A couple’s first dance as husband and wife is certainly
memorable; perhaps even more so if you were born with two left
feet. But don’t let this minor shortcoming hinder your
enthusiasm. Jill Brighton, the director of Central Pennsylvania
Dance Workshop, says more and more couples are taking lessons
to prepare for their first dance and to be better able to impress
their guests.
“A lot of people feel better knowing they have a clue and are
not going to just shuffle their feet back and forth,” says
Brighton. Not only can the lessons build a couple’s confidence,
but they are also a fun and relaxing way to spend time together
in the midst of all the hectic wedding planning.
Although couples generally tend to stick with traditional dances
such as the fox trot or the waltz, Brighton says that some
couples add swing variations for a more contemporary touch.
Dance lessons
do not have to be something solely reserved for the bride and
groom, however. Brighton says that it is not uncommon for the
parents of the betrothed to partake in them as well. With this
in mind, she suggests inviting the whole wedding party to join
the dance classes. The lessons can even serve as a bridal party
gift in lieu of the usual presents.
Private lessons are available for more in depth and personalized
attention. With private lessons, couples are encouraged to
bring a recording of their wedding song to perfect each movement.
There
are group lessons available as well, and they are usually less
expensive.
Lessons are also available through the Penn State Ballroom
Dance Club www.clubs.psu.edu/up/ballroomdance and through the
Central
Pennsylvania Ballroom Dancers Association www.CPBDA.net. – SCB
