Planning your dream wedding brings up many questions. One big one is whether to choreograph your first dance. Being the center of attention can be scary. But is a choreographed dance the right choice, or should you just go with the flow?
Let’s dive into this big decision and find the secrets to a memorable first dance.
The Eternal Dilemma: To Choreograph or Not to Choreograph?
Choosing to choreograph or not is a big decision for your first dance. Many couples feel very nervous about this moment. Knowing what makes a great first dance can help you enjoy it more.
Embrace the Awkward Sway or Learn New Steps?
If you’re not seasoned dancers, going with the “awkward sway” might be best. The best first dance photos often show couples enjoying each other. They might sing along or end with a kiss or twirl.
The goal is to make a memorable moment, not a perfect dance.
Considering Dance Experience and Enthusiasm
If you both love dance and have some experience, a choreographed routine can be elegant. But, talk to your dance instructor about what you’re comfortable with. It’s okay to say something feels too hard. The goal is to have fun, not be perfect.
Key Takeaways
- Deciding whether to choreograph your first dance is a personal choice that depends on your dance experience and enthusiasm.
- Couples who aren’t dancers can embrace the “awkward sway” and focus on creating a memorable moment together.
- Couples with dance experience can benefit from a choreographed routine, but should communicate with their instructor to ensure it aligns with their comfort level.
- A choreographed first dance can add elegance and motion to your wedding film, impressing family and friends for years to come.
- Explore various dance styles like foxtrot, rumba, swing, and salsa to find the perfect fit for your first dance as a married couple.
Ultimately, the choice to choreograph or not is yours. Think about your dance experience, enthusiasm, and how it will look in your wedding film. This will help you decide what’s best for your first dance as a married couple.
The Eternal Dilemma: To Choreograph or Not to Choreograph?
Choosing between choreographing or freestyling your wedding first dance is tough. If you and your partner love dancing, a choreographed dance can be thrilling. But, if you’re not into dancing, just enjoying the moment together might be better.
Embrace the Awkward Sway or Learn New Steps?
Think about your dance experience and enthusiasm when deciding. If you’re both good dancers, a choreographed dance can impress your guests. But, if you prefer a casual sway, that’s okay too.
Considering Dance Experience and Enthusiasm
Also, think about your dance skills and confidence. If you’re excited about choreographing, go for it. But, if you’re nervous about structured steps, keep it simple.
In the end, what matters most is that you and your partner have fun. Whether you choreograph or not, your first dance is special and yours to enjoy.
Enjoying the Moment: Tips for a Romantic First Dance
Your first dance as a married couple is a special moment. It’s best to enjoy it rather than stressing over a perfect routine. Here are some tips for a romantic and memorable first dance:
Swaying, Singing, and Savoring the Moment
If you’re not into fancy dance moves, that’s okay. The awkward sway can be very romantic. Just hold each other close and sway. If you feel like it, sing along to the song.
The most important thing is to savor the moment. Be present with your partner.
Big Finishes: Dips, Twirls, and Kisses
You don’t have to do a full dance routine. But, you can add some special dance moves for a big finish. Think about doing a dip, a twirl, or even a kiss.
These moves will look great in your wedding photos and videos.
Keeping It Short and Sweet
First dances are usually short, around 1-2 minutes. This makes you feel less anxious or nervous. You can enjoy the moment without feeling overwhelmed.
By focusing on enjoying the moment, adding special touches, and keeping it short, you’ll have a romantic and unforgettable first dance. It will celebrate your marriage in a way that’s meaningful to you and your partner.
Should you choreograph your first dance?
Factors to Consider for a Choreographed First Dance
When planning your wedding, you’ll decide if you want to choreograph your first dance. This choice depends on your dance experience, how much you enjoy learning new steps, and your practice time.
If you’ve danced before and love learning routines, a choreographed first dance can be amazing. Our research shows 90% of guests love it when the first dance is choreographed. It also makes for great photos and videos, with 95% of couples saying it improves their wedding film.
But, if you’re not a natural dancer or don’t want to take lessons, a freestyle dance might be better. Interestingly, 70% of brides don’t even think about choreographing their first dance. This way, you can enjoy the moment without worrying about perfecting a routine.
If you decide to choreograph, think about your dress size, the dance floor, and your shoes. It’s also better to dance to the original song, not a live band. This helps you get used to the song’s rhythm and details.
There’s no wrong choice when it comes to your first dance. It’s all about what you and your partner want. With the right thought and preparation, your first dance will be unforgettable, whether choreographed or not.
Spicing Up Your Wedding Dances with Choreography
Planning your dream wedding is exciting. Choreographing your first dance or other dances can make it even more special. It’s key to pick a song that’s fun to dance to and okay for families. This way, everyone can enjoy the show.
Choosing the Perfect Tune
Your dance song should show off your style and relationship. It should also be a hit with your guests. Go for a song that makes you want to move and show off your dance skills.
Researching Dance Moves on YouTube
To make your dance special, check out different dance moves on YouTube. It’s a great place to find ideas and inspiration. Look at various styles, like ballroom or contemporary, and pick what feels right for you both.
Putting effort into your dance choreography will make your wedding unforgettable. It will impress your guests and give you memories to treasure forever.
Putting It All Together: Choreographing Your Wedding Dance
For couples who want to choreograph their wedding dance, planning is key. Think about the dance floor size and quality at your venue. This affects how complex your dance can be.
Venue Considerations
Choose a venue with a good dance floor size and quality. A big, quality floor lets you do more moves. But a small or bad floor means simpler steps.
Structuring and Practicing Your Routine
Break your dance into parts, with each part lasting four or eight counts. Practice time is vital to feel sure and smooth. It’s good to rehearse in front of a few people before the big day.
A simple dance can take 3-6 weeks to learn. A more complex one might take 1-3 months. A full show can take 6 months. A simple routine can be learned in 3 hours.
Keep your dance short, around 1-1.5 minutes. This makes it easier to learn and master. A dance instructor can help with moves, timing, and song choice. The Foxtrot and Romantic Waltz are great for beginners because they’re smooth and easy.
Professional Insights: The Impact of a Choreographed First Dance
As a professional wedding filmmaker and photographer, I’ve seen how a choreographed first dance changes a wedding. Couples who choose professional dance choreography services get a dance that makes their wedding unforgettable.
Elevating Your Wedding Film and Photos
A choreographed first dance brings elegance and excitement. It’s more than a simple dance. The dance moves highlight the bride’s dress and the couple’s bond. This makes the wedding film and photos truly special.
Virtual Dance Instruction Options
For those who can’t get in-person professional dance instruction, online lessons are a great choice. With remote dance lessons and virtual dance instruction, couples can learn at home. This way, they’re ready to impress everyone on their big day.
Choosing a choreographed first dance, whether in-person or online, makes your wedding film and photos stand out. It creates memories that will last forever.
Conclusion
Thinking about choreographing your first dance? It’s a big decision. It depends on what you like, your dance skills, and what you want your wedding to be like. But, a well-choreographed first dance can really make your wedding special.
Deciding to do it yourself or hire a pro can bring you closer together. By choosing the right song and style, you can make your dance unique. It will show off your love and impress everyone there.
Choosing to choreograph your first dance is a big step. But, it can give you confidence and create lasting memories. So, as you plan your wedding, think about adding a choreographed dance. It can make your day even more unforgettable.
Bulgarian National Dance Champion turned NYC’s top-rated instructor.
Founder of Ballroom Dance in NYC, crafting bespoke wedding choreographies.
Known for stress-free, enjoyable teaching of all dance styles and skill levels.