Wedding Dance instruction

Your first dance is more than just steps—it's sharing a joyful moment amidst the wedding excitement.

This guide ensures you feel prepared, confident, and ready to shine on the dance floor.

The Advantages of Professional Lessons.

The Best Possible Instruction. Beyond just learning steps, you will learn choreography tailored specifically to your ability level, vision, and expectations, allowing you to enjoy the moment rather than worrying about your next step.

Learn a New Skill. A chance to connect, build confidence, and develop a skill you can use together at social events for years to come.

Music and Rhythm. A professional will help you finalize your song selection by identifying which tracks are easiest to dance to. They will also help you with timing and musicality, ensuring your movements are synchronized with the beat.

Safe "Hero" Moments. "Wow" moments, like a lift or a dip, are taught with the correct technique, so you execute these moves safely and confidently without risk of injury or wardrobe malfunction.

Picture Perfect Results. Avoid the "high-school sway". The focus on style ensures you look polished and confident in every photo and video.

What Are Our Dance Options?

1. Basic Steps.

Best for couples who want a natural-looking first dance without a routine.

How it works: You'll learn the basic steps in a specific dance style (like Rumba, or Foxtrot) and how to "freestyle" them together.
Pros: Minimal memorization; these skills can easily be used at future social dances.
Considerations: May lack visual impact. Without practice, it can feel a bit repetitive. Needs a lot of work to look polished.

2. The Fully Choreographed Routine (our most popular option).

Best for the "wow" factor, and visually impacting for professional photography.

How it works: A choreographed sequence of steps, customized specifically for your ability, comfort level, and choice of music.
Pros: Removes all guesswork; you know exactly where to be and what to do on each beat. A short choreography is ideal for last minute lessons.
Considerations: Requires a commitment to practice. We suggest starting early to give yourselves plenty of time to learn and keep the process stress-free.

3. The Hybrid (a mix of both).

Best for couples who want a big, but short, opening moment and want to transition quickly into party dancing.

How it works: Start with 30—60 seconds of slow dance choreography, then transition into lively social steps, as your DJ invites guests to join you on the floor.
Pros: Shortens the time you are dancing solo (if that is your choice); provides useful basic steps for social dancing.
Considerations: You'll need more time to learn two different dance styles. We recommend coordinating with your DJ / MC to ensure guests feel confident joining you on the dance floor.

What Music Should We Choose?

We can choreograph steps to a wide range of music. While most couples choose a slower tempo, some tracks are naturally easier to dance to than others. If in doubt, we can advise on your chosen song's suitability.

When you are choosing music, think about the impression you want to create with your first dance:

Rumba (Romantic and Intimate): Best for reflecting the connection of a newly wedded couple. It is perfect for smaller dance floors, and creates stunning "still frame" photography poses.

Foxtrot (Classic and Versatile): One of the easiest styles to learn. It works with a wide range of music, and is ideal for medium-size floors.

Waltz (Graceful and Flowing): A beautiful, traditional choice for a large dance floor. Be aware it is technically demanding, and requires a more intensive learning curve and a considerable commitment to practice, in order to achieve that signature, effortless glide. A rewarding challenge for those with time.

Swing or Cha Cha (Up-Tempo and Fun): Energetic and playful! These styles are perfect for surprising your guests and kicking off a high-energy dance party.

Pro-Tip: Choose a song that holds personal meaning for both of you. When you identify with the music, it is easier to truly "dance" with emotion rather than focusing on your steps, and the routine becomes much easier to remember. Selecting a popular, well known song is a great choice—it builds an immediate connection with your guests, ensuring they remember your performance long after the night ends.

About Your Lessons

Where do lessons take place?

Studio: At the Lighthouse Community Centre, 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay.
Your own venue: We can travel to your location, from Comox Valley to Parksville.

What is the cost of lessons?

Single Private Lesson: $70 (1 hour).
6-Lesson Package: $390 ($65 per lesson, pre-paid).
9-Lesson Package: $540 ($60 per lesson, pre-paid).

Note: Rates are inclusive of all taxes (What You See Is What You Pay).

Recommended method payment is by e-transfer to cortajacadance@shaw.ca It will auto-deposit (no need for a password).

If providing your own venue, you are responsible for any floor rental fees.

Minimum space requirements apply, and vary depending on which dance style you choose.

Travel fee of $10 per lesson applies for lessons at your own venue.

How long does it take to learn a dance?

Most couples feel confident and "performance-ready" after 4 to 6 lessons.

This varies based on your availability, previous dance experience, and the complexity of your routine.

When should we start?

We recommend starting 2 to 3 months before your wedding. This allows for:

Customization: Tailoring the choreography to your specific song and skill level.
Muscle Memory: Ensuring you feel "at ease" and natural without overthinking your next step.
Scheduling: Fitting in lessons and practice sessions before the final wedding rush.

What should we wear?

Clothing: Wear comfortable, breathable layers. Avoid heavy denim or clothing that limits your range of motion.
Shoes: Start with soft-soled shoes. Avoid rubber soles (like certain sneakers) that "stick" to the floor, as these can make turning difficult.

Pro-Tip: Once you are comfortable with your steps, we recommend practicing in your actual wedding shoes and a skirt or dress similar in length to your wedding dress. This ensures you get used to the feel of your wedding attire before the big day.