From the research I found online, traditionally the first dance is for the Bride and Groom. It is a symbolic dance expressing that the two are joined in union. In traditional European weddings the dance was usually a Waltz. This tradition carried forward as Europeans immigrated to North America. Of course in today’s modern world, the dance is not as formal as it once was as not as many people are trained in classical dance. Usually the father/daughter dance would come second, to symbolize the father giving his daughter away to the Groom, and the Mother/Son dance was just added on in more recent times.
As a wedding photographer I love some tradition, but I love even more when a couple adapts those traditions to make them personal or true to their own personalities. Or scrap them if they do not feel right! Like I always say, DO YOU!
(I personally gave up the garter and bouquet toss because I just did not want to be on display like that and I find it a little cheesy- but to each their own and they are super fun to photograph!)
Here are some fun FIRST DANCE ideas I captured the last year, maybe they will give you an idea or two!
Enjoy the outdoors and dance outside surrounding by your family and friends
Dancing at twilight or sunset is always so pretty!
Have fun with your first dance, choose a song you love and makes you smile!
Just be yourself!
or go the opposite route and hire a choreographer for a more formal dance
Include the children or your loved ones!
Or dance alone, outdoors, just the two of you (and your photographer) :)
Some other first dance tips from me:
Do your first dance before dinner, when you first arrive to your reception. You may have more light at that time (which your photographer may appreciate) but you can get it done and relax after dinner! And it usually gets the attention of all your guests
Dance immediately after your ceremony, in the same spot you got married.
have your guests surround you in a circle while you dance
If you do not want to dance alone, invite your parents or other couples to join you on the dance floor.
I would love to hear your first dance tips in the comments below! What did you do or what have you seen that you love?
