Dance at your Wedding reception?

A traditional dance at a wedding reception can be loads of fun, can provide a sense of conviviality, and bring guests closer together. (For some general ideas on the historical context you can click here. )

However, you should plan it with some realities in mind:

Most guests are not there to dance, but to talk and eat. In spite of the most fervent requests, they will continue to yakk. That makes it hard to hear the caller.
Ladies are wearing clothing and shoes perhaps not the most comfortable for dancing.
Frequently non-dancers have trouble remembering their left from their right and alcoholic consumption rarely improves this.
The reception area may not have a large open space with a good smooth wood floor.

These tips will improve the experience for all:

You will need a professional sound system for the caller, and perhaps the band.
If at all possible, segregate an area for dance, with another area to sit and talk.
Plan on no more than 60 minutes, which gives you time for teaching three or four dances. You could elect to start this right after the bride and groom waltz while everyone is already up.
Encourage kids to dance too.
Assuming that most guests don't know any traditional dances, here is a program that usually works well:
- Bride and Groom Waltz
- Grand March
- Circle Mixer
- Sicillian Circle:"Haste to the Wedding"
- Waltz Mixer
- Last Waltz
(a mixer is a dance where partners switch on each repetition.)

The Back Porch Rockers
4737 Habersham Ridge
Lilburn, GA 30047 770-972-5430 Email: neal@mnopltd.com
Web: http://www.mnopltd.com/bprwed