We had such a wonderful experience working with Richard! As complete beginners, we were definitely nervous about learning our wedding dance, but Richard was incredibly patient, kind, and encouraging throughout the entire process. He really took the time to understand our comfort levels and our style and worked with us to create something that felt natural and true to us. We’re so thankful for all of his guidance and patience because by the time our wedding day came, we felt so much more confident and comfortable on the dance floor. We had such a special and memorable first dance, and we honestly couldn’t have done it without Richard! We’re so grateful we found him and would absolutely recommend him to anyone!
Wedding & Ballroom Dance with Richard
- 2 hires
- Based in San Francisco, CA
- 5 years in business
- 1 employee
- Background checked
About Wedding & Ballroom Dance with Richard
Hi, I’m Richard. I’m new to Thumbtack, but not to weddings—I’ve spent 5 years specializing in first dances, working with 80+ couples a year to craft something that feels personal and looks great on the floor. Wedding couples are my specialty—and my favorite. Whatever your timeline, song, or goal, I’ll give you an unforgettable experience and the tools to keep dancing together for life. My Work Flow: On the first lesson we start with basics tailored to your song, connect them to its mood and energy, then layer in solid partnering skills. My goal by the end of the first lesson is to have the leader comfortable with leading their partner through the basic steps. The next lessons will focus on creating a plan/choreography for the couple. A "entrance" making a meaningful impact at the beginning of your dance. A "middle section" that is your basic moves and making use of moments in the music create some kind of highlight. Finally a "grand finish"—a dip, lift, or a signature pose that fits you. My Teaching Style/Philosophy/Goal: 1. Goal: Chemistry and togetherness are top priorities. Whether we build full choreography or keep it relaxed, my aim is that you dance as yourselves—with confidence. 2. Style is hands-on, with precise instruction and clear feedback. 3. Philosophy is simple: "is this cool?" and "is this useful?" I won’t teach generic steps that don’t serve your goals. Who I work with: I work with absolute beginners and dancers of all levels. I will assess your level on the lesson and work with you on a dance that is at your level or just above. I want you to surpass your own expectations for yourself. I love to work with everyone no matter your genders or orientations, I curate a space inclusive to folx of all walks of life. Additional help I provide: - I can provide music editing so your song is the perfect length for a small charge of 55$ - Choosing your Song: If you're stuck between choices I can rate/compare your song(s) Based on their danceability and wow factor. I can describe to you the style of movement and the atmosphere it will create. - At the end of your lesson I can film practice videos for you to take home with you to reference. My dancing skillset: Im skilled as a ballroom and latin dancer. Besides wedding dancing, I teach Waltz, Quicksteps, Foxtrot, Tango, Cha Cha, Rumba, Samba, Jive, Salsa, Swing and more.
Reviews
We had such a wonderful experience working with Richard! As complete beginners, we were definitely nervous about learning our wedding dance, but Richard was incredibly patient, kind, and encouraging throughout the entire process. He really took the time to understand our comfort levels and our style and worked with us to create something that felt natural and true to us. We’re so thankful for all of his guidance and patience because by the time our wedding day came, we felt so much more confident and comfortable on the dance floor. We had such a special and memorable first dance, and we honestly couldn’t have done it without Richard! We’re so grateful we found him and would absolutely recommend him to anyone!
Richard is a literal magician: he got me and my fiancé, both of us with two left feet, to our wedding dance floor with a sweet and beautiful first dance choreography! The dance lessons were extremely fun, and speaks to how masterful Richard really is at teaching people at all levels how to dance, and how to dance together. He was patient, kind, hilarious, and made our dance lessons something we looked forward to. I’d emphatically recommend Richard if you’re looking to learn any type of dance, even if you have no experience. He’s the best! Thanks Richard!
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Wedding & Ballroom Dance with Richard★ 5.0
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