Dance Hint #1
by Jeff Allen

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   I recently have had the pleasure of being invited to several weddings in the past months. One of which was particularly thrilling for me. You see it was a perfect stranger who lives in the Massachusetts area who had read one of my books and wanted me to attend the reception to watch them dance their first dance. I felt honored so I attended and watched them with overwhelming pride and joy.
   I did make many mental notes at these weddings to share with all of you so that these recent personal experiences and observations can be of benefit to those who will shortly have their wedding receptions. These comments will deal with the evening wedding reception as these have been my most recent experience and are usually lengthier.
   First, and most importantly, conduct the first dance including all parent dances, etc., immediately after the receiving line and before dinner!

There are many reasons for this (not necessarily in order) which include the following:

1. It is good etiquette for the King & Queen (Bride & Groom) to open the dance floor.

2. Your DJ can play dance music all night long rather than sleepy elevator music. Your guests will have a better time for a longer period of time.

3. Have the service people avoid the dance floor while bringing food to the table. If this is not possible because of size limitations it is a good idea to have the DJ play softer music during the bulk of the main courses service. Spills and accidents can happen with drinking or food on the dance floor, be careful.

4. Under no circumstances should anyone, with the possible exception of the photographer, be allowed to cross the dance floor when the Wedding Couple's first dance is taking place or any of the relatives or wedding party dance takes place. This is very disrespectful and discourteous.
5. Have the Photographer take 'candids' during the 'important' dances. Posing the wedding couple, or father/daughter, etc., is an interruption to the emotional meaning of these moments. These posed photos can take place later!

6. A wedding is a time of celebration. However, a lot of planning, time and money has gone into those few short hours. Please warn the wedding party against 'overindulging' before all the wedding rituals have taken place (introductions, dances, & toasts)! There is plenty of time for imbibing after the meal when the socializing begins! It may even be a good idea to appoint a "designated driver" for the wedding party. Don't let all your hard work be ruined, or your guests made uncomfortable because of an error in judgment on anyone's part (including that of the Bride and/or Groom)!