Top Tips for Practising Your First Dance
Your wedding first dance is one of the most magical moments of your big day — a time for you and your partner to relax, connect, and show off those moves you’ve been working on. Whether you’ve taken first dance lessons with Simply First Dance or you’re practising at home, here are some top tips to help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to shine on the dance floor.
1. Practise in the Right Shoes
If you’re planning to wear heels on your wedding day, it’s really important to practise your first dance in heels too. Dancing in heels feels very different from dancing in trainers or flats as your balance, posture and movement will all change slightly. Getting used to that feeling early will help you feel steady and graceful when the big moment arrives.
2. Think About Your Dress
Your wedding dress will make a huge difference to how you move. Try to imitate the style of your dress while practising.
If your gown is big and poofy, try attaching a sleeping bag or duvet around you with a belt (trust us, it works) to get used to the space it takes up.
If it’s a fishtail or figure-hugging dress, practise with your legs a little restricted so you know how far you can move and turn comfortably.
The goal is to make sure you feel confident dancing in whatever you’ll be wearing on the day so there are no surprises.
3. Work on Your Concentration Face
This one’s a biggie. When you’re thinking about your steps, it’s easy to slip into what we call the concentration face.
Instead, practise looking calm, happy and in love — just like you’ll feel on the day. Try smiling at your partner, breathing deeply, and remembering that this is your moment together.
You want your guests to see joy and connection, not worry or tension.
4. Don’t Take It Too Seriously
If there’s one thing to remember about your first dance, it’s this: have fun.
Your dance doesn’t need to be perfect — it’s all about creating a magical memory and enjoying every second together. Laugh at the little mistakes, hold each other close, and soak in the moment.
The more fun you have, the more your guests will enjoy watching you.
Bonus Tip: Bring the Fun to Your Hen Do
If you’re planning your hen party, why not book one of our hen do dance workshops? It’s a great way to get everyone moving, laughing, and celebrating before the big day — and it might even inspire a few moves for your wedding dance.
Final Thoughts
Practising your first dance should be exciting, not stressful. With the right preparation (and the right shoes), you’ll walk onto the dance floor feeling confident, connected, and ready to enjoy every moment.
If you’d like some expert guidance, Simply First Dance offers first dance lessons across the UK, as well as wedding dance classes for couples at selected venues. Let’s make your first dance a memory you’ll treasure forever.