From dancer to videographer
As a professional dancer for 25 years, I have enjoyed performing on some of the world's most prestigious stages. My love for dance began at a young age, and I studied ballet and contemporary dance to hone my craft.
However, my creative passion now lies in wedding videography after retiring from the stage. I have watched countless first wedding dances in my work, and I thought I would give a few pointers that might help you before creating your first wedding dance.
First and foremost, it's important to remember that your first dance should reflect your personalities and your love story.
While choosing a popular song or replicating a choreographed routine you found online can be tempting, your first dance should be unique to you and your partner. Take some time to think about the type of dance you want to do and the style of music that best represents you both.
When choosing a song for your first dance, consider a few things. You want to choose a song that you both love and have a special meaning.
It's also important to think about the tempo and rhythm of the song, as this will affect the style of dance you choose to perform. If you're unsure about what type of dance to do, take some dance lessons to help you learn basic steps and gain confidence on the dance floor.
Practice makes perfect!
When it comes to actually performing your first dance, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, practice makes perfect! While it's unnecessary to choreograph an entire routine, it's important to practice a few simple steps and transitions to ensure you feel comfortable and confident. It's also a good idea to practice in the shoes you'll be wearing on the wedding day to ensure you can move comfortably and without tripping.
If you can, practice in a dress that has a similar trail to your wedding dress. Too many times, I've seen couples get caught in wedding dress because they weren't used to working with that amount material.
On the day of your wedding, remember to relax and have fun! Your first dance is a celebration of your love and should be joyful and memorable. Don't worry too much about perfecting every step – the most important thing is to enjoy the moment and share a special dance with your partner.
Your wedding day is one of your life's most important and memorable, and every moment counts. One of the most cherished moments is the first dance between the newlyweds.
While some couples may choose to keep their dance spontaneous and unchoreographed, others may decide to practice their first dance beforehand. Here are the pros and cons of practising your wedding first dance to help you decide what's best for you.
Pros:
Increased Confidence
Practising your first dance can help you feel more confident and comfortable performing in front of others. Dancing in front of family and friends can be intimidating, but with practice, you can increase your confidence levels and make the experience less daunting.
Improved Coordination
Rehearsing your dance can help you and your partner become more coordinated and in sync. This can make the dance more fluid and visually appealing to your guests.
Reduced Stress
Preparation is key to reducing stress, and preparing for your first dance is no exception. Practising can alleviate stress and anxiety on the wedding day, knowing that you have practised and feel prepared.
Personalisation
Practising your dance can allow you to personalize the routine and add unique touches or flourishes. You can work with your partner to create a dance that reflects your personalities and relationship, making the experience even more meaningful.
Memorable Moment
A well-executed first dance can be a memorable and romantic moment for both you and your guests. It can set the tone for the rest of the night and create an unforgettable memory for years to come.
Cons:
Time Commitment
Practising your first dance can be time-consuming, especially if you have limited availability due to work or other obligations. Finding time to practice can be challenging and may require sacrificing other activities or events.
Cost
Taking dance lessons or hiring a choreographer can be costly, which may not be feasible for all couples. If you have a limited budget, practising your first dance may not be a viable option.
Nerves
If you or your partner are already nervous about dancing in front of others, practising may exacerbate those feelings. The pressure to perform well can create additional anxiety and stress, making relaxing and enjoying the experience harder.
Overrehearsed
There is a risk of over-rehearsing and losing the spontaneity and natural flow of the dance. If you practice too much, the dance may become robotic and lack emotion, making it less enjoyable for you and your guests.
High Expectations
Practising your dance can lead to high expectations, resulting in disappointment if the performance doesn't meet those expectations. This can create additional stress and anxiety, especially if you or your partner are perfectionists.
Choosing your dance song
Choosing the right first dance wedding song can be exciting but daunting for many couples.
The first dance is a momentous occasion that sets the tone for the rest of the evening, and the song you choose should reflect your personalities, relationship, and love story. Here are some of the best first dance wedding songs and why choosing one that is meaningful to you both is so important.
The first dance is a chance for you and your partner to connect and celebrate your love through the medium of dance. A great first dance song will evoke emotions and memories that are special to you both.
It can be a song you both love and have sentimental value or simply one that speaks to your hearts. Stevie Wonder lyrics can hit the spot, and Ray Charles and Frank Sinatra have songs that speak to the heart.
A few first dance song examples
One of the best first dance wedding songs is "At Last" by Etta James. This timeless classic has been popular for decades and is often considered the quintessential first dance song. The romantic lyrics and soulful melody make it perfect for a slow, intimate dance.
Another great option is "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley. This iconic ballad perfectly represents the feelings of love and devotion that many couples share. It has been covered by many artists and is a popular choice for couples who want a classic, romantic song for their first dance.
For those who want a more upbeat and fun song, "You Are the Best Thing" by Ray LaMontagne is popular. This catchy tune has a fun, upbeat rhythm that will get you and your guests on the dance floor, and the lyrics speak to the joy and happiness that comes with being in love.
Choosing a song that has special meaning to you both is crucial. It could be a song that reminds you of a special moment in your relationship or one that you both just love. It's important to think about the lyrics and the song's overall message to ensure it truly reflects your relationship.
A special moment to connect
In addition to being meaningful, choosing a song that suits your personality and has a vibe you can express on the dance floor is also essential. A classic ballad might be the best fit if you're having a formal, elegant wedding. An upbeat song might be more appropriate if you're having a more casual, fun wedding.
The first dance is a special moment you and your partner will remember for the rest of your lives. Choosing the right song is key to making this moment memorable and meaningful. Whether you opt for a classic ballad or a more modern tune, make sure it's a song that speaks to your hearts and reflects your love story. After all, the first dance is about celebrating your connection and starting your life together as a married couple.
The first, first dance wedding I saw was a slow dance, minimal and not choreographed, but very moving as they connected on the dance floor, and the wedding guests loved it. Practising your wedding first dance has both pros and cons.
Ultimately, your decision to practice depends on your preferences and comfort level. If you and your partner decide to practice, make time and work with a professional if necessary.
On the other hand, if you choose to keep your dance spontaneous, try to relax and enjoy the moment of your wedding party, knowing that it will be a memorable experience regardless. Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating your love and commitment to each other, and the first dance is just one small part of that celebration.
Comments