Creating A Dance Floor For Your Outdoor Wedding

If you're planning an outdoor wedding, you may be wondering how to create a dance floor for your guests. While you could rent a dance floor, it can be expensive and hard to find the right size and quality. Instead, consider making your own! Here are some options for creating a DIY outdoor wedding dance floor:

- Natural dance floors: If your wedding is on the beach, a sandy dance floor could be a fun option. Just make sure to check for any rocks or garbage. For a grassy area, mowing the grass very short can create a natural dance floor.

- Modular dance floor: You can purchase modular tiles to create a temporary dance floor. Look for tiles that match the vibe of your event and cover the desired area.

- Carpet: For a rustic look, lay down a large area rug and secure it with tent pegs. Jute and bamboo rugs are great, inexpensive options.

- Anti-fatigue floor mats: These soft and plush mats are comfortable and safe, as they are hard to slip on. They are also waterproof, making them a good option for a deck.

- MDF boards: A large MDF board can be used as a sturdy dance floor. Cover it with a tarp or waterproof cover to protect it from the elements.

- Plywood dance floor: You can build your own dance floor using plywood sheets and joists. Cut the joists to size and nail them together to create a frame, then add plywood sheets on top.

Renting vs buying a dance floor

Renting a dance floor for an outdoor wedding is a convenient option for couples who don't want to build their own. However, it can be challenging to find a rental that fits your size requirements, budget, and preferred quality. Here is a detailed look at the pros and cons of renting versus buying a dance floor for your outdoor wedding:

Renting a Dance Floor

Renting a dance floor can be a good option if you want a convenient, ready-made solution. Here are some advantages and considerations to keep in mind:

Advantages of Renting

• Convenience and Ease: Renting a dance floor saves you the time and effort of building one from scratch. You don't have to worry about sourcing materials, constructing the dance floor, or disassembling it after the wedding.
• Variety of Options: Rental companies offer a range of dance floor styles, such as white, wood, and checkerboard patterns, allowing you to choose a design that fits your wedding theme.
• No Storage Concerns: When you rent a dance floor, you don't have to worry about storing it after the wedding. This is especially beneficial if you don't have the space or desire to keep a large dance floor.

Considerations When Renting

• Cost: Renting a dance floor can be expensive, with quotes ranging from $700 to $800 and even up to $2,000, depending on the size and style. This cost can be a significant addition to your wedding budget.
• Availability and Timing: Finding a rental dance floor in the desired size and quality may be challenging, especially during the busy wedding season. You may have limited options, and it could be difficult to secure a rental for your exact date.
• Size Restrictions: Rental dance floors often have size limitations, and you may find that the available options are too small for your guest list. This can result in a cramped dancing area, detracting from the overall experience.
• Limited Customization: Rental dance floors typically come in standard sizes and designs, leaving limited room for customization. If you have a specific vision or unique requirements, finding a rental that aligns perfectly with your needs may be challenging.

Buying a Dance Floor

Building or buying a dance floor gives you more control over the size, design, and quality. Here are the key advantages and considerations:

Advantages of Buying

• Customization: When you build or buy your dance floor, you have the freedom to customize it to your exact specifications. You can choose the materials, size, and design to match your wedding theme and venue.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Depending on the materials and size, building a dance floor can be more cost-effective than renting, especially if you have the skills and time to construct it yourself.
• Reusability: Purchasing a dance floor means you'll have it for future events. It can be a worthwhile investment if you plan to host other gatherings, such as graduations, parties, or neighbourhood get-togethers.
• Availability: Building your dance floor ensures that you have control over its availability. You don't have to worry about competing with other couples for rentals during the busy season.

Considerations When Buying

• Time and Effort: Constructing a dance floor requires time, effort, and some level of expertise. If you're short on time or unsure about your DIY skills, building a dance floor may add unnecessary stress to your wedding planning.
• Storage: After the wedding, you'll need to consider storage for the dance floor. This may be a challenge if you don't have a suitable space or intend to use it again.
• Disassembly and Transport: If you opt for a DIY dance floor, keep in mind that it will need to be disassembled and transported to your wedding venue. This adds complexity to the process and may require additional help.
• Quality and Durability: The quality and durability of a DIY dance floor depend on the materials used and the construction process. If not built properly, it may not hold up during the event or accommodate all your guests safely.

In conclusion, both options have their advantages and considerations. Renting a dance floor is convenient and saves time, but it can be expensive and may not offer the customization you desire. Building or buying a dance floor gives you more control over the design and size, but it requires time, effort, and storage considerations. Ultimately, the decision depends on your budget, the level of customization you want, and how much time and energy you're willing to invest in creating your dream dance floor.

Choosing the right surface

When choosing the right surface for your outdoor wedding dance floor, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you'll need to decide whether you want to rent or purchase the materials required. While renting may be more convenient and save you time, purchasing the materials can be more cost-effective, especially if you have a large number of guests. Additionally, purchasing allows you to choose the exact size and quality you need, and you'll have the flooring available for future events.

If you opt for a rental, keep in mind that the size may be limited, and there may be decals or advertisements on the flooring that detract from your desired decor. On the other hand, if you decide to buy the materials, you'll have more flexibility with sizing and can choose a surface that complements your theme.

Another important consideration is the type of surface you want. Modular tiles are a popular option that can give your dance floor a professional look. These tiles are easy to assemble and come in various materials such as wood, vinyl, or foam. Wood tiles offer a sleek and elegant finish, while vinyl and foam tiles provide a softer surface, which can be ideal for children or older guests.

If you're looking for a more rustic or chic barn-style wedding, a large area rug or carpet can be a great option. Just remember to secure the edges with tent pegs to prevent tripping hazards. Anti-fatigue floor mats are also an excellent choice, as they are comfortable, reduce the risk of slipping, and are typically waterproof.

For a sturdier option, consider using MDF boards or plywood sheets. These materials provide a solid base and can be painted to match your wedding colours or themed with a checkerboard pattern. If you choose this route, don't forget to prime and seal the surface to ensure its durability.

Ultimately, the right surface for your outdoor wedding dance floor depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the level of customisation you desire. By considering these factors, you can create a dance floor that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing for your special day.

Preparing the ground

Choose the Right Location

Select a location that is relatively flat and free from any divots, holes, or bumps that could pose a safety hazard. If you're setting up the dance floor in your backyard, ensure the area is large enough to accommodate the expected number of guests. Keep in mind that about 30% of your guest list will be dancing at any given time, so set aside approximately 3 sq ft (0.28 m2) for each guest.

Clean and Inspect the Area

Thoroughly inspect and clean the chosen area to remove any debris, sticks, rocks, or litter that could cause tripping or injuries. Pay close attention to broken glass or other sharp objects. If there are any underground sprinklers or electrical wiring in the area, make sure to mark or cover them appropriately.

Consider the Ground Surface

The type of ground surface you choose will depend on the theme of your wedding and your guests' comfort. Here are some options:

• Grass: Mow the grass as short as possible to create a smooth and comfortable dance floor. While grass offers a natural cushion, it may not be suitable for complicated dance moves.
• Sand: If you're hosting a beach wedding, a sand dance floor can be a fun option. Ensure there are no rocks or debris hidden beneath the surface, and decorate the area to make it clear that it's designated for dancing.
• Carpet: For a rustic or chic barn-style wedding, consider laying down a large area rug. Secure the edges of the rug to the ground using tent pegs to prevent bunching and tripping hazards. Jute and bamboo rugs are sturdy, unique, and usually more affordable options.

Create a Sturdy Base

To protect your guests' footwear and provide a stable dancing surface, consider creating a sturdy base layer. This is especially important if the ground is uneven or prone to getting muddy. You can use firm tiles, such as the Matrax Light Duty Pedestrian Composite Mats, which are made of polyethylene plastic and can be easily connected without adhesives. These tiles also have small drainage holes, making them suitable for outdoor use. Alternatively, you can use plywood sheets and joists to build a raised dance floor.

Remember, preparing the ground is essential for the safety and enjoyment of your guests. Take the time to choose the right location, clean the area thoroughly, select an appropriate ground surface, and consider creating a sturdy base to ensure a memorable and accident-free wedding celebration.

Decorating the dance floor

Now that you have decided on the type of dance floor you want for your outdoor wedding, it's time to decorate it! Here are some ideas to make your dance floor the focal point of your wedding:

• Signage: Make a fun and eye-catching "Dance Floor" sign to let your guests know where the party is at! You can also add some stanchions and rope off the area to make it more defined.
• String Lights: Hang string lights or fairy lights above the dance floor to create a magical and romantic ambiance. This will not only make the dance floor stand out but also set the mood for a night of fun and celebration.
• Flowers and Greenery: Add some fresh flowers or greenery garlands around the perimeter of the dance floor. This will bring a touch of nature and elegance to the space. You can also use flower petals to create a beautiful pattern or design on the dance floor itself.
• Light-up Letters: Spell out "Dance" or "Love" with large light-up letters. This will not only decorate the space but also serve as a great backdrop for photos.
• Colourful Rugs: If you're going for a more rustic or eclectic look, layer some colourful rugs or runners on the dance floor. This will add texture and visual interest to the space.
• Candles: For an intimate and romantic atmosphere, surround the dance floor with candles. You can use candle lanterns or even floating candles in water for a dreamy effect. Just make sure any open flames are a safe distance from the dance floor to prevent any accidents.
• Balloons: Add some balloons in your wedding colours around the dance floor. This will create a festive and playful atmosphere. You can also use balloon arches or garlands to frame the dance floor and make it more Instagram-worthy.
• Personalised Monogram: Create a personalised monogram with your initials or wedding date and place it in the centre of the dance floor. This will not only make a great statement piece but also be a constant reminder of your special day every time you dance.
• Confetti: Who doesn't love a good confetti moment? Get some biodegradable confetti and sprinkle it on the dance floor for a fun and colourful surprise. Your guests will love dancing amidst the confetti, and it will make for some amazing photos.

Remember, the key is to decorate in a way that reflects your style and theme. Don't be afraid to mix and match different elements to create a unique and memorable dance floor for your outdoor wedding!

Making a DIY dance floor

If you're putting together an outdoor wedding, you may be wondering how to create a dance floor outside of a banquet hall. The good news is that it's fairly easy to do, and there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to materials. Here are the steps to make a DIY dance floor for your outdoor wedding:

Step 1: Design your event layout

When planning your event layout, make sure to set the dance floor in a highly visible area. Consider putting the seating on one side of the dance floor and the DJ or speakers on the other side, near the exit or bathrooms. This way, your guests will have to walk past the dance floor and will be encouraged to participate. Put less essential items, such as a photo booth or coffee bar, towards the edges of the layout.

Step 2: Determine the size of your dance floor

As a general guide, you can expect around 30% of your guests to be actively dancing at any given time, and each guest will need about 3 square feet of space to move around. If you know you'll have a crowd of dance enthusiasts, you may want to set aside enough space for 40-50% of your guest list. For example, if you have 100 guests, you can assume that about 30 people will be dancing at any given time, so you'll need at least 90 square feet for your dance floor.

Step 3: Choose a safe and flat area for dancing

Once you've determined the size of your dance floor, choose an area that is relatively flat and safe for dancing. Avoid any divots, holes, or bumps in the ground that could pose a tripping hazard. If you're hosting the event at your home, your backyard or front yard is probably your best bet. You can also use a deck, but be sure not to overload it or risk structural damage.

Step 4: Prepare the dance floor area

Clear the chosen area of any garbage, rocks, sticks, or other debris that could cause injuries. This step is crucial, especially if guests decide to dance barefoot or without shoes. If you're setting up the dance floor on grass, consider mowing it down to a very short length to catch any hidden debris and make your guests more comfortable.

Step 5: Create a base layer

Now, it's time to start assembling your dance floor. If you want a professional-looking dance floor, you can purchase modular tiles that match the vibe of your event. These tiles are easy to put together by pushing the sides together like puzzle pieces. Wood tiles will give you a more elegant look, while vinyl or foam tiles will be softer and provide more support for children or older guests.

Another option is to lay down large sheets of MDF boards. Head to a construction supply store and ask for an MDF board that's big enough to cover your dance floor. You can also paint the MDF board to match your wedding colours or add a fun design. Just be sure to sand the surface, prime it, and seal it with polyurethane or lacquer after painting.

Step 6: Build a frame and add plywood sheets (optional)

If you want a more sturdy and raised dance floor, you can build a frame using plywood sheets and joists. Purchase enough plywood sheets to match the size of your dance floor and 2 x 3-inch joists that are 8 feet long. The plywood sheets are universally sized at 4 x 8 feet, so you may need to adjust your dance floor size accordingly. Get the joists cut into 45-inch pieces at the store, or cut them yourself using a miter or circular saw.

Build rectangular frames out of the joists for each plywood sheet. Then, install four support beams inside each frame using the shorter joists. Nail the frames together to create the base of your dance floor. Finally, lay the plywood sheets on top and nail them into the frame. You can also add a layer of paint to the plywood to give it some colour.

Step 7: Test and decorate your dance floor

Once your dance floor is assembled, be sure to test it out to ensure it's stable and secure. You can also add some decorations to make it stand out, such as string lights or a sign that says "Dance Floor." If you're worried about guests' shoes, you can provide a basket of cheap sandals or flip-flops in various sizes for them to use.

Frequently asked questions