The First Dance
- Studio Tip Tap Toe
- Feb 22, 2017
- 2 min read
The first dance is an element in a number of traditions, being an opening of a certain dance function: ball, matric dance, wedding, etc
The "first dance" of a married couple is a popular element at modern day wedding receptions or post-wedding celebrations. The newly married couple, as the guests of honour at a dance, open the dancing. The style of dance is a personal choice. Some couples opt for a rehearsed, choreographed dance, whereas others opt for a non-choreographed dance.
In the past, the couple did not dance the first dance alone. In her 1922 guide, Etiquette, Emily Post recommended that newlyweds not join the dancing until after their guests had begun, and simply dance with one another first before moving on to other partners. This occurred while other guests continued dancing, and was not given particular attention or treated as a performance.
In the current times, ballroom dance is not a skill that is common within society. Therefore, some modern couples either slow dance or learn a dance, whether it be a ballroom dance style or a choreographed dance routine. The music to which they dance is also highly varied, with modern chart hits often being selected. Teaching and rehearsing the "first dance" is now a service offered by dance studios, independent dance instructors and specialist wedding dance tuition companies.
Studio Tip Tap Toe offers various packages for wedding dance lessons to cater for different wedding couples. You are welcome to visit our weddings page and browse through and feel free to contact us for any additional information or to book your complimentary lesson.
