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 Beaux &
Belles @ www.dances4u.co.uk 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 TopTips.
· 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.
· 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. (Check out www.alivenetwork.com for some helpful tips).
·
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
· 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)
· 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.
· Find a choreographer
local to you and decide if you want lessons at your home, or in their studio.
· Dance lessons are different to having your own piece of romantic music choreographed,
which do you want to go for?
· If you do wish to perform a certain style
of dance, waltz, jive etc make sure your music reflects this dance style.
·
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 Amazon or website www.dances4u.co.uk
£15.99 and teaches two contrasting dance styles, waltz and salsa,
using full in depth tuition.
Article Kindly Provided By Sam Jennings @ Beaux
& Belles @ www.dances4u.co.uk |
