Afflicted with two left feet?
Need to be drunk before stepping out?
Uncontrollably bite your lower lip whenever you dance?

Oh boy.

Your primary objective: Survive the first dance

The dancing doesn't start until you hit center stage. You can slide right into these dances once you're introduced. Or save it until after you eat (but keep in mind no one will be dancing before you). Typically, this is the sequence of pairings that kick off the ceremony:

• Bride/groom. All eyes on you.
• Bride/Father and Groom/Mother. Be sure to return to your bride after this dance.
• Wedding party. Bride/groom and parents can continue to dance.
• All guests. If people are reluctant, have wedding party dance with them.

Dancing lesson: it's a good thing

Most every dance studio (and yes there are probably a dozen near where you live...go figure) offers wedding packages to get you ready for your first dance and keep you from embarassing yourself the rest of the night. When you take the lessons, remember you won't be dancing at your wedding in jeans and tennis shoes. Think about what you'll be wearing. Think about what she'll be wearing. There's going to be a lot of uncomfortable clothes and shoes between the two of you.

Try to start a few months prior to the wedding to let the moves sink in. Plus give your fiancée's toes time to heal.

First dance choices

You have a lot of moves to pick from. Depending on your skill (and risk) level, think about doing one of the following steps: Slow, Waltz, Foxtrot, Rumba, Hustle, Salsa, Swing, Cha Cha, Tango, Two Step, West Coast Swing.

Did you scratch your head when you read this list? Take a lesson. Buy a video. Elope.

Click here for a list of top bridal songs. Remember to make sure your band or DJ can play the song(s) you decide on.

For more information (sorry, no links to a magic shoe store)
Dance steps
Dance videos
Dance studio directory
Arthur Murray School of Dance
National Dance Council of America