Williams and Karmen Fails of West Philadelphia, both 29, launched the company in February to tap into an explosion of interest in choreographed dance numbers that turn the traditional first wedding dance on its ear. While couples have long taken lessons so their first fox-trot is flawless, the ante has been upped: From groomsmen executing a perfect rendition of Michael Jackson's "Thriller" video to father-daughter dances that switch on a dime from the waltz to the Soulja Boy, newlyweds across the region and beyond are using dance to inject fun, personality, and individuality into their weddings.
Fails said couples in their 20s and 30s, who grew up on music videos and are comfortable with reality shows such as TLC's Rock the Reception, a 2008 series devoted to unconventional wedding dances, want to offer their guests an event that's unique and unforgettable.
"As our generation progresses, we become more liberated in our expression," she said. "We hold onto certain traditional values, like getting married, but as far as how it comes together, we always want something a little different for ourselves."
For one couple, Fails created a dance that incorporated "hip-hop moves, jazz, and a little Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers," to a song by R&B singer Chris Brown. For other clients, the dance lessons have doubled as bridal shower activities, allowing the entire bridal party to learn moves to perform at the reception.
While some dances are taught on the spot the day of the wedding, more elaborate performances may require five or more lessons, Fails said. Choreography and training starts at $100 - which would cover two lessons for a couple - and increases based on the size of the group and the complexity of the dance.
