💃 The First Dance Isn’t Just a Tradition—It’s a Memory in Motion (and Why It Deserves More Than a Sway)

I love working with wedding couples. There’s something magical (and slightly chaotic) about that pre-wedding energy—a whirlwind of checklists, emotions, and the occasional Pinterest-fueled meltdown. But as a dance instructor, I wish more couples knew this simple truth: your first dance deserves more than a sway and a smile.

I’ve seen it too many times—couples pushing their dance to the bottom of the to-do list, promising themselves they’ll “wing it” on the day. But here’s the thing: the first dance isn’t just a cute photo op or a box to check. It’s a moment of stillness and connection in the middle of a very big, very busy day. It’s a memory in motion.

Unlike the flowers or favors, your first dance is the one part of the day that you can’t delegate. You have to show up for it—together. And that’s a beautiful thing. Because learning to dance is more than movement. It’s teamwork. It’s laughter. It’s realizing one of you turns left when the other turns right and somehow, you both end up laughing instead of falling. It’s marriage training with music.

And let’s not forget—it’s fun. Weekly lessons become a date night. You get a little cardio, a lot of connection, and maybe even a signature move or two. (The dip is optional, but highly encouraged.)

But the real power of the first dance? It’s what your guests feel when they watch. Your friends, your family, your Aunt Carol who flew in from Arizona—they won’t remember what color the napkins were. But they will remember how you looked at each other. How you moved together. How you made them feel. That dance becomes a symbol of your love, your chemistry, your commitment.

So go take those lessons. Learn the box step. Laugh when you step on each other’s toes. And give yourselves a moment on the dance floor that’s truly yours.

“Behind every great wedding photo is a couple who practiced their first dance more than their vows.” – Me, probably :)