The First Dance

This is when the fun begins and the party gets going!

by Shelley Waugh
The song that you choose for your first dance is usually one that has special meaning for the both of you. As the stars of the celebration, you will be watched by everyone when you share your first dance together. It might be worth practicing this before show time.

• Traditionally, while the Bride and Groom are dancing and before the song is almost over, the father of the Bride breaks in to dance with his daughter. The Groom then dances with his mother-in-law.

• The Bride then dances with her father-in-law and the Groom dances with his mother.

• The Bride then dances with the Best Man, and the Groom with the Maid of Honor.

• The DJ or master of ceremonies then invites the other members of the wedding party onto the dance floor, followed by the guests.

• During the course of the reception, the Bride usually dances with each Groomsman and the Ring Bearer, if there is one; and the Groom with each bridesmaids and the Flower Girl, if there is one.

Practice. Practice. Practice.
You and your fiancé have taken the time to select "your song" to be played for your first dance and the first dance with your father.

If either of you or members of your family are shy about dancing in front of your guests, there are ballroom dance studios listed in the yellow pages where you can learn how to dance to the songs you have selected. You can learn the basic steps that cover everything from waltzing, rumbas, rock 'n roll to reggae! If you are going to take lessons, give yourself time to practice them - and go dancing as much as you can before your wedding!

Taking dancing lessons
The Dancing with the Stars television series has taken ballroom dancing to a new level and shown the value of taking lessons from a dance instructor and learning how to practice. Most ballroom dance schools have wedding packages that will help you get ready for your First Dance as well as for any member of your family or your wedding party.

When all eyes are watching you, even the smallest detail is important as you guide through the steps when you move around the floor to your First Dance. If you are nervous about your dance taking lessons will build confidence especially with intricate turns. Dance instructors can also help you select a special song if you don't have one.

Dance Packages usually include a number of hours of class instructions, private lessons and practice time, and covers the basics of the rumba, cha-cha, waltz, foxtrot and swing. When shopping for a dance class or school, ask if you can add any one of their packages to your Gift Registry.