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Dancing at a wedding is a form of celebration. As a coordinator, I have seen many weddings where guests were encouraged to dance, and I have also seen weddings where there was no dance floor and no dancing.
There are many weddings worldwide where dancing is a part of the culture and tradition. Dancing is not just fun but also has many health benefits. However, guests dancing at a wedding is not mandatory, and there are other entertainment options such as games and activities to do instead.
Here are some alternatives to not offering guests dancing on the wedding day and ideas to get your guests to dance, and why dancing is a beautiful experience.
Why is there a First Dance at Weddings?
Centuries ago, it was customary at a formal ball that the guest(s) of honor would dance first to open the dance floor to all guests. That is the same for weddings and introducing the couple in a first dance. The first dance also signifies the unity and happiness of the newlyweds and symbolizes sexuality.
Do you have to have a First Dance?
No, it is not required to have a first dance for the couple at a wedding. It has become more common for couples to skip the first dance over the years. For example, I have coordinated Sunday brunch weddings with no first dance, no dance floor, and no guests dancing. Instead, there were games and activities such as:
- Photobooth
- Miniature Golf
- Cornhole
- Horseshoes
** Check out my article Wedding Cocktail Hour for ideas **
“There is nothing more awkward or sadder than an empty dance floor at a wedding.”
Kim Harvey – Wedding Planner
History of Dance:
History shows that humans began dancing as early as Before the Common Era (BCE). Paintings and etchings were discovered in Egyptian tombs that displayed dancing as part of ancient Greek customs and religious practices. Historians believed dancing was a form of celebration and entertainment in festivals and religious ceremonies. Later in the 19th century, new-age dancing, such as salsa, evolved.
Many believe that belly dancing is the world’s oldest form of dancing and was used to discover individuality and a person’s inner self and connection to others.
How Does Dance Help You?
Dancing has many benefits and can improve circulation, posture, balance, flexibility, and coordination. As well as increase stamina, reduce stress, and join people together. Dancing has the power to create a feeling of comfort, relaxation, and triggers happy thoughts through music and the act of movement.
Dance Floor Size Guide
| 50 Guests | 100 Guests | 150 Guests | 200 Guests | 400 Guests |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 x12 Dance Floor | 15 x 15 Dance Floor | 15 x15 Dance Floor | 18 x 18 Dance Floor | 25 x 25 Dance Floor |
** Click here to shop for a DIY dance floor kit **
Story Time Wedding
In 2012 in San Diego, California, I coordinated a wedding for 75 guests, and over 80% of the guests were visiting from China. After dinner, the couple had their first dance, and no one joined the dance floor. The DJ invited guests to join the dance floor, but no takers. This was mostly an older crowd, but they were still a fun group laughing and enjoying themselves. This was also a dry wedding, and only non-alcoholic beverages were served at the bar.
The DJ and I had a little pow-wow to discuss a game plan. Just as I was about to cut loose and start The Macarena, the DJ saved me from embarrassment and said, “I know what to play. I got this.” Next, I observed patiently as the DJ extraordinaire worked his magic on his laptop and punched a few buttons on the sound system. Seconds later, music was thumping, and shrills of excitement erupted from the guests as they flooded the dance floor.
Michael Jackson did the trick and kept the wedding guests on the dance floor, dancing the night away.
** Check out my article Wedding Step by Step to help plan your wedding **
Conclusion:
If dancing at your wedding is not suitable, you don’t need to offer dancing. This is your special day, and whatever you decide based on choice, religious beliefs, or physical constraints, don’t feel pressured to have a dance floor. There are many other fun options to replace dancing with and still have a magical wedding day.
~ Happy planning and enjoy your wedding day steps ~