What shoes should I wear for the first dance?

We suggest comfortable, non-slip shoes with support—especially for outdoor or hardwood floors common at Charlotte wedding venues. Flats, block heels, or even bridal sneakers work well under long gowns.

What first dance songs are popular in Charlotte?

Popular choices include soul classics, acoustic covers, or local artists like Charlotte’s Anthony Hamilton. Pick a song that fits your story and one you feel comfortable moving to.

How do I manage my dress while dancing?

Bustles, wrist loops, or lighter skirts help with movement. We’ll show you how to pivot, walk, and dip in your gown during your J. Major’s appointment so you feel fully prepared.

What if I’m nervous about dancing in front of guests?

Nerves are normal! Focus on your partner and keep the moment intimate. Some couples invite guests to join mid-song or fade out early to avoid too much spotlight.

Where can we take first dance lessons in Charlotte?

Studios like Arthur Murray, Queen City Ballroom, and Carolina Dance Capital offer first dance packages. Even 1–2 lessons can improve confidence and ease.

How long should our first dance be?

Keep it between 90 seconds and 2 minutes. Work with your DJ to fade the track if it’s longer. This keeps your guests engaged and the moment memorable.

Can I practice my first dance in my wedding dress?

Yes! At your final fitting at J. Major’s Bridal Boutique, bring your dancing shoes and we’ll let you rehearse a few spins in your gown so you feel confident on the dance floor.

First Dance FAQs: Bridal Advice from Charlotte’s Most Trusted Wedding Boutique

jmajors
Jun 24
3 min read

At J. Major’s Bridal Boutique, we’ve helped thousands of Charlotte brides not just find “the dress,” but also prepare for the big moments that follow including that unforgettable first dance.

Whether you’re gliding across a grand ballroom or swaying under string lights in South End, your first dance should feel just as authentic and comfortable as the dress you choose to wear. Below are real questions we hear from brides every week and expert answers designed to help you move with confidence and grace.

1. Do I need to choreograph my first dance?

You absolutely don’t have to but many couples find that light choreography builds confidence. Some brides in Charlotte take a few lessons at local studios (like Metropolitan Ballroom or Queen City Dance) just to get comfortable with timing and simple turns.

If a full routine feels stressful, stick to a “structured freestyle”: a few planned moves (dip, turn, sway) but with freedom to improvise.

2. What kind of shoes should I wear for the first dance?

Comfort and stability are key. We always recommend brides bring both heels and a dance-friendly backup (like flats or block heels) to your final dress fitting. Charlotte venues can vary if you're on a rooftop, cobblestone, or hardwood floor, non-slip soles matter!

Some brides even wear bridal sneakers under full skirts. We won’t tell.

3. Should I change into a second dress for dancing?

It’s completely up to you! A second look like a shorter dress or slip gown can make movement easier and add drama to your reception entrance. But many of our Charlotte brides dance beautifully in their ceremony gowns, especially if they choose fabrics like crepe or chiffon that allow easy movement.

We’ll help you test your gown’s “twirl factor” at your appointment.

4. What song should we pick for our first dance?

The best first dance song reflects your story. Still, if you’re stuck, Charlotte favorites often include a mix of:

Soulful classics (Etta James, Al Green)
Acoustic covers (for intimate settings)
Local artists (like Anthony Hamilton, a Charlotte native!)

Need inspiration? We’ve seen brides dance to everything from Sinatra to The Lumineers. Just make sure the tempo matches your comfort level.

5. How do I hold my dress while dancing?

It depends on the silhouette. For long trains or ball gowns, we strongly recommend adding a bustle or wrist loop during alterations. For more fitted styles, a side-slit or lightweight skirt makes it easier to move.

During your fitting, we’ll show you how to walk and pivot in your dress so you feel graceful not restricted on the dance floor.

6. What if I’m nervous about dancing in front of people?

Totally normal! Most couples aren’t professional dancers. The secret is to make it personal, not perfect. Practice a few basic moves in your living room, focus on your partner (not the crowd), and remember: nobody’s judging they’re just cheering you on.

Some Charlotte brides even invite guests to join halfway through the song to ease the spotlight.

7. Should we take first dance lessons in Charlotte?

It’s a great idea if you’re feeling unsure or want a little extra polish. Some highly rated Charlotte studios include:

Arthur Murray Dance Studio (Myers Park)
Queen City Ballroom
Carolina Dance Capital (Ballantyne)

Even one or two sessions can help you avoid the dreaded shuffle-step and feel more connected as a couple.

8. How long should our first dance last?

The sweet spot is around 90 seconds to 2 minutes. Longer than that, and guests may start checking their phones. If your chosen song is longer, work with your DJ to fade it out or cut to the chorus.

9. Can I practice in my wedding dress?

Yes, after you take your gown home from the bridal shop, we encourage you to test movements. Wear your dancing shoes and have your favorite song clip ready.

Dance With Confidence, Dress With Grace

Rather than focusing on perfection, focus on feeling real and enjoying the moment. Whether you’re rehearsing a choreographed routine or just holding each other close, the most important thing is being fully present in the moment.

At J. Major’s Bridal Boutique, we’re here to help you feel confident from the aisle to the dance floor with a gown that moves with you and a team that’s cheering you on every step of the way.

Ready to find the dress that lets you dance freely?

Book your appointment at our Charlotte bridal boutique today.