Everything You Need to Know About a Private Last Dance

First… What is a private last dance? A private last dance is a special moment shared between you and your new husband or wife after the reception has ended but before the grand exit takes place. The DJ or wedding coordinator will usher all the guests outside and line them up while you two share this final dance. Then, the DJ will play your song of choice, giving you one last meaningful moment from this beautiful day before your grand exit. This last dance is simply a more intimate way to end the day with your new spouse.

If you’re still not convinced, here are a few more reasons why we highly recommend private last dances for couples:

It’s a Special Private Moment

Throughout your wedding day, you’ll be surrounded by loved ones, which is a wonderful blessing—but it can also make it hard to have a quiet, personal moment with your spouse. A private last dance allows you to step away from the excitement and simply be together after the most eventful day of your life.

It Creates a Smoother Exit

Giving your guests time to set up for the grand exit and allowing photographers to adjust their cameras and flashes helps everything run more smoothly. If you’re incorporating elements like sparklers or bubbles, these will take a few minutes to distribute and prepare. Instead of standing around waiting, why not use this time intentionally to savor the last few moments of your big day?

A Great Opportunity for More Photos

Most couples deeply value their wedding photography. Throughout the day, you’ll pose, smile, and stage beautiful moments to create cherished memories. A private last dance offers a chance for candid, heartfelt photos that capture the raw emotion of the moment—images you’ll treasure for years to come.

If a private last dance doesn’t make it into your wedding day, that’s okay! However, it can be a beautiful and meaningful way to begin your journey together as newlyweds.