The Evolution Of The Viral Video Wedding Dance

A sedate two-step to “At Last?” Forget it. Go to a wedding nowadays and you’re likely to see the Napoleon Dynamite wedding dance, the Saturday Night Fever recreation, the Footloose number…and the ante is only getting upped:

Personally, I intend to make my wedding party learn the entire “Barn-Raising” from Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, complete with axe-throw. (It has the added benefit of not involving the bridal couple at all!) They don’t know this yet. But they’ll do it and like it, because nowadays, that’s what you sign on for! Whether it’s the happy couple busting out a choreographed pas de deux or an elaborate group set-piece, this is the brave new standard for the modern reception.

There are a number of videos on YouTube claiming to be the “original” wedding “Thriller.” (Which is really academic, because the idea came from 13 Going on 30. Via, you know, Michael Jackson.) It set the bar high in terms of wedding-party commitment.

Sometimes you see a wedding dance that just makes you feel like soulmates do exist, and this couple has found them.

The “suprise” dance has become increasingly common: a number that starts out like a conventional first dance and then – “wha?” – suddenly morphs into another routine.

The Dirty Dancing is a popular choice amongst those brides marrying extremely good sports. There are a number on YouTube, but I thought this couple got bonus points for their costumes, their attempt at the lift, and the groom’s commitment. Sadly, the wedding party doesn’t seem to have magically learned the “Cuban rhythm” the way the Kellerman’s staff does.

The Soul Train line is a natural for group numbers, providing an excellent opportunity both for impressive organizational commitment and individual expression.

And finally, the processional that gave new meaning to the words “wedding rehearsal” and redefined what it means to agree to be an attendant: