Each wedding story offers the opportunity for a new bride to learn from the brides before her - what she would plan the same, and what she would plan completely different.
And, that's why I would like to share a not-so-perfect moment from my wedding. So I can give you some advice, on how to plan differently for your big day.
The moment I'm referring to is the first dance with my husband, Rich.
As you've probably already read, our first dance was far from perfect. (If you haven't read our wedding dance story yet, you can find it here.) It wasn't just not perfect, it made us feel uncomfortable and nervous - two emotions that you definitely try to avoid on your wedding day.
Like many engaged couples, I don’t think preparing for our first dance was even on our radar at the time. It wasn’t until the DJ announced us onto the floor, that the nerves kicked in, and we realized we should have prepared for this moment.
But the beauty of experiencing that moment, is that hindsight is 20/20, and we can now share with you some of the changes we would have made, if we could go back in time.
I will show you three simple ways to ensure your first dance moment is an enjoyable one.
Plan for your dance
Just like how your entire wedding day needs a plan to help things run smoothly, so does your first dance.
It's a good idea to sit down with your fiance' and have a conversation of what each of you are envisioning for your first dance. Here are some things to consider in the planning phase.
Do you plan to:
Learn a choreographed routine.
Learn a few moves and dance them on the fly.
Just wing it, and hope for the best.
There are no right or wrong answers, but whichever choice you make, plan early.
Planning early will give you enough time to way the pro's and con's of each of these choices, and get clear on what you really want for your first dance.
Prepare for your dance
Being prepared is your saving grace to feeling relaxed during your first dance.
It will give you an idea of what to expect, and make you feel like you have things under control.
Here are a few things for you and your partner to think about, to help you both feel prepared.
What song will you dance to.
How will you hold each other.
How and where will you enter the dance floor
What moves will you be dancing.
How will you end your dance and exit the dance floor.
Answering these questions will put your mind at ease, and will give you a clear idea of what to expect during your dance, so you can relax and enjoy it.
Practice your dance
Even just a quick run through of your dance, can make a world of difference for your moment on the dance floor.
It will help you...
Become comfortable dancing together.
Run through your dance before anyone sees it.
Work out all the kinks so you'll have a polished look.
Feel confident entering, and exiting the dance floor.
This will give you a chance to take what you and your partner are envisioning for your first dance, and put it to the test. You will have the chance to try it out and make as many changes needed until you're happy with it.
Recap
Planning, Preparing, and Practicing for your first dance will not only ensure that you're looking your best on the dance floor, but it's also a great way to take a break from wedding planning, to destress and focus on connecting with your partner, while having some fun together.
Had we done nothing more than this for our first dance, our anxiety would've been replaced with enjoyment, and I think yours will too.
After all, that’s what it’s all about!
