First dances get all the focus, but father-daughter dances are just as important. [More on mother-son dances later.] While not literally the last time you’ll dance with your dad, it does symbolize a transition to a new phase of your life, and he will probably be feeling a whole range of emotions. Honor the moment by approaching it in a thoughtful way.
You could be swing on a star.
Choosing a Song
The first step toward a great father-daughter dance is picking a song. Is there one that has meaning for the two of you? A while back we choreographed a foxtrot to Swinging of a Star because the bride’s father used to sing it to her, and then she sang it to her little girl. It was lovely. Maybe you don’t have a specific song, but you both love punk rock. Go for it. Or perhaps pick a hit from the year you were born. The point is, there are no wrong choices, so do what feels right for you.
Once you’ve picked the perfect song, be prepared to sacrifice some of it. Either have it edited or ask the DJ to fade it out at a certain point. Keep it fun, entertaining, and short. Around a minute and a half is perfect.
Making waves with Dad.
Feelings, Wo Oh Oh Feelings
Generally (sexism alert!), weddings are planned by the women in the family. Choosing the song and practicing together is a good way to make your father feel more included, and chances are he’ll jump at the chance to spend time with you.
It doesn’t matter how manly, confident, or accomplished your father is in other parts of his life, dancing in front f people may terrify him (another good reason to keep the song short). If he does seem nervous, consider taking lessons together. There’s nothing like preparation to build confidence. You might also consider having the mother-son dance at the same time to take some of the spotlight off the two of you.
One more thing to keep in mind, many dads get a bit overcome if the song is slow and sentimental, so if you want to avoid waterworks, pick something up tempo.
More dads for more fun.
Lessons & Logistics
If you do decide to take lessons together (highly recommended in my opinion), you can keep it simple with 2 or 3 moves on repeat or go full out with dazzling choreography. Decide together what you want (he may surprise you) and then just have fun with it.
It’s a little tricky if your parents live in a different area, but in my experience most fathers are willing to come into town once or twice before the wedding for something so important. And if your mother and fiancé learn the moves too, you can practice even when you’re apart.
Finally, when you finish the dance, avoid the temptation to rush off to the next thing (even if it’s cake). Let your father walk you off the floor properly, give him a hug, and savor the moment.
Enjoying the moment.
Special thanks to Taylor Square Photography and NLA Weddings for capturing the magic.
Three easy ways to find out how we can help you with your father-daughter dance.
Visit our Lessons page.
Contact us at (901) 359 – 6467 or cat@catsballroom.com
Try a free lesson to see if you like it. We know your will 😉