Long before newlyweds swayed under twinkle lights to Ed Sheeran or Taylor Swift, the “first dance” was a courtly affair—literally. In 17th- and 18th-century Europe, it was the hosts or guests of honor who opened the ballroom floor, performing a graceful minuet to signal that the celebration could begin.
From ballroom floors to wedding receptions
Over time, this elegant ritual found its way into weddings, where the couple of the day naturally took center stage. Back then, dancing wasn’t just entertainment—it was social theater. The first dance symbolized unity, confidence and joy, qualities that carried seamlessly into marriage traditions.
Modern spins on a classic tradition
Couples today are reimagining the moment with personal flair:
- Mashup moments: Start slow, then surprise guests with a burst of hip-hop, salsa, or swing.
- Mini choreographies: After a few lessons, couples unveil a polished routine—twirls, dips, and even the occasional lift worthy of a movie finale.
- All-in invitations: After the first chorus, the DJ calls everyone to the floor — turning a formal moment into a shared celebration.
- Cultural spins: Weave in traditions like the Hora, Greek line dances or folk steps that celebrate heritage and community.
RELATED: Square and Round Dancing in Southeast Michigan
Why it still matters
Today, the first dance still serves as the symbolic “opening number”—a quiet, joyful pause before the celebration unfolds. Even for couples who swear they have two left feet, it’s less about choreography and more about connection: finding a shared rhythm, taking those first steps together (sometimes literally off-beat), and inviting everyone else to share in the joy.
Whether it’s a dreamy waltz, a disco-era flashback or a spontaneous freestyle, the first dance remains what it’s always been—an opening act of love that sets the tone for the party, and the partnership, to come.
Places to find dance lessons
Ann Arbor Ballroom (private and group)
Offers ballroom, Latin, and social dance instruction with options for private lessons, group classes and wedding choreography.
8640 Moon Rd, Saline (Tri-County Sportsmen’s League)
Arthur Murray Dance Studio — Ann Arbor (private and group)
Wedding-specific programs with private lessons for classic first-dance styles (waltz, foxtrot, rumba, tango) and more.
6075 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor
Ballroom At Its Best (private and group)
Full-service ballroom & Latin studio offering private lessons, group classes, and wedding choreography.
4531 Concourse Dr, Ann Arbor
The Ballroom Dance Club of Ann Arbor (group)
A friendly, community-run group offering weekly ballroom and Latin lessons plus regular social dances open to the public.
Various Ann Arbor locations (like The League and The Union on the UM campus)
Come Dancing Studio (private and group)
Dedicated wedding dance lessons with group/private instruction and social dance parties.
465 E Michigan Ave, Saline
Dorian Deaver Dance Studio (private)
Long-time local ballroom instructor/DJ offering customized wedding first-dance coaching.
3760 Burnham Rd, Ann Arbor
Fred Astaire Dance Studios — Ann Arbor (private and group)
Tailored first-dance packages with a full partner-dance curriculum (American & International styles), plus practice parties.
337 N. Maple Rd, Ann Arbor
Swing Ann Arbor (group)
Weekly beginner partner-swing lessons and social dances; a fun option for couples choosing swing for their first dance.
911 N University Ave, Ann Arbor (Michigan League)
