The Complete Wedding First Dance Guide

A typical first dance lasts between 2 and 3 minutes. That is usually enough time for you to enjoy the moment without making your guests watch for too long. If your song is longer, you can fade it out after a couple of minutes or have the DJ mix into another track.

If you are not confident dancers, keep it shorter. A minute and a half can feel just right. You can also ask your DJ or band to play a shorter version of your chosen song. The key is to keep it comfortable for you both.

The choice is usually down to you as a couple, but it is fine to involve others if you want. Some couples choose a song that means something to them, while others pick a tune that makes them smile. You might ask your parents for suggestions, but the final decision should be yours.

Think about the mood you want. A slow, romantic song works for a traditional dance, but you could also choose something upbeat or with a personal story. The most important thing is that the song feels right for you both.

If you want dance lessons, start about 3 to 4 months before the wedding. That gives you plenty of time to learn a few moves and feel comfortable. If you are short on time, even a few weeks of practice can help.

You do not have to take formal lessons. Many couples practise at home in the kitchen. The goal is to feel relaxed and not to worry about your feet. If you do take lessons, tell the teacher your skill level and what you want to achieve, whether that is a simple sway or a choreographed routine.

There is no fixed rule. Traditionally, the couple has their first dance first, and then other dances follow. After your first dance, you might invite your parents to join you, or you might have a separate father daughter dance and mother son dance.

In many weddings, the order is: couple first, then the bride with her father, and then the groom with his mother. But you can change this to suit your family. Some couples dance with both parents at the same time, or they include step parents and other important family members. The key is to plan the order that feels right for you and to tell your DJ or band in advance.

The best way to avoid awkwardness is to practise. Even a few run throughs at home will help you feel more confident. On the day, try to focus on each other rather than the guests. Look into each other's eyes and talk to each other if you need to.

You can also set up a signal with your partner to step back and laugh if something goes wrong. Many couples have a little joke or a spin to break the tension. Remember that your guests are on your side. They want you to enjoy the moment, not to judge your dancing.

If you are nervous, you can ask your DJ to dim the lights or have guests join in after a minute. You could also have a friend or family member give a short toast before the dance to relax the mood.

Most couples have their first dance after the meal and speeches, often just before the evening guests arrive or as the evening party begins. This is usually around 7 or 8 pm. Having it then means your daytime guests are still there, and it marks the start of the evening dancing.

Some couples prefer to have it earlier, right after the meal, while others wait until later. Think about your timeline and when your guests are most likely to be on the dance floor. If you have evening guests arriving, you might want to have the first dance before they arrive so it feels more intimate.

Do choose a song that means something to you both. Do practise, even if it is just a few times. Do agree on a signal to end the dance if you feel uncomfortable. Do tell your DJ or band the exact length of the song and when to fade it out.

Don't choose a song that is too long unless you plan to fade it. Don't try complicated moves if you are not confident. Don't worry about what other people think. Don't forget to enjoy the moment and smile.

Other do's: make sure your outfit allows you to move, and ask your photographer to capture the moment from a good angle. Don't forget to have a backup plan if the music fails or if one of you feels unwell.