Choosing your first dance style sets the tone for your wedding day and is a memorable way to express your personality. It’s a special tradition that reflects a couple and their journey ahead. No matter your dance experience, every couple can have a stress-free first dance that honors their partnership.
Many couples choose a choreographed routine to make their first dance that much more special. Here, we’ll explore popular first dance styles, their difficulty levels, and the best music to pair with each. With our help, you’ll be gliding across the floor with ease — and having fun too!
Slow Dance
There’s a reason slow dances are popular for first dances — they’re romantic, intimate, and easy. Instead of memorizing choreography, just hold your partner close as you sway to the music.
Slow dances are perfect for couples who want to stay relaxed and enjoy the moment. If you want to elevate your slow dance, consider adding dance holds. Take your partner’s right hand in yours, while putting your left hand on their shoulder or waist. Time your side steps to the music, and add pivots, spins, or lifts for flair. That’s it!
Tango
Playful and expressive, the Tango is a captivating dance style with more complex movements. After just a couple of lessons, you’ll have your boleos and giros down!
Tango is characterized by sharp, passionate movements that demand precision. It’s ideal for active and energetic couples who enjoy a traditional form of dance. Argentine Tango is typically slower and more dramatic, while faster-paced interpretations, like Milonga, are lively and syncopated.
No matter the style, Tango is best paired with classically instrumental music. Allow the rhythm and melodies to provide the backdrop for the dance’s emotional depth.
Salsa or Bachata
It’s hard to conjure up a sexier dance than Salsa or Bachata. For the fun-loving couple who enjoys a fast-paced challenge, look no further than these two dances. Both are danced in close proximity, incorporating dips, leans, body rolls, and plenty of hip movements.
Like Tango, a salsa or bachata sequence requires more practice and preparation. The payoff is a spectacular performance that’s sure to wow your guests.
Waltz
The Waltz is a popular option for a black-tie or formal wedding since it exudes elegance. While many think of a waltz as a gentle, swooping dance, it’s actually faster than other traditional slow dances.
For the best results, pick music with a moderate to slow tempo, ideally in 3/4 time (three beats per measure), to emphasize the dance’s circular nature. If the classic Viennese Waltz feels too fast-paced, try an American, International, or French style instead.
Foxtrot
Smooth and sophisticated, the Foxtrot evolved from a “slow step” dance into an American classic. It’s also one of the most popular wedding dances for our students! Versatile and refined, the Foxtrot is suitable for dancers of all skill levels and pairs beautifully with just about any love ballad or contemporary song.
Rumba
If you feel comfortable showing your flirtatious side in public, then the Rumba may be best for your first dance.
Fans of Latin dance will especially love the Rumba, and those with minimal to basic dance training will find it more accessible than other Latin styles like Tango, Salsa, or Bachata. Because of its slower rhythm, music with a steady tempo, ideally in 4/4 time, will work best. Rumba is all about sensuality and emotional connection — for romantics, it’s a powerful entry into married life.
Start Your First Dance Lessons With Us
Your wedding day is the event of a lifetime, and a polished first dance will make it truly unforgettable. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we meet students where they are — no matter their comfort or skill level — to create the first dance tailored to your style.
Whether you’re envisioning something contemporary, classic, or just plain fun, our experienced instructors will work with you and your partner to bring your first dance to life. With our help, you’ll gain the confidence to shine on your wedding day.
Ready to start dancing? Get in touch to schedule your first dance lesson in Indianapolis, IN, today.