The first dance is one of the most common wedding traditions in the United States, but too many couples settle for the same routine everyone’s seen a thousand times. Instead, why not think outside the box? Below, we present some exciting ways to spice up the first dance at your wedding and make it one for the ages.
1. Use a Spotlight
Don’t just steal the proverbial spotlight on your wedding day — steal the actual spotlight. When you and your partner get out on the dance floor, having a spotlight illuminate the special moment will ensure that all eyes are on you. It’s an easy, inexpensive way to make your first dance unforgettable.
With a spotlight, you have several different options. You can play around with various colors, patterns, and lighting techniques. Feel free to get creative!
2. Roll in the Fog
Fog machines are an excellent option for adding ambiance and uniqueness to your first dance. You can rent or purchase a fog machine and roll it in during the wedding reception or beforehand. Once the dance floor fills with fog, it’ll look like you’re floating on the clouds.
3. Blow Bubbles
Are you looking for a fun way to make the first dance at your wedding more interesting? Consider having the guests blow bubbles. This not only gives everyone else something to do instead of watching you two dance, but it also adds an element of playfulness to the special moment.
Bubbles work well if you have a tight budget. You can buy bubble wands for all the guests or simply buy a bubble machine. Either way, you’ll make the dance feel magical and lead to some spectacular photos.
4. Shower Confetti
Nothing says it’s time to party like a confetti shower. Confetti is a popular choice to celebrate any significant occasion, and many soon-to-be-married couples choose it for their first dance because it’s fun, easy to set up, and easy to clean up. You can also use various types of confetti to match your wedding theme:
- Glittering confetti: This type of confetti will add a little sparkle to your dance. If you have a more upbeat dance song, glittering wedding confetti may be your number one option.
- White ribboned paper: This is probably your best bet if you want to play it safe. White ribboned paper confetti adds sophistication and goes well with a classic slow dance.
- Colored tissue paper: Do you want a more casual vibe? Consider using cut-up colored tissue paper or even shredded newspaper as confetti. Your wedding can be as unique as you are.
5. Light Sparklers or Indoor Fireworks
Have you always dreamed of walking down the aisle to your favorite song and a fountain of sparklers? Now that you’ve found your soulmate, it’s time to make those dreams come true. Sparklers and indoor fireworks are a fantastic way to create that once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Fireworks or sparklers can add an extra pop to your two-step. They won’t last more than a couple of minutes and create the perfect atmosphere during your dance. Just make sure everyone who gets a sparkler knows how to hold it safely!
6. Play Live Music
Listening to your favorite band in the car is nothing compared to attending one of their live concerts. The same holds true at a wedding. Pre-recorded music is great, but live music is ten times better.
With live music, you can sway to your first dance song in style. You could even have someone write an original song just for the occasion to make it that much more memorable.
7. Release Balloons
Releasing balloons onto the dance floor is a popular choice for the first dance at your wedding. It’s a fun way to incorporate a little extra color and playfulness into the event. It’s also a budget-friendly way to capture the moment.
When it comes to releasing balloons, you have a couple of options. You could have the balloons on the floor while you and your partner dance. Or, you could drop them on the final beat for a grand finale.
8. Include the Guests
As you plan the perfect wedding day and think through all the details, you may wonder what the guests will do during the first dance. After all, a wedding isn’t just for the bride and groom—it’s a time for family and friends to celebrate. So, what about the guests?
Including the guests is one way to make your first dance even more special. For example, you can have them surround you while you glide across the dance floor or join in after a few measures. You have multiple options, so don’t feel tied to any one idea.
9. Do a Choreographed Routine
First dances can be challenging and stressful for many couples, especially ones who aren’t dancers. You might worry about keeping with the beat, turning in the correct direction, and not stepping on your partner’s toes. Even if you two have danced a lot already, the first dance comes with added pressure.
You should always prepare for momentous occasions, and the first dance at your wedding is no exception. Many couples choreograph their routine to ensure that everything goes right and put their minds at ease. With a well-choreographed dance, you can soak up the spotlight and give your guests a first dance they’ll never forget.
10. Go Outside
Another brilliant first dance idea is to take it outside. Changing the scenery can add pizzazz to your routine and make it extra special. Plus, your wedding photographer can get some epic shots if you dance in the sunset or under a night sky full of stars.
Get Answers to All Your First Dance and Wedding Day Questions
With a bit of creativity, you can make the first dance at your wedding one to remember. At City Hall Weddings, we offer the resources you need to plan the perfect wedding and ensure that you avoid common wedding mistakes. Browse our blog articles or contact us today to get answers to all your wedding questions!