Photography: Sara Lázaro, Zeven
The first dance is one of the most precious moments of the wedding day. Short and sweet, it’s a rare, intimate pause — a chance for the couple to share something personal in front of everyone they love. To make this moment as meaningful as it is memorable, choose a dance style that complements the tone of your day and reflects who you are as a couple. Love timeless and classic? A waltz or foxtrot will never go out of style. Want something playful and full of energy? Salsa or swing might be your perfect match. Here, we’ve gathered the most-loved wedding dance styles to help you discover the one that feels just right.
Dos Mas En La Mesa, Olivia Rae James
Slow Dance
The classic slow dance remains a favorite for couples. It’s simple, romantic, and doesn’t require hours of choreography. At its most basic, all you need to do is gently sway with your arms wrapped around each other. That’s it. Want to take your little performance up a notch? Learn a formal dance hold: take your partner’s right hand in yours, rest your left hand on their shoulder or waist, and step side to side in time with the music. Add in pivots, a spin, or even a lift if you're feeling fancy. Tune out everything else, lock eyes with your partner, and be fully in the moment.
Tango
Tango first stole the spotlight in the early 1900s and never gave it back. Known for its rich expression, sharp lines, and unmistakable passion, this dance is full of fire and flair. If you and your partner are bold, high-energy, and love a little drama (the good kind), tango could be your perfect match. Just keep in mind: it’s not the easiest style to master. With its intricate footwork and magnetic intensity, tango takes time and technique so it’s wise to start working with a choreographer a few months before the big day.
Salsa or Bachata
Sensual, rhythmic, and full of pulse — salsa and bachata are perfect for couples who love a challenge and aren’t afraid to bring the heat. Like tango, these styles take time to master, with fast footwork, intricate turns, and partner coordination that demands practice. To really own the performance, work with an experienced dance coach who can help you build confidence and chemistry on the floor. One thing to note: salsa and bachata pair best with movement-friendly outfits, so consider a quick outfit change before your grand entrance.
Waltz
The waltz isn’t as slow and floaty as you might think. In fact, the classic Viennese waltz moves at a surprisingly quick tempo, with elegant turns and sweeping steps that require some finesse. It’s a structured dance with specific patterns, so lessons are highly recommended. There are also several styles to explore, from American and International to French, each with its own unique charm. Whichever variation you choose, the waltz never fails to look timeless, elegant, and unapologetically romantic.
Foxtrot
Foxtrot might just be the most wedding-friendly dance. It works beautifully with almost any song, be that a classic ballad or something more modern and unexpected. Another bonus? No need for an outfit change. You can float across the floor in your wedding gown, and the flowing fabrics will only enhance the elegance of your movements.
Rumba
Slow rhythm, flirtatious energy, and fluid movements make rumba one of the most intimate and romantic dances. Centered on hip action and connection, it turns every step into a beautiful conversation of love. While it does include some intricate steps, rumba is generally more beginner-friendly than other Latin dances — perfect if you're just starting out. If you're comfortable turning up the sensuality in front of a crowd, this style’s for you.
Monika Frias, Días de Vino y Rosas
Hustle or Swing
High-energy and full of personality, hustle and swing are two of the most fun dance styles. But they’re also a bit more demanding, with quick turns and playful kicks that take some coordination. A few private dance lessons can go a long way here. A good instructor will walk you through the basics and help you master the key moves that’ll impress your guests. Be sure to pay extra attention to your outfit and shoes — comfort and flexibility are non-negotiable when the tempo picks up.
Flash Mob or Mash-Up
If you really want to surprise your guests, go bold with a flash mob-inspired dance. Invite your bridesmaids, groomsmen to join in. Keep the choreography simple and repetitive so the rest of your guests can jump in too. A mash-up is just as exciting. The beauty of this style is in customization: you can mix different songs, speeds, and steps to create something completely personal. And for a modern twist, throw in a few TikTok dance trends. Who knows? Your wedding dance might just go viral.
