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The First Dance - Top tips for your First Dance

The first dance is a tradition that has been an important part of wedding ceremonies around the world, and some specialist companies are encouraging couples to take it seriously by creating a magical dance that's extra special for the big day! What better way to entertain your guests and get the party swinging and going? For years people have shuffled in a circle, but now they want to look good and enjoy dancing too!?

Specialist companies such as Beaus & Belles are now encouraging couples to take the first dance more seriously by choreographing a unique and magical routine for that special occasion. Traditionally a couple may have played this safe by dancing a waltz routine, symbolically the most romantic of all dance styles, but now couples choose more contemporary styles and songs. Love ballads such as Barry White's my first, my last,my everything or Stevie Wonder's I love everything about you are common, as is Frank Sinatra's Fly me to the moon. Perhaps the more adventurous try a slow romantic start with quicker interludes such as songs by Queen Don't stop me now or even mix their own. Other couples even choose a slow dance and a quick routine within the same evening e.g. a waltz followed by a jive!

Traditionally, the bride and groom take to the floor for the first dance, however other cultures arrange the dance differently. This is true for many Asian weddings where instead, the family members of the couple create a fun and exciting dance. These can range from Bollywood style themes including Dandiraas where the family of the bride and groom perform with sticks, rotating in intricate circles. Of course Asian weddings are known to last up to a week.

Whatever the format, the first dance can be a daunting experience. With two left feet it may be difficult to over come these nerves. So how can couples prepare for a first dance? Here are some top tips:

o Find suitable music that you are both happy with. Dance experts suggest 3 minutes maximum. If you are beginners, a moderate speed with easy to hear rhythm would be ideal. However if you are a more accomplished couple choose a faster or slower rhythm to add creativity to your routine. Very slow 4/4s leave the choreographer little chance to do much with the steps.

o If you have booked a band find out if they can play your chosen song. However be aware of the limitations of songs the band can play, as instrumentation may restrict them.

o Consider what you are wearing. For example will you have restricted movement or think about how you will tackle the train. Wear similar shoes in practice to those you will be wearing at your wedding

o Find a reputable company. It's better if you can speak to your choreographer before meeting him/her. A choreographer needs to have a diverse training (look out for RAD, ISTD or IDTA trained teachers)

o 1-2-1 lessons are far better than group lessons for learning, so the price may be higher, but be assured to learn more and have fun.

o Find a choreographer local to you and decide if you want lessons at your home, or in their studio.

o Dance lessons are different to having your own piece of romantic music choreographed, which do you want to go for?

o If you do wish to perform a certain style of dance, waltz, jive etc make sure your music reflects this dance style.

o Practice makes possible - Practice between dance lessons and above all enjoy the lessons, as they are good stress busters!

Most couples opt for a full routine, but if you are very nervous, have a short choreographed dance. It might be a good idea to have some general dance lessons together before embarking on dance. If you can't find lessons in your area, or find them rather expensive, try a unique and exciting DVD practice beforehand such as First Dance Fever which is available from Beaus & Belles website and teaches two contrasting dance styles, waltz and salsa, using full in depth tuition.

With Many Thanks To Beaus & Belles for the above article.

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