For years, the first dance has consisted of the newlyweds awkwardly shuffling around the dance floor to Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You”, the groom repeatedly stepping on the bride’s hem as the guests stand around and peer at the couple intently. However, these days it doesn’t have to be like that. Loads of couples are choosing something different for their first dance to stand out from the crowd and have a good time dancing. Just search “first dance” on YouTube to see the hundreds of results from couples who have broken away from the blushing ballad brigade. These videos can also be great inspiration if you are finding it hard to think of some ideas.

One of the most popular ways to mix things up is to choreograph the “surprise dance”. You start off as any other couple would- with the slow ballad, the close hug as you scuffle around in a circle on the dance floor. Then suddenly the music stops and leaps into something completely different. Cue the couple launching into their choreographed routine. Some people feel that this is overdone, but if it’s what you want then go right ahead!

Here are some of my top ideas for a unique first dance. Time to get your groove on!

Rock n Roll
Perfect for those fun loving, lively newlyweds. Jump, jive and twist to a classic 1950s rock n roll tune. There are so many forms of Rock n Roll and Jive that you can find a form that is perfect for you. It’s such an informal dance that you can even make up your own routine- there are no set steps to stick to. With lifts, jumps and twirls this is a hugely dramatic dance that makes for some amazing photos.
Suggested songs: “Great Balls of Fire”- Jerry Lee Lewis “All Shook Up”- Elvis Presley “Long Tall Sally”- Little Richard

Waltz
The traditional and most romantic of all dances, this is ideal for those couples who are planning a lovely fairytale wedding. A long, flowing dress would look stunning as it floats around the dance floor and it is such a beautiful dance- perfectly elegant and sophisticated. This dance is guaranteed to make your guests remember your day for years to come.
Suggested songs: “Cheek to Cheek”- Fred Astaire “Kissing You”- Des’ree “Over the Rainbow”- Eva Cassidy

Street
Street, or hip hop, dancing is becoming a hugely popular dance form for fun and exercise, so it only makes sense for hip, trendy couples to use this style for the first dance. An strong, urban (and rather sexy!) style is ideal for those couples who fancy a real workout in the weeks leading up to their wedding. With just one lesson a week for a few months, think how fit and toned you would both get!
Suggested songs: “Sexy Back” – Justin Timberlake “1, 2 Step”- Ciara “Low”- Flo Rida

Whatever style you choose for your first dance, make sure you put the effort in. You don’t want to forget your moves halfway through the big dance, or shuffling through a half-hearted form. Dance teachers can be expensive, but you only need to hire them for a few hours to learn the choreography and pick up some tips. You can then practice and perfect your routine at home.

A great way to get fit in the run up to your wedding and a fun way to personalize your day, get your dance shoes on and hit the dance floor!