We know taking the dance floor for the ceremonial first dance as husband and wife can be as nail-biting an activity as meeting the in-laws. Everyone you’ve invited will be watching and if you’re stepping on your bride’s white shoes or counting, “ONE, two, three, ONE, two, three,” you’ll be hearing your wife’s whimpers and the crowd’s snickers.

As they say in the old commercials, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. You might not end up starring on Broadway, but by using these resources you’ll be able impress your guests with your fancy footwork.

Here are a few tips to make your experience easier and more enjoyable.

1. Start early.

Give yourself enough time to learn without being rushed. Don’t wait ‘til the last minute to find and book the teacher. It might be one of the things you suggest during the preliminary planning stages.

2. Convenience is key.

Find a studio that’s near your office or on your way home from work. Nothing can diffuse your initial enthusiasm for learning new moves like having to rush out of work only to sit in traffic on your way to a lesson.

3. Learn more than one move.

The first dance can take four lessons or more depending on the complexity of your dance. It might be worthwhile to learn more than just that basic box step. If you plan to throw off your shoes and dance all night, it won’t hurt to learn a few more steps. Ballroomdancers.com suggests the following: salsa, swing or a country-western line dance, most studios offer a wide variety of styles tailored to fit your cultural background.

4. Embarrass yourself in front of strangers.

There are advantages to taking a group class. It might help you remember that you’re not the only person who’s never had to dance in front of so many people. Sharing that initial nervousness might lead to you being more comfortable when the time comes to perform.

5. One more time.

It only takes a little extra practice to make the lessons look good. Practice once a week besides the lesson itself.