rumba is steamy with strong focus on partners. Swing and Latin are upbeat and exhilarating. Determine which best fits your wedding theme. Your instructor will help you pick the right dance and will show you a list of favorite songs. Bring a CD with “your” song if you like.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS. Your instructor needs to know your dress type, how large is the dance floor, and the tables set up. This is needed to develop the choreography and orientation to guests and the photographer or videographer.
WHEN TO BEGIN: Ideally the lessons should begin 2-3 months before your wedding. This allows time to proceed at a comfortable pace and to participate in the enjoyable learning and social activities. You need to select your music and choreograph the steps. Your instructor will help you do this. Usually it takes five to six 1-hour lessons plus a half hour of consultation to get you ready. Take advantage of your studio’s dance parties. They are a great place to practice and get comfortable. However, if you are reading this page at the last minute, most studios offer a crash course.
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT. Dancing skills are perishable. What you knew yesterday may not be so clear tomorrow. Practice at home or at your dance studio. Do it in front of others and don’t forget to smile. Be sure to wear footwear to match style and heel height of your wedding shoes. Save one of your last lessons for the final week to let your instructor give you the final polish. Make it fun.
THE MOMENT. There is no event at your wedding that will be more captivating than your first dance. Step into the spotlight with confidence, and grace. And most importantly do it with a bright “100 watt” smile.
By Lioudmila Blinov
Lioudmila is the founder and owner of Dance Studio Lioudmila. Her studio is the largest in Northern Virginia and is known for quality, great dance parties and special events. For information call 703 751 8868 or
dancelioudmila.com
