It was an amazing time choreographing a First Dance for Erin & Scott wedding, which took place recently in May. When Erin asked me about the dance back in August 2018, I knew I had to be a part of their special day. It is always a pleasure to create a magical moment for a wedding couple. With every wedding dance I do, I find something so enchanting about the connection the couple has. Learning to dance together is about coordination, working together, and trust, among other things. Not only are you trusting the person you love to not step on your feet (haha), but you are trusting them to take good care of you in the moment. To cherish that face-to-face time, to be present, to devote time to practicing together, to building a memory that you will share always. That is just what this couple did during each rehearsal, and I find that to be one of the most special things you can give to someone; your time and attention. Busy with work, wedding planning (which is a full-time job itself), and beautiful little baby, this couple set the time aside to do something together, dance. I always am in awe watching how couples get closer through dance, and how it becomes such a special addition to their big day.
Erin and Scott had a clear vision of what they wanted even before starting rehearsals. This dance was going to be surprise to their family and friends. They were both overjoyed to do this dance for their wedding day. I even had to keep the secret from a mutual friend who was also in their wedding party, which made it exciting for me as well. I always find it so fun to work with a couple who has so much passion for each other. Not ever having been dancers, or so they say, they were so dedicated to learning the movement and coming together to make it happen. As a dance teacher, my goal was to give them movement they both enjoyed and had fun doing. I was open to suggestions and they were open to the choreography I offered, which made it easier to come up with something that was their style. The songs they chose really meant something to them, which brought it all more to life. The first song they chose “Who I am with you” by Chris Young had them starting off with a sweet and meaningful slow dance. It was also a lead-in to trick their guests into thinking they were just doing a simple first dance. Little did they know, the music would switch completely! With a sound of a record scratch, the next song cut in, “Dashboard Light” by Meatloaf, with swing-inspired choreography with partner dancing and holding hands while they spun around each other. The fun continued with the song “I’m Gonna Be (500 miles)” by The Proclaimers. This was Scott’s time to show off his dance moves to his lovely Erin, getting down on one knee, and a chance for the guests to sing along to this fun song. Just when you thought it was over, the music changed to “Can’t Stop the Feeling” by Justin Timberlake. With a body wave and hands in the air, the couples faces really lit up during this dance. A little footwork, shimming and sliding their way across the floor went a long way as “it’s the magic, it’s the magic, it’s the magic” built up to the end of the dance. Ending with a kiss, the couple really ended the dance with a bang! The dance showcased who they were and brought so much fun and joy to their wedding celebration!
In watching the video of them dancing at their wedding, it really brings it all full circle for me. Two people who love each other, having fun on the dance floor surrounded by family and friends cheering them on; that’s what its all about on a wedding day. Their guests were surprised and you can tell they were so into the dance. This is why I love what I do. There’s nothing more satisfying to me as a teacher then watching a moment of pure bliss and enjoyment from dancing and having a great time. I especially love this about first dances. It really captures the joy of the wedding. This is something they will cherish for years to come and a memory for their wedding guests to share.
Congratulations Erin & Scott, and may you continue to always have fun together!