Make Your Wedding Dance Memorable

mtcountrydance
Apr 25
3 min read

Updated: Jul 15

Planning your big day? As seasoned dancers who’ve worked dozens (if not hundreds) of weddings, we’ve experienced everything from the good to the great, and even the awkward-turned-hilarious. If you're dreaming of a magical wedding where the dance floor is alive with laughter, twirls, and sweet memories, you’re in the right place.

Here are our top tips to ensure your wedding dance moments go off without a hitch:

1. The Dress: Dance-Test It!

Your wedding dress might be stunning, but is it danceable? Here's what to consider:

Security: Can you spin, dip, and twirl without fear of a wardrobe malfunction? Strapless gowns can shift if not tailored properly. Test it with movement!
Breathability: Those corset-style bodices can take your breath away, literally. If you’re gasping during a slow waltz, you’ll be exhausted when swing dancing kicks in.
Beading & Underarm Chafing: Ouch—some gowns have embellishments that rub like sandpaper when you start moving.
Length & Freedom: Is the dress short enough to keep your feet free? If it’s long, does it bustle securely? Stepping on the dress is the most common dance issue we see at weddings.
Practice: Before the big day, dance with your partner in a dress of similar length and shape. You’ll get a feel for what works and what to avoid.

2. The Venue: Make Space for Joy

Before you book the perfect view or dreamy barn, ask: Is there room to dance?

Dance Floor Size: Plan for 60–70% of your guests to hit the dance floor at some point. If you’re expecting 100 guests, your floor should comfortably fit at least 60 movers and shakers.
Portable Dance Floors: Not all portable dance floors are created equal. Some are slick, shift underfoot, or don’t hold up well. Test them out if possible.
Level Ground: If you're outdoors, ensure the floor is set up on level ground. Sloped dance floors lead to tripped feet and toppled dips.

3. The DJ: Share Your Vision

Your DJ isn’t just there to press play—they’re the vibe curator of your night.

Must-Play & Do-Not-Play Lists: Clear communication leads to fewer cringe moments and more dance floor magic.
Your Vision: Share your desired tone, story, and vibe. Whether you want honky-tonk, Top 40, or classic love songs, ensure your DJ knows the full picture.
Creative Freedom: Let your DJ know where they can have fun and where you want to maintain control. A little freedom goes a long way in keeping the night flowing naturally.

4. Special Dances: Keep It Light

Whether it’s your first dance or a sweet moment with Dad or Mom, don’t overthink it.

Skip the Choreography (Unless You’re Pros): Unless you and your partner are confident dancers, ditch the pressure of strict routines. Focus on connection, not perfection.
High-Impact Moves: Learn a couple of "wow" moves—like a sweet dip or spin—that photograph beautifully and add flair to the moment.
Cut the Song: You do not have to dance the full 3:57 of a slow ballad. 60–90 seconds is plenty to create a special moment without the awkward "how do we wrap this up?" ending.

5. Engage Your Guests: Create Dance Floor Moments

Your guests are a huge part of your wedding experience. Here are ways to get them involved:

Group Dances: Consider including group dances like the cha-cha slide or the electric slide. They are fun and encourage everyone to join in.
Photo Opportunities: Designate spots on the dance floor for photo ops. Capture the laughter and joy of your guests having fun.
Prepare your guests: Hosting a welcome party or rehearsal dinner, consider including lessons for your guests so that they are ready to rock!

6. Rehearsal: The Importance of Practice

Don’t underestimate the importance of rehearsal.

Dance Floor Walkthrough: Schedule time to walk through the physical space with your partner. This helps you visualize your dances within the layout.
Dance Lessons: Consider scheduling a few dance lessons leading up to your wedding. They can boost your confidence and make your dances smoother.

Enjoy It!

Your wedding is all about love, laughter, and shared moments—especially on the dance floor. If you want to feel confident, have fun, and bring your guests along for the ride, a little preparation can make a huge difference.

And hey, if you’re in Bozeman and want to brush up on your moves or learn a memorable first dance, we’ve got your back. Let’s dance!

Learn more about our wedding: https://www.mtcountrydance.com/weddings