How Many Wedding Dance Lessons Do You Really Need? (Honest Answer Inside)
I could tell you "as many as possible!" and sell you a 20-lesson package. But that's not how I operate. Here's the real answer based on hundreds of couples I've taught.
Every week, couples ask me this question at my Montreal wedding dance studio. And every time, my answer starts the same way: "It depends." But don't worry—I'll give you actual numbers.
📊 The Quick Reference Chart
| Your Situation | Recommended Lessons |
|---|---|
| Complete beginners, simple dance | 4-6 lessons |
| Complete beginners, polished routine | 6-8 lessons |
| Some dance experience, choreography | 4-6 lessons |
| Experienced dancers, complex routine | 3-5 lessons |
| Last-minute (2 weeks or less) | 2-3 intensive lessons |
🎯 What Determines Your Magic Number?
Factor 1: Your Dance Background
Be honest with yourself. If you've got rhythm and have danced at clubs or weddings before, you're starting ahead. If you describe yourself as having "two left feet," budget for a couple extra lessons.
Factor 2: Your Goals
- "Just don't embarrass ourselves" = 3-4 lessons
- "We want to look elegant" = 5-6 lessons
- "We want to impress our guests" = 6-8 lessons
- "We want to go viral" = 8-10+ lessons
Factor 3: Your Song Choice
A slow ballad is more forgiving. A fast-tempo song with beat changes? You'll need more practice time to nail the timing.
Factor 4: Home Practice
This is the secret multiplier. Couples who practice 15-20 minutes at home between lessons need HALF as many lessons as those who don't. Seriously.
💰 Let's Talk Money (Real Numbers)
At Quartier Latin and most reputable Montreal studios, private wedding dance lessons typically run $80-120 per hour.
Here's what you're looking at:
- Basic package (4 lessons): $320-480
- Standard package (6 lessons): $480-720
- Premium package (8 lessons): $640-960
Compare that to your photographer ($3,000+), catering ($15,000+), or venue ($5,000+). Your first dance is one of the most photographed, videoed, and remembered moments of your day—at a fraction of those costs.
⚠️ When You Might Need MORE Lessons
- One partner is significantly more skilled than the other (leveling up takes time)
- You want to include lifts or dips (safety first!)
- Your song has multiple tempo changes
- You're planning a surprise routine
- You can't practice at home between lessons
⚡ When You Can Get Away With FEWER Lessons
- Both partners have natural rhythm
- You'll practice religiously at home
- You want a simple, elegant dance (no bells and whistles)
- Your song is slow and forgiving
- You're both comfortable performing in front of people
💡 Pro Tip: The First Lesson Test
Don't commit to a big package upfront. Book a single lesson first. A good instructor will honestly assess where you are and recommend a realistic number of lessons.
If someone immediately tries to upsell you on 15 lessons without ever seeing you dance? Red flag. Walk away.
Ready to Find Your Number?
At Quartier Latin, we'll give you an honest assessment in your first (free) consultation. No sales pressure, no inflated packages.
Book your free consultation and let's figure out the perfect plan for your wedding dance.
— Alina, Founder of Quartier Latin Dance Studio
