With our easy to follow 10 Free Wedding Dance Lessons Online, we will help you create your perfect wedding dance. And of course, we will teach you how to dance it.
And, yes! This online dance course is suitable for absolute beginners. Hopefully this is a skill that will serve you for the rest of your lives!
A couple of questions we are often asked:
- How long will it take? Well, that's a hard one to answer. It depends on your aptitude, the song you chose, your dedication, your desired outcome - are you looking for just tips and tricks or are you looking for amaze your friends and family - the time you can spend practicing together etc... Couples learn in different ways. This being said, this program is designed to help you get the best any time you have! If you can, give it 4 to 6 weeks.
- What do we need? The list of tools you need is short: yourselves, space, music and a screen to look at the videos below.
So let's get ready for your wedding day with our virtual dance lessons. You will get confident in no time.
Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to the wedding dance.
Many couples feel the pressure to perform a meaningful choreographed dance that will impress their guests.
Paying for dance lessons or hiring a professional dance instructor or choreographer can be expensive, intimidating and time consuming.
I am not denying that hiring a professional dance instructor, or even better a choreographer is the optimum solution. After all, that's how I make my living!
Unfortunately that's not always a practical solution. Attending regular dance classes or lessons takes time and commitment. Nowadays, with our busy lifestyles it can also be impractical and inconvenient.
On the other hand, getting private lessons from a choreographer can be expensive. As we know, the budget for a wedding can get out of hand very quickly!
However there is another solution, a compromise that might suit many out there.
The DIY Wedding Choreography.
Skipping the dance studio in favour of an online course which will help you learn to dance from home as many upsides: lowering the cost (especially if it's free!), learning at your own pace, learning in your own time etc...
With a structured plan, the help of free online learning, and a positive attitude, it is possible to create your own bespoke choreographed dance. It will be a memorable and enjoyable experience for you and your partner. Knowing that you created your own choreography will definitely add to that special moment on the floor.
This is what this article is all about, helping you create your own First Dance Choreography in the comfort of your home. It's not as hard as you may think.
It's a step by step process. So start dancing now and practice regularly.
On a quick note, this is not a ballroom dance. No Tango, Waltz, Rumba, Foxtrot or Cha Cha. While these are all beautiful styles, they are not suitable beginners. If you want to learn these styles, you will need a lot of time.
I propose to highlight each step for you and guide you through the process.
Wedding Dance Online: What Can Be Achieved
Here is a demonstration of what is achievable with our 10 free wedding dance lessons online. That's without any experience but with a little time and a thirst to learn to dance.
Of course, you would only need to learn a few (3 would be good) of the dance patterns demonstrated here. Remember your choreography should be only 2 min 30 sec long.
The trick is to keep your step as simple as possible. We also want learn to look as natural as possible.
In this video, I use what we call a "marching" step. It's the most basic dance step you can use. We simply mark the beat with each step, while staying relaxed and engaging the hips. But more about that below.
The point here is that if we make the step so simple that we don't have to think about it. This way we give ourselves the opportunity to focus on what will impress: the dance moves.
With our wedding first dance lessons, even beginners can create an impressive routine.
By mastering just a few basic dance patterns and keeping your steps simple, you can confidently perform a 2-minute, 30-second choreography.
In our video, we showcase the "marching" step, the most fundamental dance step. It will allow you to mark the beat while emphasising relaxed hip movements.
By simplifying your steps, you free up mental space to focus on perfecting the dance moves that will truly impress your guests.
Join us on your dance journey! Let our tutorials guide you towards a memorable wedding dance that reflects your unique style and love story.
Now let's start! Here are your dance teachers, Anthony and Paula from First Dance Academy
Free Online Wedding Dance Lessons - The Basics
First thing first, as this course is designed for absolute beginners, you will need to learn the basics of partner dancing:
- Frame, Posture and Hold.
- Leading and Following.
- The steps.
Then we can implement and practice them by learning very simple moves:
- The Basket
- The Hammerlock
1- Frame, Posture and Hold
Now let's start with the dance instructions. Posture, frame, and hold are essential elements in partner dancing that contribute to the overall appearance and quality of the dance. Here's a brief overview of each concept:
- Posture: Good posture is crucial in partner dancing, as it enables the dancers to move smoothly and gracefully across the dance floor. Proper posture involves standing up straight with the shoulders relaxed, the chest lifted, and the hips aligned with the feet. Dancers should avoid slouching, leaning forward or back, or letting their head drop.
- Frame: Frame refers to the way that the partners hold themselves and each other during the dance. In partner dancing, the frame is created by the arms, shoulders, and upper body. The partners should maintain a firm and steady frame, with the arms slightly extended and the elbows slightly bent. The frame should be maintained throughout the dance, even when the partners are turning or spinning.
- Hold: Hold refers to the way that the partners hold each other during the dance. In partner dancing, there are different types of holds depending on the dance style, but the most common one is the closed hold. In a closed hold, the leader's right hand holds the follower's left hand, while the leader's left hand rests on the follower's back, just below the shoulder blade. The follower's right hand rests on the leader's left shoulder. The hold should be gentle but firm, with the partners maintaining a slight pressure towards each other.
- Hand Hold: There are several hand holds and I'lll talk about two of them in the video below. The 2nd hold is particularly important for the style of dancing we are going to use. If you find that a move is difficult or awkward, may be a little painful, the first thing to check is your hand hold.
Overall, posture, frame, and hold are crucial elements in partner dancing that contribute to the elegance and fluidity of the dance. When done correctly, these elements help the partners to move together as a cohesive unit, creating a beautiful and enjoyable dance performance.
2- Leading and Following
Leading and following skills are important concepts that you need to master to dance with your partner. One partner takes the role of the leader, while the other partner takes the role of the follower. This is the only way you'll be able to dance together.
The leader is responsible for initiating the movements and transitions in the dance, while the follower responds to these signals and executes the movements in a coordinated manner. The leader sets the pace, direction, and style of the dance, while the follower follows along and adjusts to the leader's movements.
Leading in dance requires the leader to have a clear idea of the sequence of movements they want to perform, and the ability to communicate these movements effectively to the follower through the right tension in the frame, body language, and cues. The leader needs to be confident, decisive, and sensitive to the follower's movements, and should adjust their movements to accommodate the follower's skill level and preferences.
Following in dance requires the follower to be attentive, responsive, and adaptable to the leader's movements. The follower needs to have a good sense of timing and rhythm, and should be able to read the leader's signals and cues accurately. The follower also needs to maintain good posture, balance, and technique to execute the movements correctly.
Leading and following in dance require both partners to have good communication skills, trust, and mutual respect. The leader should not force the follower to perform movements that are beyond their skill level or comfort zone, while the follower should not resist or second-guess the leader's movements. Instead, both partners should work together as a team to create a harmonious and enjoyable dance experience.
In summary, leading and following are crucial aspects of partner dancing that involve clear communication, mutual respect, and teamwork between the partners. When done correctly, leading and following can create a beautiful and fluid dance performance that showcases the skills and chemistry of both partners.
The practical skill you need to learn now is understanding the importance of holding the right tension in the frame. Try the exercise below.
3- The Steps
When it comes to the dance steps, our philosophy is to keep them as simple as possible!
There are a couple of reasons for this:
- The more complex the step, the more difficult the dance...Obvious but overlooked some many times.
- Your guests are not looking at your feet, they are looking at you. When someone looks at you they look mostly at your face and when you are dancing, your upper body.
So, with this in mine we will teach you the most simple step. This way you can focus on what will look good and impress: the moves, patterns and styling.
Now let's learn 2 simple moves. At this point you should use these moves to practice everything that you learned up to now.
Don't rush this step, it's VERY important.
If you can't relax, be fluid and elegant when you dance these two moves then you need more practice!
4- The Basket
Here is your first move. Time your time with it and explore the different variances.
It's a great move to test your connection, rhythm and coordination. You will find it used in patterns later on.
It's also a very good "linking" move if you want to link to patterns together or if you just draw a blank and can't remember what to do next!
5- The Hammerlock
The Hammerlock is another handy move and it can lead to interesting patterns. Don't be afraid to explore the possibilities that it offers.
One word of caution though, the Hammerlock can be painful if it's not led properly. We explain this in detail in the video.
Followers, don't settle for pain! There shouldn't be any pain when you are dancing. If you feel any discomfort, in particular in your shoulder, inform your leader straight away.
6- Brushes
Brushes don't really qualify as moves. They are more of a styling exercise.
We like them for two reasons:
- They look good!
- They are a great way to practice holding the correct tension in your frames. It's important to always pay attention to the tension in your frames. In the excitement of learning new moves and more complex patterns, it's easy to forget your basics! Remember the basics are the most important elements of a partnered dance.
7- Basics - Wedding Dance - Demo
Here is a simple demonstration of what we have learned so far. As you can see, even with just these basics, you can dance. It's not very impressive yet but it's a frame on which we can now build upon.
It's also good to know that, once you master these basics, you can dance with confidence. So even if you were to draw a blank on the day and forget your choreography, you can still dance and look a hundred times better than if you had not prepared! The foundation you've established will provide you with the poise and rhythm to move gracefully on the dance floor.
As you continue to practice and refine your dance skills, you'll be amazed at how quickly you can progress and create more impressive choreographies. Dancing is a journey, and every step you take, whether simple or intricate, adds to your skill and artistry. So embrace the process, enjoy the dance, and let your passion for movement shine through.
First Dance Lessons Online - First Dance Patterns
So, let's define a pattern again as it's a concept that often leads to confusion.
A pattern is simply a series of moves. An example of a very simple pattern for example, would be The Basket + The Hammerlock + Out of Hammerlock.
So a pattern is arbitrary. It's a vehicle that instructors use to teach. It gives structure to both the lesson and the choreography. I like to use the analogy of a lego set. Each lego piece is a move and by putting these moves together you create a pattern. So a move is rigid but a pattern is fluid.
Now that you know that, you know that you can change, adapt, deconstruct and reconstruct any of the patterns below. You can create a performance that suits your song, your personality, etc...
So it's now time to learn some impressive moves to wow your guests!
1- The Rope
Here comes your first pattern for you to dance at home!
The beginning of this pattern should feel familiar as it starts like the Basket. It's a great pattern to start a choreography as it will ease you into it.
You should feel a "flow" when you dance this pattern. Be careful not to look robotic. You will probably get the jist of it quickly enough but it's likely that you will need a good bit of practice to make look it seamless and elegant.
Practice, practice, practice...
2- Lean on Me
Another move that we were very keen to include in our tutorial is "Lean on Me". It's a move with a little more punch!
The "Lean on Me" pattern is a mesmerising and dramatic step that captivates audiences with its impressive illusion of support and balance. Despite its striking appearance, this move is surprisingly accessible to novice dancers, making it a fantastic addition to any dance routine.
The key to the "Lean on Me" move's success is the careful balance of weight and maintaining a strong connection between the dancers. It's essential for both dancers to communicate and synchronise their movements, ensuring a seamless and captivating performance.
What makes the "Lean on Me" move so impressive is its visual impact. The illusion of support and trust between the dancers is not only dramatic but also emotionally resonant. The simplicity of the steps makes it accessible to beginner dancers, allowing them to focus on the emotional connection and storytelling aspect of the dance.
In conclusion, the "Lean on Me" dance move is a striking and dramatic addition to any dance routine. Its impressive appearance, combined with its beginner-friendly execution, makes it a memorable and crowd-pleasing choice for brides and grooms looking to make a lasting impact on the floor.
3- Picture Perfect
The "Picture Perfect" dance move is an iconic finale that adds an extra touch of magic to wedding dance choreographies. Traditionally employed to conclude the bride and groom's first dance, this move is designed to create a stunning visual moment that allows photographers to capture those perfect shots.
As the couple gracefully dances their way through their chosen song, the "Picture Perfect" move serves as the grand finale. It involves a carefully choreographed series of steps that culminate in a dramatic dip. This dip is more prolonged than usual, allowing the couple to hold the position for a few precious seconds.
During this captivating moment, the bride and groom lean into each other, with the groom extending his arm to support the bride as she arches gracefully backward. The couple's faces are often close, allowing for intimate, loving gazes and smiles that convey their deep connection.
The "Picture Perfect" dip freeze not only showcases the couple's love and unity but also provides a prime opportunity for photographers to capture the emotion, joy, and elegance of the moment. It's a snapshot-worthy pose that will adorn wedding albums for generations to come, reminding the couple of the beauty and romance of their special day.
In conclusion, the "Picture Perfect" dance move is the ultimate showstopper. Its elegant, extended dip at the end allows for picture-perfect moments that freeze the love and joy of the newlyweds in time, ensuring that these memories are cherished forever in stunning photographs.
So, as promised, these were your 10 Free Wedding Dance Lessons Online.
But of course, we couldn't let you go without a bonus one! So here it is:
Free Online Tutorial - Entrance and Exit
Planning the entrance and exit of a first wedding dance is a crucial aspect of creating a memorable and meaningful moment on your special day. These moments can be some of the most cherished and photographed parts of your wedding, so careful consideration and planning are essential. Here's why:
- Setting the Tone: The entrance of your first dance sets the tone for the entire performance. Whether you want it to be romantic, fun, or dramatic, a well-thought-out entrance can convey your emotions and the theme of your wedding. It's your opportunity to make a grand entrance as a newly married couple.
Smooth Transition: Planning the exit in advance ensures a smooth transition to the next part of your celebration. After the emotional and engaging dance, you don't want awkwardly lingering on the dance floor. A well-executed exit allows you to seamlessly move on to other parts of the reception.
Photography and Videography: Your wedding photographer and videographer will capture these moments forever. By planning the entrance and exit, you can help them get the best shots, ensuring that you have beautiful memories to look back on. It's a chance to create visually stunning and meaningful photographs and videos.
Guest Engagement: An impressive entrance and exit can captivate your guests and make your first dance a memorable experience for everyone in attendance. It's not just about the couple; it's also about creating a moment that your guests will remember and talk about.
Stress Reduction: Planning your entrance and exit in advance reduces stress on the big day. You'll know exactly where to stand, where to look, and what steps to take. This can help you feel more relaxed and confident during your performance.
Personalisation: Your first dance is an opportunity to express your unique personalities and love story. Planning the entrance and exit allows you to incorporate personal touches, such as surprise moves, sentimental gestures, or even themed costumes, to make it truly yours.
Incorporating these elements into can elevate the entire experience. It ensures that your first dance is not just a routine but a special and unforgettable moment that you, your spouse, and your guests will cherish forever. So, take the time to plan your entrance and exit, and let your love shine on the dance floor.
First Dance Online - Conclusion
In conclusion, creating your own DIY choreographed dance can be a fun and rewarding learning experience with our 10 Free Wedding Dance Lessons Online.
We hope our first dance tutorial and its video lessons allowed you to create your perfect first dance in the comfort of your own home. With a bit of perseverance and a lot of fun, you should now have a unique wedding dance to impress your wedding guests.
We also hope that this resource helped make your wedding costs a little lighter by skipping on private dance classes and saved you money on privates lessons.
With a structured plan, the help of online resources, and a positive attitude, you can create a dance routine that reflects your personalities and makes your special day even more memorable.
So, don't be afraid to take on the challenge. Put your new skills to the test and get creative with your dance moves! You will feel confident in no time.
If you want to create a more complex and unique first dance, check out our Online Wedding Dance Tutorial. It holds 26 online dance lessons, with several patterns in each. You will even get a 7-Day free trial and a 30 Day Money Back Guarantee! There are plenty of reviews from happy couples to check out there too.
For more information on this topic, or learn all the tips about wedding planning, join the thousands of couples that visit our Wedding Dance Blog.
Wishing you a beautiful wedding ceremony, lots of dancing at your wedding and a long happy life together as husband and wife. If you need more help, please don't hesitate to contact us!
