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Having the perfect first dance at a wedding can create a magical moment that you'll remember forever!
It is a time when you have the entire wedding party captivated, watching and listening intently, with love and admiration for the new bride and groom.
From my many years of attending and playing at weddings, here are some first dance tips for your wedding day... making your special day truly unforgettable:
First Dance Tips for your Wedding Day!
1. Choose a Song with Personal Meaning
Pick a song that holds special significance for you as a couple. Whether it's a track that reminds you of a key moment in your relationship or one that reflects your shared tastes, personal connection to the song makes the moment more intimate.
Perhaps create a playlist with songs you think could be a good fit and sit with that for a few weeks. You'll know when the time is right!
2. Consider the Mood and Tempo
Decide if you want a slow, romantic song or something more upbeat and fun. The tempo will guide your dance style, so choose something that matches your energy and comfort level. A slower song allows for more intimate moments, while an upbeat song can show off fun choreography or lifts.
This will very much depend on your confidence and skills on the dance floor; it will come across more natural if it's something you're both familiar with, and confident sharing with others watching.
You might like to think about blending a few different styles. For example, you can take things really slow and intimate, add in a few fancy moves for the photographer (do these a couple of times), and perhaps something fun and silly to lighten the mood, then maybe ending on a romantic touch.
3. Practice the Dance
Even if you're not professional dancers, taking a few lessons or practicing a routine can help you feel more confident. Learning some basic steps or working with a dance instructor to choreograph a simple routine will make the dance flow smoothly.
Do you want to be over prepared? Film yourselves doing the dance!!!
You'll get instant feedback on what looks good, what you want to change, your level of eye contact and which moves you might want to prioritise.
4. Make Sure the Song Length is Right
Many wedding songs are longer than necessary for a first dance. Consider cutting down the song to 2-3 minutes, which is usually a perfect amount of time to hold attention without feeling like it’s dragging on.
Talk to Stu about your preferred song length, and he can mix and blend your first dance track smoothly into the first dance floor banger to bring the entire crowd together and get the party started!
5. Focus on Sound Quality
Ensure the audio setup is optimal. I've seen first dances with a live band, solo musician, DJ and everything in-between - you can't really go wrong, as long as the sound quality is on point!
You're wanting to provide a crisp, clear sound at a volume where your guests can enjoy the moment but still hear the music clearly.
I always ensure I've done a couple of test runs of the sound system and song before the big moment and it is always a super smooth part of the night from my end!
6. Consider a Father & Daughter or Mother & Son Dance
This is an option you might consider based on personal preference. There is absolutely no rule to have, or not have a Father & Daughter dance - it's just what feels right for you!
My recommendation is (if you do take this option) to stick with one (maybe two) songs for the First Dance. When the crowd is silent and a song is being played, that is the glue that holds the moment together, so it makes sense to keep that vibe consistent and work your magic within that space.
Switching between too many songs, too quickly can negatively affect the mood and it becomes less memorable.
From my perspective, I think it would make sense for the Father & Daughter and/or Mother & Son dance to happen first (for about a minute or so), then handing bride and groom to each other for 2 or 3 minutes, then that blends straight into the party.
I've seen this part of the night become really disjointed too many times, so I strongly suggest having a good think about the flow if you choose to add dances in!
7. Get a Live Performance for Extra Impact
If your budget allows, consider hiring a live musician or band to perform your first dance song. Live music can add a unique emotional layer, making the moment even more special.
Chat to Stu about Bamboo Baby - one of New Zealand's top wedding bands - and song selections for a first dance and party anthems!
8. Think About the Floor Layout
Make sure you have enough space to move comfortably and that guests can see you. A circular dance floor allows everyone to feel like part of the moment and creates a beautiful, natural viewing experience.
Think about the size of the circle and how much space you need for your particular routine - you want the photos to capture an intimate moment with everyone together; I encourage you to be particular and perhaps ask the photographer to really help with framing the shot well!
9. Stay in the Moment
Don’t worry too much about perfection. The most important part is that you're enjoying the moment together, and being your real, authentic selves. Focus on each other rather than nailing every step, as the genuine connection and emotion will shine through to your guests.
Before the wedding day, and in your practice runs, talk about eye contact - this creates the most magical connection and is such a beautiful touch for photographs. I've seen too many grooms get nervous about steps, and the whole time they end up looking down at their feet, instead of gazing into the eyes of their beautiful bride!
With the right planning and thoughtful musical choices, your first dance can become a real highlight of your wedding day!
In any case, working with Stu will ensure you have all aspects of the first dance covered, leaving you to focus on the your special someone and the dance itself.
I look forward to making your Wedding Day a huge success!
Kindly,
