Creating A Dance Floor Wedding To Remember

A wedding dance floor is a great way to get your guests moving and grooving and can be customised to fit your wedding style and decor. Whether you're renting a dance floor, making your own, or utilising an existing space, there are endless options to explore. Here are some ideas to get you started:

- Use a natural dance floor: If you're hosting a beach wedding, a sandy dance floor could be a fun option. Alternatively, a grassy area can work well, especially if you mow the grass short beforehand.

- Create a custom dance floor: Consider using modular tiles, plywood, or MDF boards to construct a temporary dance floor. You can paint or decorate it to match your wedding theme.

- Add lighting and decor: String lights, lanterns, disco balls, and neon signage can transform your dance floor. You can also project lighting or monograms onto the floor for a unique touch.

- Incorporate rugs: For a rustic or vintage vibe, try using rugs to create a comfortable and eclectic dance floor.

- Use existing space: If your venue doesn't offer a separate dance floor, choose an area within the reception space, such as near existing chandeliers or other decorative elements.

- Add a personal touch: Include meaningful details such as a monogram, family crest, or a quote that resonates with you.

Choosing the location and size of the dance floor

When it comes to choosing the location and size of your dance floor, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the number of guests you'll have and allocate enough space for 30%-40% of them to be dancing at any given time. Each couple will need about 9 square feet to dance, so for a party of 100 guests, you'll need about 180 square feet of dance floor space.

Once you've determined the size of your dance floor, pick a location that is level and spacious enough to accommodate your desired dimensions. Remember to leave enough space for tables and chairs around the dance floor, as not all guests will be dancing at once. If you're setting up the dance floor outdoors, make sure the ground is flat and safe for dancing, with no divots, holes, or bumps that could cause injuries.

If your wedding is taking place in a venue with an existing dance floor, you can simply dress it up with lighting and décor to make it your own. Consider string lights, lanterns, or chandeliers to create a magical atmosphere. You can also add a personal touch with a custom monogram or meaningful design on the dance floor.

If you're bringing in a custom dance floor, there are a variety of options to choose from. Classic checkered black and white dance floors are always a popular choice, but you can also opt for a sleek black and white geometric design or a romantic floral motif. For a rustic or eclectic vibe, scattering area rugs or using dark wood tiles on the grass can be a unique and beautiful option.

Don't forget to consider the overall theme and aesthetic of your wedding when choosing the location and size of your dance floor. Whether you're going for a rustic, elegant, or playful vibe, there are endless ways to make your dance floor a memorable part of your special day.

Preparing the ground

The first step in creating a dance floor for a wedding is to choose the location. If the wedding is outdoors, a flat, level surface is ideal, such as a backyard, lawn, or beach. If the wedding is indoors, a tent, concrete floor, or deck can be used as a base for the dance floor. It is important to ensure that the ground is safe and free of any hazards that could cause injury.

Once the location has been decided, the size of the dance floor needs to be determined. A good rule of thumb is to plan for 30%-40% of the guests to be dancing at any given time, with each couple needing about 9 square feet of space. For example, a wedding with 100 guests would require a dance floor of about 180 square feet.

Before setting up the dance floor, the area should be cleaned and inspected to remove any debris, such as rocks, sticks, or glass, that could cause injury. If the dance floor is going to be on grass, it is a good idea to mow the grass short and rake away any grass cuttings.

To define the dance floor area, it is helpful to mark out the space with poles, lighting, or other decorations. This will make it clear to guests that the area is designated for dancing. Hay bales, pumpkins, flower planters, or recycled pallets can be used to mark the corners, and string lights or lanterns can be hung to create a festive atmosphere.

If the dance floor is going to be on sand or grass, it is considerate to provide alternative footwear for guests, such as flip-flops or slippers, so they don't ruin their shoes or have difficulty dancing in heels.

Dance floor decorations

The dance floor is the focal point of most wedding receptions, so it's important to make the area look fun and inviting. Whether you're planning a modern minimalist wedding or a colourful celebration with tropical vibes, there are endless ways to style your wedding dance floor. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Lightbox signs: Create a fun saying, your favourite song lyric, or something to get your guests dancing.
• Neon signs: Opt for a colour that fits your colour scheme. Neon signs are perfect for an industrial or warehouse wedding with a modern edge.
• Venue décor: If you're having your wedding in an abandoned warehouse or factory, incorporate some of the original venue décor into your dance floor. For example, decorate an unused mill wheel with foliage and flowers and use it as a backdrop.
• Light-up letters and stars: Add a personal touch by placing your initials around the dance floor space. Light-up stars in various sizes also look great, especially for a modern winter wedding.
• Hanging installations: Use hanging geometric lanterns filled with tea-lights or blooms to decorate your dance floor. Metallic hanging hoops are also a unique way to give your dance floor area a special touch. Decorate them with wild foliage and greenery, and perhaps some colour-popping blooms.
• Disco balls: Transport your wedding guests to a fun and fabulous retro disco by using metallic disco balls. Team them with hot pink and bright orange details, such as neon lights or ribbons.
• Ribbons: Drape white ribbons across the beams of your venue for a chic, minimalist style, or use an array of carnival-inspired colours to add a touch of whimsy.
• Lanterns: Use colourful lanterns against the backdrop of a blank canvas venue, especially if you're planning an urban wedding with a tropical twist.
• DIY pom-poms: If you don't fancy lanterns, consider using DIY pom-poms in different textures, sizes, and colours.
• Balloons: Fill balloons with colourful confetti or greenery, or opt for an array of solid colours to match your theme.
• Cacti and succulents: Plant them in terracotta pots and dot them around your dance floor area, or hang them from glass bulbs.
• Greenery: Use an abundance of rambling greenery and foliage to give your dance floor a botanical touch.
• Edison bulbs: Drape these bulbs above your dance floor area for atmospheric lighting – a great alternative to twinkling fairy lights.
• Chill-out lounge area: Create a space for guests to take a break from dancing without missing out on the fun. Use plush armchairs and couches surrounded by rugs and even a mini cocktail bar.

Lighting and effects

The lighting and effects of your dance floor can make or break the atmosphere of your wedding reception. It is one of the key factors in creating a great party environment and should not be overlooked.

Types of Lighting

There are a variety of lighting options to choose from, and it's important to select the right type to suit your wedding style and decor.

• Dance Floor Lighting: Colourful, moving lights create a visual effect that enhances the energy of the room and encourages guests to get in the mood for dancing. Two lights are usually enough to cover the dance floor, providing different colours, shapes, and patterns.
• Uplights: These lights are placed next to walls and project a single, solid colour to add a vibe to the room. For example, teal lights can create a watery/calm feel.
• String Lights: Twinkle lights, lanterns, chandeliers, and minimalistic light fixtures create a soft, glowing, and romantic effect on the dance floor.
• Disco Balls: Hanging several disco balls in different sizes and colours will create a dazzling effect, perfect for a dance party.
• Neon Signage and Globe Lights: Custom neon signs and globe lights create a fun party vibe and go well with graphic patterned dance floor designs.
• Paper Lanterns: Hanging paper lanterns in your wedding colours, with optional battery-operated tea lights, creates an easy and impactful dance floor decoration.
• Projection Lighting: Projecting lighting onto a wooden floor can create a decorative pattern along with your names for an interesting effect.
• Cold Sparkler Machines: Add some extra sparkle to your first dance with indoor fireworks along the edge of the dance floor.
• Strobe Lights: These are best avoided as they can be annoying and may induce seizures.

Other Effects

In addition to lighting, there are other effects you can incorporate to enhance the dance floor experience:

• Custom Dance Floor: You can rent or create a custom dance floor with a variety of designs, such as checkered patterns, lettering, or a custom monogram.
• Overhead Decor: Decorate the ceiling above the dance floor with draping, twinkling lights, greenery, or balloons to create a magical space.
• Confetti and Colour-Changing LEDs: Work with your florist and technician to create a canopy of flowers and fairy lights, and consider adding confetti and colour-changing LEDs for extra festivity.
• Gobo Lights: GOBO lights or lasers can be used to personalize the dance floor for the first dance or cake-cutting.
• Monogram Projection: Projecting a monogram or your names onto the dance floor is a unique way to make it memorable.

Lighting Tips

• Dim the Lights: Dimming the lights in the room will help to focus attention on the dance floor and create a more inviting atmosphere.
• Avoid Overdoing LED Lights: LED lights are much brighter than incandescent lights and can kill the mood if overused. If you do use LED lights, make sure you have a dimmer installed.
• Sound-Activated Lighting: Using lights that react to the music can create a dynamic and engaging lighting show.
• Avoid Strobe Lights: Strobe lights can be too intense and are best avoided, especially if any guests have light sensitivities.
• Consider a DMX Controller: This allows you to control your lights from one console, triggering them to start/stop and program them as needed.
• Use Stands or Totems: Put your lights on top of totem stands or hang them from crossbar/T-bar light stands to ensure they are secure and at the correct height.

By incorporating these lighting and effects ideas, you can create a captivating and energetic dance floor that will encourage your guests to let loose and have fun.

Alternative dance floor ideas

If you're looking for alternative dance floor ideas for your wedding, there are plenty of options to choose from that will get your guests up and moving. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• The great outdoors: If your wedding is on the beach or in a backyard, you can let your guests dance on the sand or grass. Just be sure to check the area for any rocks or debris beforehand, and let your guests know that they may want to go barefoot or bring a change of shoes.
• Rugs and carpets: For a rustic or eclectic look, consider using rugs or carpets to create your dance floor. Look for cheap floor coverings made of jute, bamboo, cotton, or synthetic materials. Just be sure to secure the edges of the rugs with tent pegs to prevent tripping.
• Modular dance floor: For a more professional look, you can purchase modular tiles that snap together to create a temporary dance floor. These tiles come in wood, vinyl, or foam, and can be easily assembled to fit the size and shape you need.
• Anti-fatigue floor mats: These soft and plush mats are comfortable to dance on and provide good traction to prevent slipping. They're also waterproof, making them a good option if you're concerned about spills.
• MDF boards: MDF boards can be used to create a sturdy dance floor. Just be sure to cover them with a tarp or waterproof cover to protect them from getting wet. You can also paint or stain the boards to add a decorative touch.
• Plywood dance floor: If you're feeling handy, you can build your own dance floor using plywood sheets and joists. This option requires a bit more work, but it will give you a sturdy and customizable dance floor.
• Disco balls and hanging décor: Hang multiple disco balls in different sizes and colours for a dazzling effect. You can also use paper lanterns, string lights, or neon signage to create a fun and festive atmosphere.
• Custom designs: Consider adding a custom touch to your dance floor with decals, monograms, or a family crest. You can also use painter's tape to create a checkerboard or striped design, or project lighting onto the floor to create a decorative pattern.
• Bring the outdoors in: Create a magical space by incorporating a grass-inspired floor with starry lights and greenery. This can be a unique way to bring the beauty of nature into your wedding venue.
• Dance under the stars: If you have an outdoor wedding, take advantage of the night sky and dance under the stars. You can also use lighting effects to create a starry sky vibe, such as dangling string lights or projected LED lights.

Frequently asked questions