The First Dance

After big Happy New Years parties that several of our bands played, we go from "Jingle Bells" and Auld Lang Syne" to "Trumpet Voluntary" and "Mendelssohn's Wedding March." Our first Bridal Faire of 2010 yesterday at the Ritz Carlton was a huge success.  Hundreds of brides and many grooms, as well. A lot of them saving for a big wedding in 2011. Regardless of the economy, they seem to feel that waiting a few months or even a year guarantees a dream wedding that they will treasure for years to come.

With a few thousand weddings under my belt, both as a bandleader and music coordinator, I have witnessed First Dances that are charming, entertaining, humorous, lively, elegant, happy, poignant, passionate, tender, all of the above, and unfortunately, some that are downright embarrassing. So that you won't fall into that last category, keep these in mind when planning your First Dance:

1. Dance to what you consider, "Our Song," or a song and dance style that you both enjoy. Guests love watching you gaze into each others eyes or having an intimate conversation (that they can't hear!) while on the dance floor.

2. Choreographers are great--and I know several good ones--but only if you both have the desire and the time to practice. Make sure you are both committed to a fun, planned dance.

3. If you love to dance and it is a highlight of your Reception and you know your dance will be fun (for you and your guests), you can select a song that is 3'00" or 3.30" minutes max.  If not, keep it under two minutes.

4.  Make sure your dance band can play the exact version of the song you are practicing--the length, introduction, number of choruses, tempo and style should all be the same.  If you are unsure, consider having your band play a CD.

5. In 2008 and 2009, the trend was: start with a very slow tempo and then break into a fast Swing, Rock or Salsa.  This is a fun idea and guests love it--I think the trend will continue.

Please let me know if you have any questions, would like suggestions for a First Dance or have a subject about music and entertainment for weddings or other events that you would like me to address.

Happy New Year!
Marianne