Blog

21/10/2025

Finding the Perfect First Dance Song: Why Tempo (and Practice!) Matter

Your first dance is one of the most magical moments of your wedding day- just you, your partner, and a song that feels like yours. It doesn’t need to look like “Strictly Come Dancing” to be beautiful. What matters most is choosing a song and a style that feel natural, comfortable, and full of love.

Why Around 100 BPM Is the Sweet Spot:

When it comes to song choice, tempo makes all the difference. A song that’s around 100 beats per minute (BPM) tends to be ideal for first dances- it’s not too fast and not too slow.
At this speed, you’ll find it easier to move together without feeling rushed, and it allows for gentle turns, dips, or simple steps that flow naturally with the music. Anything much slower can lead to the classic “awkward sway”, while faster songs can be tricky unless you’ve got dance experience.

Some great examples around this tempo include: “Perfect” - Ed Sheeran, “At Last” - Etta James, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” - Kina Grannis version, and “You Are the Best Thing” - Ray LaMontagne.

These all have a steady rhythm that makes it easy to connect and enjoy the moment.

You Don’t Have to Be Dancers to Shine.

Here’s the truth: most couples aren’t seasoned dancers- and that’s absolutely fine! Your first dance doesn’t have to be a show-stopping routine. What makes it memorable is the connection between you both.
With just a bit of practice, even a simple routine can look graceful and confident. Having a few steps planned out means you’ll feel calmer, more in sync, and able to actually enjoy the moment instead of worrying about what to do next.

Practice = Confidence (and Fun!).

Practicing your first dance together isn’t just about looking good- it’s about spending quality couple time. Those moments laughing, stepping on each other’s toes, and finding your rhythm are part of the joy.
By practicing in advance, you’ll reduce those pre-wedding nerves and avoid the stiff “hug-and-sway” shuffle. Instead, you’ll step onto the dance floor feeling relaxed, connected, and ready to create a moment you’ll both remember forever.

So pick a song that makes your hearts smile, get a feel for the beat, and have a little fun learning something together. Whether it’s elegant, playful, or totally your own- your first dance will be uniquely you.

29/08/2025

Why First Dance Lessons Are a Far Better Choice Than Just Following an Online Routine

At West Hen Events, based right here in Northumberland and focused on weddings and hen parties, we believe your first dance deserves more than a YouTube or copy-paste tutorial. With personalized choreography and in-person tuition by seasoned, stage-trained dancers, we aim to make your big moment not only graceful (or not graceful at all if that’s more your flavour!) but unforgettable, and unique.
Whether you’re getting hitched at a stunning venue like Alnwick Garden, The Willows at the Woodmans, or somewhere else equally beautiful in Northumberland- your first dance should feel tailored to your love story and your surroundings. That’s why we create choreography specially made for you, incorporating your song choice, outfit, and even how far apart your dance floor is.

1. Live Guidance Beats the Static Screen

When dancing is being filmed, (which let’s face it, it likely will be by someone) your posture, timing, and body alignment matter- especially in a moment as watched as your first dance. In-person lessons give you immediate, hands-on corrections that online videos simply can’t match.

Trust us- sometimes when something looks or feels a little awkward, a very simple tweak given by a dancer’s knowing eye can make all the difference.

2. Tension-Free Confidence in the Spotlight

Dancing in front of friends and family can bring nerves, even for natural movers. Experts agree that structured lessons help reduce anxiety and make your dance feel effortless rather than staged.

Rather than awkwardly swaying or standing apart, (like many couples end up doing when they go “winging it”), your in-person preparation boosts confidence and allows you to connect, gaze, and be fully present in the moment. Bonus points- lessons and practice make for good date days!

3. A Shared Experience That Strengthens Your Bond

Learning that choreography together isn’t just practical; it’s deeply meaningful. Many couples describe first dance lessons as fun, intimate, and a unique part of the planning journey. It lightens the mood during stressful wedding prep and gives you something special to share.

And in Northumberland, there’s something magical about practicing in local studios or even near one of our region’s picturesque venues- adding personal charm to the experience.

4. Fit Your Lifestyle and Rehearse at Your Own Pace

While some couples do enjoy the convenience of online lessons- especially if they’re busy or out of town⁣- they lack personalized pace and feedback.

West Hen Events combines the best of both worlds: in-person coaching plus supporting practice videos you can use at home, which are custom-tailored to your specific choreography.

5. Easily Blend Practice with Pre-Wedding Plans

Dance lessons with professionals like West Hen Events aren’t just fun- they’re efficient. Research suggests 5-10 lessons over several months builds competence and confidence.

It’s not only about the dance; you’ll also be more capable of moving in heels, and know how to confidently hold yourself ready for future events too.

6. Keep the Memory and the Moves Long After the Day

Your first dance can become your couple’s signature, not just a one-off. Families who took lessons often say it’s still the “best part of the wedding, everyone’s still talking about it.”

With West Hen Events, you get choreography you can revisit on anniversaries, holidays, or during your honeymoon- especially since our routines are created uniquely for you. They’ll provide memories that last well beyond the dance floor.

21/07/2025

To DJ or not to DJ? That is the question!

Making Entertainment Magic on a Realistic Budget:

When planning a wedding or birthday party, the budget chat always comes up. And let’s be honest- entertainment is one of those things that can make or break your event. But with costs piling up fast, many people find themselves asking:
“Do we really need a DJ?”

If you’re dreaming of a packed dance floor, unforgettable moments, and a night that truly feels like a celebration, but you don’t have a mega-budget- here’s the good news: you’ve got options. And we’d love to introduce you to one that hits all the right notes.

The Cost of a Traditional DJ and/ or a Live Band:

Hiring a full-time professional DJ can be a big chunk of your party budget. And while there are brilliant DJs out there, not all offer the kind of personal, fun and interactive vibe you might be hoping for- especially for intimate weddings or relaxed birthday dos. If you’re also wanting a live band, (our honest, if you have all the money and space in the world recommendation) this also comes at a great cost (we paid £2000 for our band alone) and requires some organisation and co-ordination between all vendors involved.

That’s where we come in.

What If You Could Have More Than a DJ?

At West Hen Events, we’ve created a Singing & Disco Package that combines the energy of live performance with the party-starting power of a disco. It’s designed especially for those planning a celebration full of love, joy and dancing, but without a sky-high budget.

Here’s what you get:
🎤 A live vocalist to kick off the night with popular hits and heartfelt moments
💃 A hosted disco with party bangers, sing-alongs, and a friendly, fun atmosphere
🎶 A smooth flow of entertainment without any awkward gaps
🙋‍♀️ A warm, interactive host who brings guests out of their shells
🪩The option to add on party dance instruction and glow sticks for your guests to use

It’s more than just music- it’s vibes.

Why It Works So Well for Weddings & Birthdays:

Our singing and disco combo is perfect for those in-between guest lists and venues. Maybe you don’t need a full band or nightclub DJ setup, but you do want something that feels special. This package fills the space with good energy, keeps things flowing, and turns your dance floor into a magnet- all while staying kind to your budget.

Still on the Fence?

Think about this: your guests won’t remember the price tag. But they will remember how the room felt when everyone was up dancing and singing. The big smiles. The spontaneous dance-offs. The ‘one more song!’ at the end of the night.

So… to DJ or not to DJ?

Why not go for something even better?
Let’s make your wedding or birthday the party everyone talks about- for all the right reasons.

Now taking bookings for 2026!
Send us a message to check availability and see if the Singing & Disco package is right for your event.

19/06/2025

7 Time-Saving Tips for Planning a Brilliant Hen or Stag Do in Northumberland.

Let’s face it- planning a hen or stag do can be a lot of pressure. You want to create an amazing weekend that everyone will love, but you’ve also got a job, a life, and a million other things going on.

If you’re planning a celebration in beautiful Northumberland, you’re already off to a great start. With its stunning coastline, cosy countryside escapes, and unique local experiences, it’s the perfect location for a relaxed yet unforgettable celebration.

Here are 7 practical, time-saving tips to help you pull off a brilliant hen or stag do without burning out.

1. Choose a Base and Stick to It

Northumberland is full of picturesque towns and scenic rural spots; but travelling all over can eat into your fun time. Pick one base (e.g., Alnwick, Morpeth, or a countryside cottage near the coast) and plan most of your activities around it. You’ll cut down on transport hassle and maximise chill or party time.

2. Keep the Group Size Manageable

While it’s tempting to invite everyone, large groups are harder to coordinate. Aim for a number that feels fun and lively but still allows for easy decision-making: typically 8 to 15 people. For bigger groups, set expectations early and keep communication clear.

3. Plan One or Two Key Activities

You don’t need to fill every hour with an event. Instead, choose one or two standout experiences that suit the group. Northumberland offers everything from castle tours and spa days to beach walks and afternoon teas.

Looking for something with energy? Local companies like West Hen Events offer fun group activities such as themed dance parties, singing & disco entertainment, and dance classes: perfect for a high-energy afternoon or evening. We can come to you at your chosen location or we’ll even source and hire a location on your behalf.

4. Create a Simple, Shared Itinerary

Once you’ve locked in your plans, pop everything into one shared document or app. Include addresses, booking times, what to bring, and dress codes. This saves you answering the same questions ten times, and lets everyone relax knowing the plan’s in place.

Bonus tip: Leave plenty of buffer time between activities. You’ll thank yourself later.

5. Delegate Where You Can

You don’t have to do it all. Ask one friend to be in charge of food orders, another to organise games, and someone else to bring decorations or party favours. Most people are happy to help- they just need a task. Ask any companies you are hiring if they can help with anything, for example props- although they enhance the vibes and asthetics of your activities, these are a pain to travel with! We can provide props upon request, as well as help you out with transport booking, and recommendations for other local activities, and the order of your day. We’re sure other companies will help in their own ways which aren’t necessarily advertised too- just ask! (We have a saying in the North East- SHY BAIRNS GET NOWT!)

6. Don’t Overthink the Extras

It’s easy to fall down the Pinterest rabbit hole, but you don’t need matching everything or elaborate party games. Focus on a few thoughtful touches: a playlist, a welcome drink, or a small keepsake, and let the rest be about quality time and good company.

7. Use Local Suppliers Who Know Their Stuff

Planning from a distance? Let the locals help. From caterers to entertainers, there are some brilliant small businesses in Northumberland who can make things simple. Companies like West Hen Events know the area well and can help you create a fun, seamless experience- especially if you’re short on time or inspiration.

Final Thought

A hen or stag do doesn’t have to be perfect- it just needs to feel authentic, easy, and full of good vibes. With a bit of early planning and a little help from local experts, you can create a weekend that’s stress-free, unforgettable, and full of fun.

Here’s to dancing, laughing, and making memories in magical Northumberland. 🥂

20/05/2025

Your First Dance: Entering the Dance Floor and Stepping Into Forever

There’s something magical about the moment you step onto the dance floor for your first dance as a married couple. Time seems to slow, the noise of the room fades, and for just a few minutes, it’s as if the world shrinks down to just the two of you. As the music begins and you walk hand in hand into the spotlight, visualise all the planning and all the nerves melting away. Don't think about who’s watching, or whether your steps are perfect. You’re simply there-with your partner, your person, your new spouse. Soak in this one, quiet moment together.

This isn’t just a dance. It’s a symbol. A soft, beautiful pause between the ceremony and the celebration. It’s a chance to hold each other close, to breathe, and to feel the joy of what you’ve just promised one another. We always suggest our couples don't over choreograph or 'set' the very beginning of their dance for two reasons; 1. We want you to fully live and breathe this special moment, and 2. We don't want you to get into a panic if you don't 'get to your place' in time, because the MC enthusiastically talked you both up a little too long, or Uncle Jim has had too much beer and didn't take the hint and make space for your entrance. (Though fingers crossed your vendors and family know better haha).

The song you choose won’t be just background music—it will become the soundtrack to a memory you’ll carry with you for life. Whether it’s a slow sway or a rehearsed routine, what matters most is how it feels. Maybe you’ll laugh through the nerves. Maybe you’ll tear up halfway through. Maybe you’ll forget every move you practiced and just hold each other like no one else is in the room. And that's the magic of it. It's YOURS.

It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be real. Because when you look back on your wedding day, you’ll remember that moment—not for the steps, but for the emotion. The way your heart beat in time with the music. The way your partner looked at you. The way, for those few minutes, nothing else mattered. Now, we've never had a couple forget all their moves yet, as we leave you well prepared- but IF that happened; those dance lessons were extra time you and your partner made out purely for yourselves as a couple, which we all too often forget to do as life seems to get in the way.

So when the music starts and all eyes are on you, don’t worry about performing. Just take in that beautiful moment, walking hand in hand towards your first dance, and towards the rest of your lives together. Because this moment is yours—and it’s one you’ll never forget.

07/04/2025

Dance Parties in Northumberland for Stag and Hen Dos

Planning a stag or hen do in Northumberland? If you’re looking for a fun and energetic way to celebrate, a dance party could be the perfect activity. Whether you’re into line dancing, salsa, or a full-on Beyoncé-style routine, dance classes offer a brilliant way to let loose, bond with your group, and create lasting memories.

So, why choose a dance party? Dance parties are a fantastic way to kick-start your stag or hen weekend. They bring everyone together, no matter their skill level, (or preference in regards to alcohol!), and provide plenty of laughs along the way. Plus, they’re a great alternative to traditional daytime activities like spa trips or adventure sports.

Here’s why they’re a hit:
• No Experience Needed – Professional instructors will guide you, so even the most rhythmically challenged guests can get involved.
• Personalized Themes – From ‘80s throwbacks to Wicked the Musical-inspired sessions, you can tailor the experience to suit the group.
• Great for Photos & Videos – Imagine capturing your whole group nailing a choreographed routine—perfect for Instagram and lasting memories!
• Flashmob opportunity- use the choreography you learned at the dance party to surprise other wedding guests!

The Best Dance Party Themes for Stag & Hen Dos (in our humble opinion):

1. Beyoncé / Divas

Unleash your inner Queen Bee with a high-energy routine inspired by Beyoncé, Rihanna, or Madonna. Expect plenty of sass, hair flicks, and attitude!

2. Dirty Dancing

Nobody puts your hen or stag in the corner! Learn iconic moves from the movie and maybe even attempt the lift.

3. Country & Line Dancing

For groups who's VIP loves themselves a bit of T Swift, Dolly P or Shania. Bring along your best cowboy or girl hats, get those boots on and learn a few fabulous line dancing tracks- we guarantee you'll have fun! Yeehaw!

4. Grease or Mamma Mia! Themed Dance

Sing along to the classics while learning moves inspired by these all-time favorite musicals. Flares suggested but not compulsory!

5. Burlesque & Cabaret

Perfect for those who want something a little cheeky, burlesque classes focus on confidence, posture, and classic showgirl moves. We'll even bring the feathers!

Tips for a Successful Dance Party and Final Thoughts:
• Dress for the occasion – Wear comfortable clothes or go all out with themed outfits!
• Stay hydrated – Dancing is a workout, so keep water (and maybe some prosecco) on hand.
• Film the final routine – You’ll want to relive the moment, and it makes for an epic pre-wedding video.
• Pair it with other activities – Why not follow up with a cocktail-making class or bottomless brunch? You could even just have us source you a studio for your dance party in a Newcastle City Centre location, come all dressed up in your theme of choice, then head out on the town straight after!

A dance party is a guaranteed way to bring laughter, energy, and unforgettable moments to any stag or hen do in Northumberland. Whether you’re after a sassy burlesque routine or a full-on hip-hop showdown, there’s something for everyone. So grab your squad, hit the dance floor, and get ready to bust a move!

Looking to book a dance party for your upcoming celebration? Get in touch and let us know if we're missing your favourite theme! We love to create new, bespoke themes and choreography 🙂

26/02/2025

Unforgettable Evening Entertainment Ideas for your Big Day in the North East

Your wedding day is probably the biggest party and most memorable day of your life, and ensuring your guests have an incredible time is almost as important as saying "I do." Evening entertainment plays a key role in keeping the energy high, keeping your venue full until the last minute and creating lasting memories. If you're tying the knot in North East England, you’re in luck—this region offers many unique entertainment options to make your wedding night unforgettable.

1. Live Bands and DJs
A high-energy band or an experienced DJ can set the perfect mood for your evening celebrations. In our opinion, nothing beats live entertainment- pre set playlists just can’t read a room and keep a dance floor full like an experienced entertainer. Whether you love indie, pop, rock, or jazz, Northumberland is home to fantastic local bands and DJs who can tailor their setlist to your preferences. Look for experienced wedding performers who know how to keep the dance floor packed all night long. (We believe in getting your money’s worth from your venue and every vendor- well utilised space please!). Some of our faves (as well as US for a live singer with a disco set up) are:
The Disco Co: https://www.thediscoco.com
Ami Vaziri: https://www.instagram.com/amivaziri?igsh=a3JyOGM4dXhidm9v
Your School Disco: https://www.alivenetwork.com/bandpage.asp?bandname=Your%20School%20Disco

2. Your First Dance/ Wedding Party Choreography/ Flashmobs
For a truly interactive and engaging experience, consider involving your wedding party in some dance floor fun alongside or right after your first dance as a married couple- it’s not for everyone, but a fun routine involving bridesmaids and groomsmen, a ‘flash mob’ of sorts, or a relaxed, less traditional first dance which captures your unique humour and story as a couple can be a great way to make yourself and everyone else feel relaxed, and encourage those ‘hard to get up guests’ onto the floor. Having something that isn’t attempting to be a serious or professional dance, but is choreographed to suit you as an individual really takes pressure off and helps you feel prepared and relaxed about what can be a nerve racking moment. Tell us what music, styles, and vibe you would like and we’ll get cracking creating something perfect for you: https://westhendanceparties.co.uk/contact-us/

3. Fireworks Display/ Sparklers
Nothing says celebration quite like a breathtaking fireworks display. Many North East venues offer fireworks packages, allowing you to end the night with a spectacular show. If your venue permits it, a fireworks display over the stunning landscapes of the region will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Too much for you? Opt for some simple and classy sparklers- if having a photographer present after dark, some absolutely stunning images can be captured. (Also some laughs can be had when people spell out naughty words with the sparklers and surprise you with the pictures later… but we didn’t suggest or do that to anyone, of course😉).

4. Magicians and Illusionists
For a touch of mystery and wonder, a professional magician can keep guests entertained during the evening. Whether performing close-up magic at tables or putting on a full-scale show, a skilled illusionist can add an element of surprise that will delight your wedding guests. As well as the evening, this idea also works well in the day; in between the ceremony and wedding breakfast for example. A talented magician will also use their tricks as a way of bringing different parties and groups who may not know each other well together, and help break the ice. Our Northumberland based recommendations:
Paul Lytton: https://www.northeastmagician.co.uk
Paul Innes Magician & Entertainer: https://www.paulinnesmagicman.com/gallery/

5. Silent Disco
A silent disco is a fantastic option if you have a venue with noise restrictions or if you want to offer a unique party experience. Guests can switch between different music channels on wireless headphones, ensuring there’s something for everyone to dance to. It’s an interactive and amusing way to keep the celebrations going into the night.

6. Interactive Food and Drink Stations
Keep your guests entertained and well-fed with fun food and drink experiences. Options such as cocktail-making stations, gourmet street food trucks, and DIY dessert bars add an interactive element to your evening while satisfying late-night cravings.

7. Photo Booth and Selfie Stations
Capture hilarious and heartwarming memories with a themed photo booth or a stylish selfie station. Many companies in the North East offer vintage, rustic, or modern setups complete with props, instant prints, and digital downloads. We personally used and recommend AG Events, as they not only provided this for our West Hen Wedding, but also offered us a package which including uplighting for our venue, as well as a DJ and cold sparks (which really elevated our first dance and made the pics and videos of it incredible). Find them here:
AG Events https://www.agevents.co.uk

8. Comedy Acts, Drag Acts or Impersonators
Inject some humor into your wedding with a stand-up comedian, Drag Artist, or a celebrity impersonator. Whether it's a surprise act between the meal and dancing or a full-on comedy performance, this is a surefire way to get everyone laughing and engaged. It’s extra fun if it’s kept as a surprise for your guests! We have seen ‘Amandah Hart’ in action at a friend’s wedding and highly recommend!
Amandah Hart
https://www.facebook.com/share/19NpeB1HGa/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Final Thoughts:
Whatever style of entertainment you choose, the key to a successful wedding evening is making sure it reflects your personality as a couple, and having a good number of guests to size of the dance floor/ venue ratio. If you have 20 guests in a 200 capacity space, it will feel bare no matter how great the entertainers are, so do consider this when choosing venues! North East England has no shortage of incredible entertainment options, from live music to interactive experiences. With the right choices, you can be sure your wedding night is an unforgettable celebration for both you and your guests.

22/01/2025

How to best capture the moment of your first dance- helping your photographer/ videographer to help you!

Tell your photographer that you have a set routine and offer to show them any specific lifts/ dips moments you’d like them to catch. Usually you'll have some kind of consultation call with the photographer about how the day will run (they often know better than you, having done many many weddings), and this is the perfect chance to communicate with them what you'll be doing in your first dance. In our experience, they're often excited to hear there will be a set routine and moves, as it makes more exciting work and images for them than an awkward shuffle!

It’s standard that your photographer will take you both away from guests for couple pics. (This usually happens between the ceremony and before the wedding breakfast, when venues are turning rooms around and getting meals ready- if you're running your day that way). This is a great opportunity to play your first song on your phone, and get moments of the dance shot in a cool, different location- bonus that the extra practice in your actual outfits helps calm your nerves and make any small adjustments you want to make you move comfortably too!

Do you happen to be having cold sparks as part of your events package or disco? Dry ice on your dance floor? Special lighting, cute backgrounds or letters you've hired etc? Inform any vendors of special moments in your dance/ first song music that they could have those sparks sparking or stuff well placed for that wow factor. This will really elevate your dance for guest watching, and your images/ footage. Catch those vendors on the day, or chat to them before about where you'd like things placed for this, and again, clue up the videographer and photographer about where you plan to be for certain moments, and what effects they can be capturing. (Of course they're often going to see fabulous things they won't, but hey, we pay a lot of money for these services, why not get the best out of them?).

Finally, do not worry if you forget something or anything 'goes wrong' in the moment- remember nobody knows this dance except from you (and us- but we aren't judging). Trust that you’ve already done the work and you’ve got this- remember to enjoy the moment, dancing is never all that serious, and look your partner in the eyes and love them like you do! The crucial sparkle to a fabulous first dance pic!

Remember we offer a brilliantly effective and easy to follow 'First Dance Package', and send out monthly tips completely free of charge to those on our mailing list- simply email us at info@westhendanceparties.co.uk and let us know you'd like our advice 🙂

24/12/2024

HEELS V FLATS FOR YOUR FIRST DANCE & WEDDING DAY

We always say it boils down to what reflects your personality, but often people who do feel comfy wearing heels don’t often do too much dancing, and especially partner dancing in them.

A great option we've seen many brides find successful (and more comfortable) is to start the day in heels, do their first dance, and change into flats at some point as they head into the evening celebration where more dancing and meandering around happens!

This way, you get the benefit of your dress looking it's finest (most are cut in a way that look great with heels), you've likely had the bulk of your professional photos taken in your special shoes, and you've done your first dance, but also don't get sore feet from an entire day. (Wedding days are glorious, but let's not lie- they're long!)

Whether you decide on flats, heels, or a combination of both, a professional dancer can certainly help you with tips, tricks and techniques on how to use and work your feet and legs to look, and most importantly feel comfortable in your choice of footwear and style of dance. Another element to consider is physical safety! Even those who wear heels for a quick pose and wander around may not have the ankle strength to pull off sophisticated moves without risk of injury to themselves (or even the shoe haha). The truth is, a lot of it is about 'placement' of the weight in the feet and ankles.

Having said all that, there is absolutely no reason to fear, and this is not a mammoth task! 'Practice makes perfectly prepared goodness' and all it takes to get your feet and legs ready for dancing in heels is a) some short and simple preparatory exercises, and b) practice dancing in your actual intended shoes (or as close to them in style as possible).

We have created a video of some extremely simple, achievable and easy to follow foot exercises you can access for completely free- simply email us at info@westhendanceparties.co.uk or head over to our instagram and check out our latest reel where the exercises feature. https://www.instagram.com/p/DD9jPGmox5J/

20/11/2024

TOP 5 TIPS TO GO FROM 'FIRST DANCE STRESS' TO 'FIRST DANCE YES!'

When speaking to couples on their consultation call about their first dance, I have realised that people are often overwhelmed with all the wedding planning tasks that need done, and in regards to their dance, the pressure of 'looking good' or 'not being able to dance'. Over time I've realised I end up sharing the following tips with everyone, so though it would be useful to 'put pen to paper' as it were and share them for the world to see... here goes!

1. Choose music that you love, but that also has a nice tempo dance to. We suggest around 100bpm- this means to dance ‘slow’ feels natural, but for those more confident or wanting to add variety, moving at a ’double time’ pace is very achievable. (You can google the BPM of your chosen song and give it a go- you’ll see what we mean).

2. Keep it simple. Unless you’re a professional ballroom dancer, no one is expecting you to look like one! This is simply about you two having your first dance as a married couple. Everyone in the room (hopefully) loves you! Avoid the ‘awkward 2 minute sway’ by throwing in simple but effective things. Favourite go to’s are a ‘dip’, an easy spin out- spin in, stepping across one another, and a good old ‘stand and present’ the bride. You can then awkwardly sway between and no one will notice! Haha!

3. Struggle to learn a lot of steps? No problem- do a verse and chorus, then gesture to your loved ones to get up and join you on the dance floor! (You can even pre- ask people to join when you do this, or put your bridesmaids and groomsmen to work by telling them when in your song you want this to happen, and getting them to get everyone up).

4. See this as an opportunity to do a fun activity as an engaged couple- dates if you will! not as a scary thing you have to do. Life can be so busy in this modern 24 hour fast paced society, and even while wedding planning we can forget to show our loved ones attention. Just give all your attention to your partner in your dance, and enjoy the moment <3

5. Hire someone to help! We have lots of experience in first dances and make sure to make you comfortable and confident in what you’re doing, no matter what your ability or experience is. We have an eye for what moves are going to look good on you within a few minutes of practice, have so many tips to help, and will send you tutorial videos and be on the other end of the phone to support you on this mission for a lovely first dance!