Photo by Colin Coleman
Lillian Freeman
Owner
Allegro Dance Studios
What options do couples have when planning for their first dance?
Bridal couples have the opportunity to choose from learning a few dance moves to a fully choreographed dance. Dance lessons are booked four at a time for a half hour each in length. After the four lessons, private lessons are booked one at a time, depending on how much practice is needed.
How should a couple embark on choosing the “perfect” song for their dance?
When choosing music, if the future [couple has] their heart set on a certain song, I say “Go for it!” I usually recommend something classic with a good beat like Frank Sinatra’s “The Way You Look Tonight,” “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” or Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love with You.”
What is your advice for couples that are intimidated by the idea of a public dance or that are lacking in dance skills?
I recommend that a couple come in for a lesson and learn enough moves to be able to look semi-polished and comfortable on the dance floor. I also recommend that they shorten the length of their dance. A wedding dance should be two to three minutes. If they’re feeling anxious, they can shorten the length of the time that they are dancing.
Dancing is an art form that should be shared with everyone. [It] brings you and your partner closer together in a relaxed, fun environment. Dance is one of the best activities you can do to strengthen your bond in a really healthy way, and it is good for you. You shouldn’t worry about who is watching.
Where in the wedding planning timeline should the first dance come into play?
The wedding dance should be scheduled with the rest of the event details. Lessons are booked five to eight months before the wedding date, and lessons usually begin two to four months before the wedding. The private lessons are 30 to 40 minutes in length. Couples are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes, but many brides bring their bridal shoes to the practice sessions. Videoing the learned dance steps is highly recommended for further practice at home.
What recent trends have you noticed in wedding choreography?
Couples who want to blow the roof off the joint and really knock it out of the park like to mix in a fun hip-hop combination. After they pick their slow sentimental song, I mix in popular hip-hop mixes and teach them a hip-hop combination. I’ve had great success with this approach, and the wedding attendees love it!
Is it ever OK to just skip a first dance altogether?
Dance joins couples together. Over the last eighteen years, I’ve taught many couples, and dance brings joy. Why skip it? In a marriage, you need all the help you can get.
How can a couple make their dance extra memorable?
To make the dance extra memorable, I have seen many brides dance with their fathers, and the grooms with their moms. Flower girls and ring bearers, blended families and the entire wedding party join in! It’s a spectacular way to start any reception!
What is the most rewarding part about helping couples with their wedding choreography?
One of the most magical [times] of your life is the first dance at your wedding—a moment in time you’ll always remember. The most rewarding thing about teaching couples their wedding dance is that I get to see them learn to dance with each other, laugh and be in love. There’s something very special about the month to three months before they say their vows, and I get to be part of that time in their lives. As a dance teacher, this has brought profound joy to my life, and I’m very grateful to have this be a part of a career I love.
Allegro Dance Studios | 4030 Chestnut St., Emmaus610.509.1313 | allegrodancestudiosllc.com
