Top First Dance Tips by Sussex Wedding Photographer
Hello Future Newlyweds,
As you plan your special day, let’s turn any first dance nerves into confidence and joy. From choosing the perfect song to feeling comfortable on the dance floor, these top tips will help make your first dance a magical and memorable part of your celebration.
What is the First Dance at a Wedding?
The first dance is a cherished tradition where the newlyweds take the dance floor for the first time as a married couple. It's a heartfelt moment symbolising their unity and love, often accompanied by a special song chosen by the couple.
The Historical Tapestry of First Dances
The origins of the first dance can be traced back to ancient times when various cultures celebrated weddings with ceremonial dances. In medieval Europe, the first dance held symbolic significance, serving as a public display of the newlyweds' commitment and status within the community.
During the Victorian era, the first dance evolved into a refined affair, often featuring the waltz, a dance characterised by its graceful movements and romantic allure. It was a moment of grandeur and sophistication, where newlyweds would glide across the ballroom floor in a mesmerising embrace.
As the 20th century unfolded, the first dance embraced the changing times, reflecting the cultural shifts and musical trends of each era. From the exuberant dances of the Jazz Age to the timeless ballads of the post-war era, couples embraced the first dance as a symbol of their love and devotion
Today, the first dance continues to evolve, with couples infusing their own personalities and style into the tradition. Whether it's a classic slow dance or a choreographed extravaganza, the first dance remains a poignant expression of the newlyweds' unique bond and shared dreams.
Conquering First Dance Jitters on Your Wedding Day
Your wedding day is a magical celebration of love, commitment, and new beginnings. Amidst the excitement and anticipation, one moment stands out as both thrilling and nerve-wracking: the first dance. If the mere thought of stepping onto the dance floor fills you with butterflies, fear not! Here's a guide to help you overcome those nerves and make your first dance a truly unforgettable experience.
Embrace the Practice Sessions
Practice makes perfect, and this holds true for your first dance. Consider taking dance lessons with your partner to build confidence and learn some basic moves. Not only will this ease your nerves, but it will also strengthen your bond as you navigate the steps together.
Choose the Right Song
The music sets the tone for your first dance, so choose a song that resonates with you as a couple. Whether it's a classic ballad, a lively tune, or a sentimental favorite, opt for a song that reflects your love story and makes you feel comfortable and connected.
Visualise Success
Visualisation can be a powerful tool to calm your nerves and boost your confidence. Take a few moments each day to visualise yourself gracefully gliding across the dance floor with your partner, surrounded by love and applause. Envisioning a successful first dance can help alleviate anxiety and instill a sense of calmness.
Focus on Your Partner
Instead of worrying about your performance or how you look, focus on your partner and the love you share. Remember that your first dance is a celebration of your relationship, not a dance competition. Keep your eyes locked on each other, and let the rest of the world fade away as you revel in the moment together.
Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
In the days leading up to your wedding, incorporate mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your routine to help manage stress and anxiety. Whether it's deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle yoga stretches, find what works for you and make it a priority to practice self-care.
Seek Support from Loved Ones
Don't hesitate to lean on your loved ones for support and encouragement. Share your feelings with your partner, bridal party, or close friends and family members. Their words of encouragement and reassurance can provide a much-needed confidence boost as you prepare for your first dance.
Remember: It's Okay to Be Nervous
Lastly, remember that it's completely normal to feel nervous before your first dance. Embrace the butterflies in your stomach as a sign of excitement and anticipation. Trust in your preparation, focus on the love you share with your partner, and allow yourself to enjoy every moment of this special day.
Your wedding first dance is a beautiful expression of your love and commitment, and overcoming nerves to create a magical moment is part of the journey. With these tips and a positive mindset, you'll step onto the dance floor with confidence, ready to dance the night away and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Not Sure How To Dance?
There are so many resources out there to help you with your first dance if you not the biggest dance, from videos like the one below teaching you basic steps:
And Finally Most Popular First Dance Songs
Choosing the best first dance song for your wedding is a deeply personal decision that should reflect your unique love story and personalities as a couple. Here are the top 10 most popular songs according to wedding planning website Hitched survey:
1. Can't Help Falling in Love - Elvis Presley
2. At Last - Etta James
3. Perfect - Ed Sheeran
4. Amazed - Lonestar
5. Baby I'm Yours - Arctic Monkeys
6. The One - Kodaline
7. Stand by Me - Ben E. King
8. Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran
9. All of Me - John Legend
10. Pointless - Lewis Capaldi
These songs have stood the test of time and are beloved by couples for their romantic lyrics, beautiful melodies, and timeless appeal. However, feel free to choose a song that holds special meaning to you and your partner, whether it's a classic ballad, a contemporary hit, or a song that you both adore.
When selecting your first dance song, consider factors such as the tempo, lyrics, and emotional resonance. Ultimately, the best first dance song is one that speaks to your hearts and creates a magical moment that you'll cherish forever. Trust your instincts, follow your hearts, and let the music set the stage for a truly unforgettable first dance as newlyweds.
Curious to see how other couples celebrated their special day? Explore real wedding stories from the wonderful couples I’ve had the honour of photographing.
Every couple has those stand-out memories that rise above the rest: a glance during the vows, a speech that made everyone cry, a quiet moment stolen away from the crowd. In this blog post, I’ve asked couples to share the memories they’ll carry with them forever — the ones that made their day truly magical.