Wedding ball opening dance: the dances you need!

Why do we do a wedding ball opening dance? 

Among the key moments of a wedding is the wedding ball opening dance which occupies pride of place. But, then where does the creation of opening come from and for what purpose? We will explore why this concept is considered a tradition as well as the reasons why it is still in force. 

An ancient tradition

The ballroom dance at a wedding dates back thousands of years. It's about a tradition which finds its origins in the morals of the European aristocracy with the baroque dance. At the time, the bride and groom opened the ball in a majestic way. It was a moment when society could admire the grace of the couple, thus symbolizing the union, the commitment of the newlyweds but also the unity of the two families. 

However, the opening dance remains relevant today without it being reserved for the elite. It became an opportunity for the couple to shine while showing their complicity and their love dancing. But, in some cultures, the opening ball is accompanied by special rituals. For example, in Jewish tradition, the married couple dances around a handkerchief held out by the guests to symbolize their union. 

A moment of intense connection

The opening of the dance ball often begins with a moment when the bride and groom's eyes meet. It is an intimate moment where time seems to stand still. In the eyes of lovers you can read the promise of eternal love, there gratitude to be together on this day, complicity And the emotion what this special day brings. Moreover, words are not enough to convey what the bride and groom feel, but the eyes speak the language of the soul. 

After which, the bride and groom make physical contact. They hold each other closely, move in harmony and lose themselves in each other's arms. It's a public demonstration of their deep bond and mutual commitment. Their synchronized movements reflect their progress together in life. 

The wedding wouldn't be possible without the guests. This is why it is also an opportunity for guests to feel this deep connection. 

A source of unforgettable memories

The opening dance marks the start of the wedding reception, the festivities are officially underway. When the couple begins their first dance as husband and wife, the emotion is felt. Every movement is imbued with deep meanings. Also, some couples choose to put creativity at the service of choreography, leaving lasting impressions on guests, creating lasting memories and stories to tell in the future. 

The importance of the choice of music

Music has the power to transcend words and of touch the soul. Very often, music transmits symbolic emotions, memories and feelings in the eyes of the couple. In addition, music helps create an appropriate atmosphere to express the couple's emotions and can bring guests together around the celebration. Indeed, the music indicates the theme or style of the wedding evening. For example, if the theme is the 1980s, the songs will revolve around Stevie Wonder. Or if the couple is focusing on romance, music by Stan Smith or Ellie Goulding may be playing. 

The usefulness of the choice of music

Also, the music reflects the tastes and personalities of the couple. It must be representative of the couple's history and love. Moreover, in the future, the music will instantly recall the opening of the ball. Both for the couple and for the guests and the music will influence them to join the dance floor or simply observe the couple with a tender gaze. Finally, music can reinforce the symbolism of the opening of the ball.

The slow

Opt for one ballroom dancing like the slow dance opener is a romantic and meaningful decision. Moreover, it is an option favored by thousands of couples for reasons that we will explore right away. 

The choice of slow as a dance opener

First of all, the slow has a very specific melody, which is slow and which transmits a emotional language which allows the bride and groom to communicate their love, their complicity and their commitment in a deep and meaningful way. Particularly thanks to the sweet notes and poetic lyrics. 

Furthermore, this choice is not made by chance. Indeed, the slow demonstrates a grace and a connection between the partners. This results in the synchronized and slow movements, THE tender looks and the affectionate gestures. In addition, through dance a symphony of emotions is created. Not to mention that the opening dance is a moment of shared intimacy in front of the eyes of loved ones. Moreover, the romantic atmosphere impacts them, we can see smiles and warm applause adding magic to the moment. This way, guests can feel the love emanating from the couple. 

How to slow dance

The first step to slow dancing as a ballroom opener is to choose the perfect song to make dancing easier. It's best to go for a slow, romantic melody that has meaning. Then, if you are not comfortable dancing, it is advisable to take some dance classes before the wedding. 

After which you can start practicing with your partner. Choose to dance with the shoes intended for the wedding to get used to dancing with them. Then start the music and start with a embrace. Simply hold each other closely, with your left hand in your partner's right hand and your right hand resting gently on their shoulder. And your spouse should place their left hand on your right shoulder. 

The basic steps

Then learn them no basis. These consist of walking slowly according to the rhythm of the music. After that, you can practice more complex movements, such as side steps, forward and backward steps, and light rotations. During the dance, don't hesitate to exchange glances and smiles with your partner to add an intimate dimension to your dance. Finally, to close the dance, you can gently tilt your partner's head towards yours for a romantic kiss.

Salsa

More and more couples are turning to an energetic and passionate dance like salsa, seeing it as an exciting and memorable option for reasons that we will elaborate on. 

Why choose salsa? 

There salsa dance is a Latin dance exuberant And energetic which makes bodies and souls vibrate. Coming from the Caribbean and Latin America, it is made up of rapid foot movements, turns and fiery rhythms. When chosen as the opening of the ball, it creates a startling surprise. For good reason, the norm is slow music while salsa brings a touch of'exoticism and D'excitement. Furthermore, salsa appears to be an excellent way toexpress passion, by the sensual movements, rotations and complex figures. 

Also, salsa can have a cultural dimension by delving into Latin American wealth. Particularly if the bride and groom have a link with Latin culture, this can reflect pride in origins. In addition, salsa establishes a festive atmosphere with its catchy rhythms and playful movements. 

How to dance salsa as a ballroom opener

Start by learning the no basis. That is, forward-backward steps and side-to-side steps. Front-back steps consist of moving the left foot forward and then moving the right foot back. Regarding lateral steps, you must shift your weight from one foot to the other while remaining in place. It is with these steps that your dance is built. 

Then you can integrate the dynamic tricks and figures. To do this, learn simple tricks like the right and left twist, as well as tricks like leg crossovers and passes. After which it is important that you are expressive, that you release your passion and your connection with your partner. Then, to keep the sensuality dance, keep a eye contact, physical and send subtle signals to your spouse for guide your movements. Finish with an elegant final movement and thank your audience. 

The waltz

The waltz like dance for two occupies a privileged place for a ball opening. Particularly because it represents elegance and is sure to cause a sensation among the guests. 

The reasons for choosing the waltz 

First of all, the waltz embodies the refinement and the grace by its fluid movements, its sophisticated touch and its graceful rotations which immerse you directly in a romantic atmosphere. In addition, the waltz allows you to create harmonious gestures. Particularly because it requires a strong coordination between the partners as well as a controlled synchronization and an intimate connection between the bride and groom. Finally, the waltz also touches the guests emotionally through the beauty of the dance but also through the intense connection between the bride and groom. 

How to practice waltzing? 

To successfully reproduce the waltz so as to impress your guests, start in a closed position, facing your partner. Your husband should walk with his left foot forward, while you walk backward with your right foot. Next, your partner takes a side step with their right foot while you do the same with your left foot. Finally, your partner takes a closing step with their left foot and you with your right foot. Then, repeat these movements, adding gentle turns to follow the music. 

Rock

While many people choose a waltz or a traditional dance for their prom opening, some want to surprise by taking a rock dance to bring a touch of liveliness and energy to this event. 

An energy choice for a ball opening

Rock dancing is known for its energy and his excitement. It is in particular his rapid movements, his turns and his jumps which give a festive tone to the opening of the ball. Unlike the usual openings where slow dances take precedence, the rock dance creates a memorable surprise through its originality and the way it breaks conventions. 

In addition, rock offers an exceptional advantage, that of having a freedom of expression. Indeed, you can personalize your dance and add movements and styles that suit you. 

Also, it may be interesting to have a fusion between modernity and traditionalism. 

Learn to rock dance

To succeed in your rock dance, stand up straight with a confident and relaxed posture, facing your partner with a slight gap between you. 

First, learn the basics of rock dancing and practice them. Start in an open position, hand in hand, facing your partner. Your rider takes a side step to the right with your right foot, then you do the same from the left side with your left foot. Then bring it back and your partner will do the same to return to the starting position. Finally, repeat these gestures according to the rhythm of the music. Don't hesitate to add movements that suit you to personalize your dance. 

To conclude

We have seen that the opening ball dance for the wedding is a tradition dating back to the European aristocracy. If ball openings are still relevant today, it is for many reasons : 

• An ancient tradition

• A moment of intense connection

• A source of unforgettable memories 

• The importance of the choice of music

Then, we continued by offering you several dance styles suitable for opening the ball, starting with the slow where we dissected: 

• The choice of slow as a dance opener 

• How to slow dance

Then we moved on to salsa : 

• Why choose salsa? 

• How to dance salsa as a ballroom opener

After which we discovered the waltz : 

• The reasons for choosing the waltz

• How to practice waltzing?

To end on the rock : 

• An energy choice for a ball opening

• Learn to rock dance

Learn to dance with DECIBEL®

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Because we know how important it is to have breath and energy to last through a choreography, our coaches help you to strengthen your cardio and muscles on the perfect playlists to get comfortable with your movements. And, to get you into the swing of things, a dim light will heat up above your head to train you. 

So, get acclimatized for the big day!