Those who want to learn how to slow dance at your wedding should consider the four most types of wedding slow dance. Slow dancing should not be intimidating as long as you know how to practice and the movements you must do.
We will also share tips to avoid feeling awkward slow dancing, especially if it’s the first dance at your wedding. And for guests, you can read how to dance at a wedding reception.
Wedding Dance 101: How To Slow Dance At Your Wedding
Classic slow wedding dance
- The most common wedding first dance is the classic slow dance; this is similar to the sway, which makes it very romantic for newlyweds
- You can also describe the classic wedding slow dance as a nightclub two-step, and you can freely include dips, spins, and even lifts to entertain the guests
- To do the classic slow wedding dance, the groom will lead as he holds the bride’s right hand and their left hands on each other’s waist or shoulder
- Decide on your first dance music with a slow rhythm to know how you’ll move
- You should also practice your footwork or modify this dance into a ballroom two-step with swimming movements
Dancing the sway
- You want your wedding slow dance to feel comfortable, and it’s also a way to spend time with your partner and cherish the moment as newlyweds
- If you wish to a simple slow dancing on your wedding day or you have no time to practice, do the sway
- From the name itself, you will swing with your partner back and forth
- It’s romantic because you have your arms around each other
- You can select a meaningful love song for the sway and make it as short as your comfortable
Waltz dancing
- For couples who want to dance and wow the wedding guests, then your first slow dance should be a waltz
- The first dance at your wedding can also be a way to show your appreciation for the guests
- Allocate time to choreograph a waltz or find a choreographer who can teach you
- You can also select a slow dance first then incorporate turning and box steps on the right tempo and rhythm
Foxtrot style
- Slow dancing doesn’t have to be limited to the sway or nightclub two-step; you can also do the foxtrot for the wedding first dance
- Your first dance can be something lively even tho it’s considered a slow dance
- Consider a medium tempo foxtrot, or find music with a beat that suits the vibe of a slow romantic dance
- A foxtrot is also a good option for couples who’ll have live music for their slow wedding dance
- The steps you must learn if you want to dance the foxtrot include the feather step and the weave; you can also mimic walking movements around the floor and combine slow steps with quick steps
How Do You Make Slow Dancing Not Awkward?
Slow dancing for your wedding first dance doesn’t have to feel awkward. Instead, you can remain confident and enjoy the moment with your spouse, even the guests watching, using these tips.
- Plan the song you’ll dance to for your first dance
- Try to dance to the beat of your chosen song with just your partner to get you comfortable with movement
- Practice in front of the mirror, even by yourself
- To avoid feeling conscious, think of the moments that you practiced slow dancing with your partner
- If you know someone who can help you practice dancing, such as a friend or sibling, have them lead and guide you
- Learn basic slow dance moves such as swaying back and forth with arms around each other, twirling, deeps, and footwork so you won’t accidentally step on your partner
- Practice the slow dance with your wedding attire and shoes to add confidence when you dance at the reception
- Reassure each other and enjoy the moment rather than thinking that the slow dance is a performance
How Do I Slow Down My Wedding Dance?
After selecting a beat with the proper slow tempo, you can create steps for your wedding slow dance by knowing what to do with your arms and feet.
Slow dancing arms
Have each other in an embrace and sway back and forth. For a more natural position, the bride can also put her arms on the groom’s shoulder and the groom’s hands on her lower back.
To avoid feeling nervous, you can rest your head on your partner’s shoulder and close your eyes. Looking at each other can also help to keep you from being conscious in front of the guests.
Slow dancing feet
Place one foot between your partner’s feet and the other outside to keep you from stepping on them. This is useful for slow dancing where the couple is close.
However, try not to overthink your foot positions, as focusing on them will lead you to lose your rhythm. When practicing, glance at your feet to know where to step and move.
Know who dances with who at a wedding, so you can practice with your partner weeks or months before the wedding.
Conclusion
And that’s it! You just learned how to slow dance at your wedding by choosing between the classic slow dance, sway, waltz, and foxtrot.
It’s also vital to find a song with a rhythm you can easily follow. And finally, don’t forget to practice with your partner while wearing your wedding outfits to gain confidence.