How to Find Wedding Dance Lessons to Prep for Your Big Moment

The first dance is among the most memorable moments of the entire wedding reception. To help ease nerves and ensure a more polished routine, some couples may opt to take wedding dance lessons leading up to the big day. Curious to learn more about wedding dance lessons and if they're worth adding to your budget? Keep reading to find out more information—plus tips to help you get grooving in (almost) no time.

In this article:

• When to Start Dance Lessons
• Average Cost for Wedding Dance Lessons
• What to Look for in Wedding Dance Lessons
• How to Find Wedding Dance Lessons
• How to Coordinate With Your Dance Instructor After Booking

When to Start Dance Lessons

"Deciding when to start dance lessons for your wedding can depend on a variety of factors, such as your dance experience, the complexity of the dance you want to learn and your availability for lessons," explains Jaclyn Watson of Jaclyn Watson Events, who is based in Vermont. However, she—as well as several other experts we spoke to—recommends starting dance lessons anywhere from four to six months before your big day. This gives you plenty of time to practice your routine before the big day; that way, you can feel as comfortable and confident as possible.

Average Cost for Wedding Dance Lessons

The average cost for wedding dance lessons will vary depending on the instructor, their style and, of course, your location. According to Jacqueline Vizcaino, owner of Tinted Events Design and Planning in Atlanta, Georgia, wedding dance lessons can range anywhere from $60 to $250 per hour. Those on a budget may opt to take group classes, which are typically more affordable; however, they do offer less individualized attention.

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What to Look for in Wedding Dance Lessons

"A couple definitely wants to be prepared, feel comfortable and look natural when they do their first dance at their wedding in front of their closest family and friends," explains choreographer and professional dancer Jacqueline Hinton, who is based in Los Angeles, CA. So, whether you're looking at dance lessons for your first dance—or perhaps a father-daughter or mother-son dance—here are some key factors to consider before booking your dance lessons.

Private vs. Group Dance Lessons

"When deciding between private and group lessons, it's important to consider the level of instruction offered," explains Vizcaino. So, take some time to determine if you want to sign up for private or group dance lessons. Keep in mind that private classes are often tailored to your specific skill level. Per the pro, private dance lessons offer an "excellent way for couples to develop their technique more quickly." Group classes, on the other hand, may provide basic instruction for beginners. Vizcaino also notes that these classes "allow couples to hone their skills in a fun and social setting." Plus, they tend to be more wallet-friendly.

Dance Style

"When looking for wedding dance lessons, you definitely want to check out the style of dance," says Hinton. For example, "You don't want to go to a line dance class if you want to do a waltz." A quick Google search can help narrow down your options. Just be sure to call the studio to double-check they can help you achieve your dancing dreams.

Instructor Experience

It goes without saying, but Watson recommends looking for an instructor "who has experience teaching wedding dance lessons and is qualified to teach the style of dance you are interested in learning." She continues, "You may want to check the instructor's credentials, such as their training and certification, as well as their experience working with beginners."

How to Find Wedding Dance Lessons

Finding wedding dance lessons near you is easier than ever. With The Knot Marketplace, couples can effortlessly sort through different instructors and studios based on location. Plus, they can even contact the instructor directly to learn more. You can also ask friends and family who have taken dance lessons for recommendations and your other wedding vendors (especially your music pros) may have suggestions, too!

How to Coordinate With Your Dance Instructor After Booking

"Once you've booked your lessons, there are a few steps you can take to ensure everything goes according to plan," says Vizcaino. Below, we've outlined tips and tricks from experts to help you coordinate with your dance instructor after you've booked lessons.

Communicate your goals.

As with anything else, communication is key! That's why Watson recommends letting your instructor know your goals while informing them of any specific songs or routines you have in mind. Additionally, you should make them aware of any concerns or challenges you may have: After all, your instructor is there to help!

Schedule lessons in advance.

Watson advises scheduling your lessons in advance to ensure they fit into your schedule and that you have enough time to practice. Hinton echoes these sentiments, adding that setting a standing time each week may be a good idea. Additionally, she says, "Once you get closer to your wedding, maybe schedule extra rehearsals so you know you are truly prepared."

Practice between lessons.

Practice makes perfect! With this in mind, Watson advises practicing regularly between lessons. This will help "reinforce what you have learned and build your confidence."

Ask questions.

Per Watson, "Don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for clarification during your lessons." What's more, she says, doing so can help you better understand and retain the information.