Wedding wins | Let’s dance
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Ever wondered how you’re going to get through your first dance as newlyweds without tripping one another up?
Felicity Drever of Learn 2 Wedding Dance and Edinburgh Dance School reveals all to Claire Muir…
I’m sure I’m not alone when I cringe a little at the slow shuffle my new husband and I did at our wedding as we eagerly awaited the part of our song where the music picked up, knowing the bridal party would join in and take the heat off us.
With that in mind, it’s no surprise when dance teacher Felicity Drever tells me lots of her clients say learning to dance together is some of the best money they’ve spent on their wedding!
“They’re transported to another world for an hour, flirting with one another and learning a unique dance that’ll give them confidence to get on the dance floor and wow their guests,” she explains.
“You learn how to move together – and how to look like you like each other!”
What happens during a lesson?
Felicity assures couples that as soon as they arrive, she takes away the stress of getting up to dance by… yep, getting up to dance!
“I learn about the couple as we start dancing and listening to their chosen song.
“I take into consideration everything from how restrictive their outfits are to how many sides guests are watching from.
“I show couples how to move in their outfits, and brides learn how to work their dress.
“When you’re dancing, I’m a third pair of eyes that can tell you exactly what your dance needs.
“And usually less is more.”
Felicity choreographs as she goes, which some couples can’t quite believe.
“No two clients are the same so I need us to all be together to see what works.
“I don’t stick with particular styles of dance.
“Instead, I look at the couple’s connection.
“Do they move fast or slow together?
“Then I speed up or slow down the steps to make them fit the lyrics.”
Usually by the end of the first lesson Felicity and a couple will have choreographed the dance and she’ll film their performance so they can refer to it when practising at home.
Felicity recommends squeezing in some practice little and often and reports that even visualising dancing beautifully while enjoying time together can manifest a perfect performance.
After three to five lessons, she reckons you’ll be able to hold each other properly and get around without standing on one another’s feet – but bear in mind that the more lessons to-be-weds book, the more value for money you get.
Not only that, though, you’re welcome to bring your bridal party along for no additional cost!
So, if you’re like me and hoping your besties will join you on the floor, this is an excellent opportunity for them to boost their confidence and brush up on their skills – plus have loads of fun!
@rosiemcgee
3 top first dance songs
- Murder on the Dancefloor – Sophie Ellis-Bextor – “Great for those who want an upbeat choice, especially with its recent revamp – a definite crowd-pleaser.”
- First Day of My Life – Bright Eyes – “A couple came with this recently and I loved how jolly it made me feel. Choreographing it was an absolute joy.”
- Until I found You – Stephen Sanchez – “This is the most traditional waltz rhythm for a first dance. Effirtless, relaxed and all about smooth moves.”
