Special Wedding Reception Dances

There are a few key moments in your wedding day; seeing your fiance for the first time, the exchange of vows, the kiss and your first dance. There are also some special moments for your parents too; like escorting you down the aisle and sharing a special dance at your wedding reception. Here are some tips for making those moments special.

Practice Dancing. A well practiced dance can build confidence for your wedding reception dances. Many couples take dance lessons and some couples even take dance lessons with their parents. This could be a great activity to help with the blending of your families – and dad won’t be so nervous sharing that special moment with you.

Song Selection. The songs you choose for your first dance and other special wedding dances will determine the choreography of the dance, as well as the tone of the room. If you and your father are hopeless sentimentals, a slow song would be perfect. But if you enjoy a more humorous relationship, it is perfectly acceptable to pick a faster paced song. The same holds true for your first dance. (For more on wedding reception music, click here.)

Special Circumstances. Unfortunately, circumstances often prevent the bride or groom from sharing a special dance with their parent. In these cases, it’s best to discuss what each of you are comfortable doing. Some options include:

• The bride or groom dances with their respective parent without mention of the dance that will not take place.
• The bride or groom dances with a sibling, special friend, family member or new in-law.
• Neither of you dances with a parent.

If you have a close relationship with both a natural and step-parent you also have a few options to consider. Regardless of the option you choose, you should discuss your plan in advance so that no one is caught off guard at your wedding reception.

• Begin the dance with your natural or step-parent and have your wedding DJ introduce the other to cut in mid-dance. This option works best when there is no animosity between parents.
• Share an individual dance with both your natural and step parent.
• If family dynamics make the decision too emotionally charged, you might consider eliminating this dance from your wedding reception.

The usual order for special wedding dances is as follows: couple’s first dance, father and daughter, and mother and son. If your bridal party will share a dance with you, it typically takes place before the dances with parents. (For more on wedding reception timelines, click here.)

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