Most couples spend weeks choosing their first dance song, but much less time on when the dance should actually happen. The timing affects your energy, your photos and how quickly your guests hit the dance floor. Here are the most popular options and how to choose between them.
Option 1: Straight after your entrance
Some couples walk in and go straight into their first dance. Everyone is already standing and paying attention, the room is fresh, and you get your nerves out of the way early so you can relax for the rest of the night. Your photographer also gets the shot while the light and the room are at their best. The downside is that it can be harder to roll straight into the party, because dinner comes next.
Option 2: Between courses
Dancing between the entrée and main breaks up a long sit-down meal and gives guests something to watch. It works well for formal receptions, but check with your venue and caterer that the kitchen timing allows it.
Option 3: After the speeches
This is the most popular choice. Dinner is done, the speeches have built the emotion, and your first dance becomes the natural turning point from formalities to party. Go straight from the final note of your first dance into an upbeat song and invite guests to join you. Our post on getting guests onto the dance floor explains how.
Option 4: After the cake cutting
Cutting the cake and then going into your first dance keeps all the key moments together, which makes life easy for your photographer and videographer. It also means older guests who leave early still see the main events.
What your MC needs to know
Whatever you choose, give your MC a written run sheet with times, names and cues. Tell them who should be ready on the dance floor, whether there is a parent dance or bridal party dance afterwards, and whether you have any effects such as cold sparks or dancing on the clouds that need to be timed. A good MC keeps everything moving and fills any gaps so the night never stalls.
Our sister business Let's Marry provides professional wedding MCs, so your timeline, announcements and first dance can be planned as one.
Don't forget the extras
Think about where the other dances go too. A father-daughter or mother-son dance often follows the first dance, and a bridal party dance can bring everyone onto the floor. Each one is a special moment in its own right, and we can choreograph every one of them to your chosen songs.
Plan the dance and the timing together
Once you know when your dance happens, we can tailor your lessons to it, for example an upbeat, high-energy routine if it leads into the party, or a slower, more emotional one after the speeches. Book private wedding dance lessons at our studio, midway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and see our guide on when to start your lessons.