The Dance: First steps
One of the most memorable and romantic moments of your wedding day is your first dance together as a married couple.
You might be a bit worried about it — you want to create a romantic and elegant impression.
“You want to present something likable and memorable,” said Art Barber, a local dance instructor.
Barber has been teaching couples to dance for more than 30 years and offers dance lessons and choreography for all occasions.
For most couples, using a dance instructor is a great way to prepare for the wedding dance. Dance lessons are not just for the bride and groom; many times the entire wedding party will be in the spotlight during the wedding dance and should be prepared.
“Don’t assume that you will magically figure it out on your wedding day,” said Barber. “To dance together comfortably and without stepping on each other’s toes requires an understanding of dance position and partnering skills.”
Dance classes can be scheduled for the entire wedding party to attend as a group.
“It can be a fun way to involve your family and friends in the wedding planning,” Barber noted. “They will also want to look good at the wedding dance.”
Often a bride and groom will attend four to six lessons prior to their wedding, depending on their level of skill. If a special or unique dance style is chosen, a couple can spend weeks or months planning choreography and learning the style.
“The sky is the limit really as far as options for the bridal dance,” Barber said.
The fox-trot is the classic traditional wedding dance style, mostly because it is very easy to learn and works well with slow songs. The waltz is another favorite among couples and is a more formal style of dance. For something a little more sophisticated, consider the salsa, rumba and cha-cha. These are Latin dances that are fun and great to know, but require much more time to learn.
Whichever dance style you choose for your special day, remember that it is ultimately a special time meant to be shared by the two of you. A simple slow dance, swaying to a favorite song while wrapped in each other’s arms, works for many couples.
“I always recommend a simple slow dance pattern to couples,” Barber said.
A dance instructor can do more then simply teach a few dance steps. They may also assist with the selection of your special song and identifying the dance style that is compatible with the song.
“Outside of playing an instrument, dance is the greatest expression you can make toward music,” Barber noted.
Dancing has long been a popular hobby, and recently has taken the spotlight more and more because of popular television shows highlighting it.
“Dance is something you’ll use for life once you’re comfortable. You won’t just dance at your wedding and then discard it,” Barber said. “There are quite a few groups locally that hold dance events that are open to the public.”
Dance lessons can be a very affordable way to make your wedding more memorable.
“Lesson packages can start as low as a couple hundred dollars for basic instruction and range in price upward depending on your skill level and goals,” Barber noted.
Whether you’re already competent on the dance floor or have never taken a step to music, lessons will make your first dance together feel natural and effortless. You have both worked very hard to ensure that your wedding day will be full of memories that you will cherish for a lifetime. Dance lessons will help you take your first steps to a new life together with style.
Up North Bride Home » Spring 2011 Edition » The Dance: First steps