How To Prepare For Your First Dance



Wedding days are a whirlwind of emotion—joyful, heartwarming, and just the right amount of nerve-wracking. As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing countless beautiful moments, but one of the most touching and memorable parts of any celebration is the first dance. It’s intimate, emotional, and uniquely you.

Oddly enough, while so much planning goes into the dress, the venue, and the vows, the first dance often gets overlooked until the last minute. That’s why I always recommend couples take the time to thoughtfully prepare. Even if you believe you have two left feet, your first dance is a moment you—and your guests—will cherish forever.

Here are my top tips to help you get ready for your first dance, from a photographer who’s seen it all through the lens:

1. Decide What Kind of Dance You Want

Before you dive into choreography, figure out what kind of dance feels right for both of you. Do you envision a romantic, slow sway with a heartfelt song? Or are you dreaming of a high-energy, choreographed routine that’ll bring down the house and maybe even go viral?

Whatever you choose, make sure it aligns with your personalities and comfort level. Your first dance should be a reflection of your unique love story—quirks and all.

2. Hire a Dance Instructor Who Gets You

If you’re new to dancing—or just want to look polished—partnering with a dance instructor can be a game-changer. A good instructor will not only teach you the steps but also help you build chemistry and confidence on the dance floor.

Search for instructors who specialize in wedding dances, and read reviews or ask for recommendations. Look for someone who understands your goals and makes you feel at ease. If you're not sure where to start, wedding Facebook groups and sites like The Knot often have local listings and referrals.

3. Start Practicing at Least 3 Months in Advance

The timeline depends on your chosen dance style. A simple waltz or slow foxtrot might only need a few months of weekly lessons. But if you're diving into more complex territory—like swing, salsa, or Argentine tango—you’ll want to give yourself six months to a year, minimum.

Pro tip: Practice in the same shoes and similar clothing you plan to wear for your wedding to get a feel for how you'll move on the big day. Muscle memory is your best friend, especially when nerves kick in!

4. Plan Your Dance Around Your Wedding Attire

This one’s huge—and often overlooked. As someone who has photographed hundreds of dances, I can tell you that wardrobe malfunctions or restricted movement can derail even the most well-rehearsed routine.

If your dress has a long train or tons of layers, consider bustling it or choosing a simpler dress for the reception. Grooms should also be mindful of stiff jackets or slippery shoes. And always, always do a full rehearsal in your attire—what feels great standing still may not work mid-dip or spin.

5. Choose the Right Shoes for the Floor You’ll Be Dancing On

Footwear is key to a successful dance. Not all wedding shoes are made for dancing—those gorgeous heels might look stunning but feel like torture after five minutes on the floor.

Ballroom dance shoes offer great flexibility and the right amount of grip for wood floors. If you're dancing on a unique surface (like a barn floor, tiled patio, or grass), opt for closed-toe shoes with stable soles. Avoid rubber soles unless you want to trip over your own feet!

Ask your instructor for recommendations based on your venue's flooring, and consider bringing a backup pair just in case.

6. Most Importantly—Have Fun!

Trust me, I’ve captured it all—the flawless routines and the wonderfully imperfect, joy-filled moments when couples just let loose and laugh through it. Your first dance doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be you.

Your guests won’t remember whether you nailed the dip or missed a step. They’ll remember how you looked at each other, how you laughed, and how you held each other close. That’s the magic—and that’s what I love to capture.

Whether your first dance is elegant and refined or spontaneous and silly, Adrian Tamblin Photography will be there to document every moment. If you have a unique dance plan or want to coordinate photo timing for specific moments (like a lift or dip), feel free to share those details in advance.

Whatever your wedding dance turns out to be, Adrian Tamblin Photography will be eager to snap lots of photos and/or video throughout your first dance. If you have specific information about your wedding dance that you would like to share with us, give us a call at 707-322-2233 or adrian@adriantamblin.com. We look forward to hearing about your wedding dance plans.