The first dance is seen as a staple part of the wider wedding timeline, with the announcement of the first dance quite the moment for newly married couples and their guests.
If the thought of waltzing away to one of the top (and often rather cheesy) first dance songs under the watchful eye of all your wedding guests is something that fills you with fear and dread rather than joy and magic however, there’s no shame in skipping this tradition.
Fill the void with something a little different to keep your wedding on track, varied and fun for everyone. Discover the unforgettable firsts that could be a part of your big day, even if a first dance isn’t!
1. First game
Whether you want your ‘first’ to be between just you and your new spouse or a group experience, a first game is a great way to break the ice. Here Amanda Douglas Events shares their ideas for couples looking to infuse their love of gaming into one very special moment:
“Why not set up a big screen and do a round of one on one Mario Kart Racing, or an epic Dance Dance Revolution or Guitar Hero battle! Maybe the two of you are big Star Wars or Game of Thrones fans? You and your partner could stage a lightsaber scene or a sword duel. After the two of you face off, let your guest have a go! It’s a great idea if the both of you are competitive and want to show off your talents as being the next Jedi knight!”
2. First drink
Toast your matrimony the traditional way by raising a glass with your wider wedding party. You could even request a special or signature drink – like your favourite tipple or a cocktail named after the two of you – to make this first more unique.
If Champagne or Prosecco is your drink of choice, filling the glasses yourself via a champagne tower is a celebratory moment that’s fun and great to watch.
3. First song
If it’s just the dancing, not being on stage, that deters you from indulging in the traditional first dance, take to the dancefloor to showcase your other talents. Enjoy a first song together on karaoke or through a sweet serenade. Performing as a duo is a magical moment that can be captured and looked back on forever.
4. First (group) dance
Take the edge off your first dance by getting your wider wedding party involved. Group dances, whether they’re freestyle or coordinated using a routine, are growing particularly popular amongst dance-shy couples searching for first dance alternatives. A group dance will get the party started and officially open the dancefloor.
5. First glimpse
Instead of a first dance, give your guests a first glimpse into the magical moments that brought you both to the altar.
A carefully curated slideshow of photographs set to the songs you love is a visual piece that offers pause for thought for you during the craziness of your big day as well as an insight into your relationship journey for your guests.
