Perfecting Your Routine For Your Special Day
Your First Dance can be daunting and it can be hard to know where to start.
By being immersed in Wedding Entertainment and by chatting with couples about music for their special day, we felt like there was an opportunity to further support our couples in their bridal dances – which is why we offer First Dance Lessons. Whether it’s their first dance, parent dance, bridal entrance or even a flash mob, we’re here to help our couples nail not only their music, but their dance routines too.
It can be hard knowing who to go to when you’re thinking about your first dance, which is why many couples opt out, and find themselves winging it on their special day and feeling unprepared, then possibly cringing when watching this back in their film or on social media watching their friends and families stories.
We prioritise our couples’ comfort and enjoyment and are dedicated to helping all couples feel as though their wedding dance can feel “put together” but also special and personal to them.
We believe that the key to a memorable first dance lies in comfort and confidence. That’s why our first priority is creating a relaxed and welcoming environment where you can let your love shine on the dance floor. Our instructor’s warm and patient approach ensures that even the most novice dancers feel at ease from the moment they step into our Melbourne based studio. Not to mention we start each class with a complimentary glass of champas, to help ease you into the lesson.
Whether you’re taking your first steps as a couple or aiming to dazzle with intricate choreography, our first dance lessons are tailored to suit your needs. Marissa’s expertise allows her to adapt each lesson plan to accommodate different skill levels, ensuring that every couple feels empowered to express their love through dance, no matter their experience.
Your love story is unique, and so should be your first dance. From classic ballads to upbeat numbers we can choreograph a bespoke routine that highlights your strengths and tells your love story in a way that feels authentic and unforgettable.
No two couples are alike, and neither are their first dances. That’s why we offer a range of dance packages designed to suit your individual needs and preferences. From short and sweet routines to intricate mashups of different dance styles, our packages cater to couples of all skill levels and aspirations.
Our Clients
Jack and Elyse had our talented duo, Romy perform their first dance song, Everywhere by Fleetwood Mac. They came to us after a dance that was simple and elegant and looked put together. Something that looked natural and fun to them, but a bit more refined and polished.
Marissa took them under her wing and put together a comprehensive lesson and routine that was also recorded for the couple to reflect on and practice.
Their end result was both effortless and touching. Plus it was a memorable and enjoyable experience for them, and we were thrilled to work with them on this aspect of their day.
Check out Jack and Elyse’s First Dance Lessons with our superstar instructor Marissa.
Our Instructor
Meet Marissa, The heart and soul of Hey Jack’s Dance Lessons.
With rhythm running through her veins, Marissa has 15 years of Dance Teaching under her belt, and is now using her passion for dance and wedding expertise to curate and choreograph tailored dance routines for the couples, parents and bridal parties of Hey Jack.
Marissa taught a wide range of age groups and with her experience is able to accommodate for all skill levels, and walks of life. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer, wanting to perfect your routine with an experienced instructor, or you’re a beginner that’s never set foot on a dance floor, Marissa’s passion for teaching and wealth of experience with couples and bridal parties (often beginners!) assures your enjoyment and comfort will be our priority. We know that dancing in front of people, especially strangers can be tricky, and that’s why we aim to make this a reassuring experience.
What made you decide to start choreographing wedding dances?
I’ve been teaching dance in most genres for a long time and branching out into wedding dances has been a dream. I love seeing couples work together and creating such a special moment between them.
What’s the most rewarding part of teaching wedding dances?
The most rewarding part is seeing my clients perform on the night and nailing the steps they have worked so hard to master. Hearing the guests cheer for them in those epic moments and the smile on my couples faces makes it all so worth it.
What advice do you have for potential students?
Learning a Choreographed dance gives you a plan to follow so you can do less thinking and more dancing. Let us teach you the steps so you can enjoy your first dance without the stress of not knowing what to do. Trust me the lessons in the lead up and all fun and laughs too.
Answering Your Questions
How do I determine which package and level to choose?
Your choreographer will contact you to discuss your dance goals and determine the most suitable level for you. We prioritise your comfort, so this conversation is of extremely importance to us.
How will the choreographer understand our preferences?
We take time to get to know you before your lesson, allowing us to customise the routine to your liking. Additionally, we’ll have a pre-lesson conversation to address any specific details and questions you may have, and if you’re up for it, we can even enjoy a cheeky beverage to make it a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
What are the advantages of having a choreographed dance?
To begin with, simply swaying back and forth with your partner, while lovely, might not make a big impact. A choreographed dance adds structure and is sure to excite your guests. Moreover, these lessons serve as a bonding experience for you and your partner, filled with laughter and enjoyment, resulting in a dance you’ll forever cherish.
We’ve answered more of your burning questions under our FAQ section on our Wedding Dance Page.
Our Packages
We’ve designed our packages to suit a range of capabilities and skill levels. Whether your dance is short and simple, or you have an epic bridal party dance planned, we have lesson plans that can cover it all. Plus we record our lesson and choreography so that you can practise at home and be guided along the way.
Movement $690 + GST
2 x 60-minute sessions
- Simple yet elegant choreography to a single 1-minute track
- Perfect for couples looking for a beautiful moment without the complexity
Harmony – $990 +GST
3 x 60-minute sessions
- Refined choreography adding sophistication to your dance
- Ideal for couples wanting to add flair to their performance
Rhythm (Popular) – $1,190 +GST
4 x 60-minute sessions
- Comprehensive package for a truly unforgettable experience
- Detailed choreography tailored to a longer 2-minute track
Technique – $1,490 +GST
5 x 60-minute sessions
- Unique dance mashup incorporating various genres/styles
- Highly personalised and dynamic routine for couples seeking something special
Whether you’re dreaming of a simple sway or a showstopping performance, Hey Jack’s First Dance Lessons are here to make your wedding dance dreams come true. With our experienced dance instructor, personalised choreography, and range of packages to choose from, you’ll be dancing forever with confidence and joy. Let’s make your first dance as unforgettable as your love story—book your lesson today!
Here are our best tips to staying relaxed and preparing for your wedding dances!
We know that getting things started can be overwhelming, especially if you’re already nervous about your first dance. Once your lessons are over, reality may set in that you’ve got to do this in front of your loved ones, but we can assure you, once you’re there, with the adrenaline and excitement of your day and comfort of your partner, you’ll feel so much better.
- Start Early: Get a head start on your dance lessons so you have plenty of time to get the hang of it. The sooner you start, the more relaxed you’ll feel when the big day rolls around!
- Practice Regularly: Practice makes perfect! Set aside time for regular practice, outside of your dance lessons, sessions in the lead up to your wedding day. The more you practise, the more comfortable you’ll feel with the choreography. Plus, it’s a great way to spend time with your partner, friends, parents or whoever you’re practising your dance with.
- Focus on Fun: Remember that your first dance is a celebration of your love, so focus on enjoying the moment rather than stressing about perfection. Embrace any mistakes or imperfections with laughter and grace. We offer some champas on arrival for our lessons, to ease you into your class, and lighten the mood so we’re going into the lesson with an open mind, ready to enjoy the moment.
- Communicate: Communication is key to a successful first dance. Talk openly with your dance partner and instructor about any concerns or preferences you have regarding the dance, and work together to ensure everyone involved is comfortable and confident.
- Trust Your Instructor: Trust in the expertise of your dance instructor. They’re there to guide you every step of the way and ensure that you feel prepared and confident for your first dance.
- Visualise Success: Take some time to visualise yourself performing the dance flawlessly. Visualising success can help boost your confidence and mentally prepare you for the dance.
- Inhale, Exhale: If you find yourself feeling nervous or anxious, take some deep breaths to help calm your nerves. Do this with your dance partner before you begin your practice in the lead up to your day, and then finally before your dance, to help ease your nerves…A glass or two of sparkling may help too 😉
- Stay Present: During your first dance, focus on staying present in the moment.Try to block out any distractions and focus your attention on your partner and the music. Allow yourself to be fully immersed in the joy of the moment.
- Smile! : A genuine smile and eye contact can go a long way in conveying confidence and connection during your first dance. Even if you’re nervous, smiling helps you feel happier, plus it’s contagious! You’ll have everyone else smiling and enjoying the moment.
- Embrace Imperfections: Remember that no dance performance is perfect, and that’s okay! Overthinking it can lead to stiffness. Relax, and embrace any imperfections or slip-ups with a sense of humour and keep on dancing. Your guests will remember the joy and love you exude more than any minor mistakes.
The Best Wedding Dances
Everyone’s Wedding Dances are different. You may opt for a simple first dance, and a more exciting bridal party entrance. Or perhaps a heartfelt dance with a parent and a fun and impressive dance with your partner to wow your guests – whatever you choose, it’s a reflection on you as a couple and what excites you and your loved ones.
We’ve seen some incredible, fun, silly, or extravagant viral dances throughout the years that have been great inspo for deciding how to spice up your wedding dances, and give your guests something that tells your story while also being entertaining and enjoyable to watch, but also perform.
Whether you’re a couple that loves to dance, or a bit dancefloor shy, there’s always songs, and routines that can represent you as a couple, and help your wedding dances feel special.
If you’re looking for something that your guests can really engage with, in the age of social media, there are so many fun, trending sounds and dances that you can incorporate into your routine.
We love this K-pop routine, one of our brides, Joey did for their guests! She combined her and her guests’ love of Kpop into a fun, surprise routine for her partner Geoff.
Or if Beyonce is more your style, you can count on her to create a trending moment for you.
We love this viral wedding dance to “Cuff It”
If you’re needing some more inspo – both lively and fun, or even slower and emotional, you can browse our top and trending songs for wedding dances in Our Journal:
Let’s Get This Party Started
Engaging in first dance lessons isn’t just about mastering the steps—it’s also a fantastic opportunity for you and your partner to bond before the big day. Spending time together on the dance floor during these lessons allows you to connect in a unique and meaningful way, strengthening your relationship and creating cherished memories as you prepare to tie the knot.
Throughout the lessons, you’ll share laughter, support, and moments of triumph as you navigate new dance moves together. It’s a chance to let loose, be playful, and share intimate experiences in a fun and relaxed environment. Dancing requires trust, communication, and teamwork—all vital components to be shared between you and your partner.
The shared excitement and anticipation of your wedding day will only amplify the experience, making each lesson a special and unforgettable part of your journey toward forever. So grab your partner’s hand, turn up the music, and get ready to dance into married life together!
