First Dance STL
Wedding dance choreography and private lessons in St. Louis
First Dance STL specializes in private dance lessons tailored to you, whether you're preparing for your wedding or developing your dancing skills from scratch.
Before your first class
Very welcoming to complete non-dancers; the studio is built around private, step-by-step instruction tailored to your level.
Street parking available right by the front door.
About this studio
First Dance STL specializes in private dance lessons tailored to you, whether you're preparing for your wedding or developing your dancing skills from scratch. The studio is run by Dawn Gilbertson, who choreographs and teaches wedding dances custom-fit to your style and song choice. Her approach is patient and practical: she teaches the steps, records you so you can practise between sessions, and meets with you again to ensure you have it right.
The studio space is located on Washington Ave in Grand Center, with lots of space and street parking right by the front door. It's positioned near other businesses including High/Low coffee and Turn restaurant, making it easy to combine your lesson with a bite to eat.
Wedding dance lessons are private and catered to both partners. Most clients find that 1–2 lessons in the month before the wedding works best, though you're welcome to start with one lesson and add more as needed. First Dance STL also offers additional lessons for the mother or father of the bride or groom. The studio works flexibly around your schedule: most Sundays work well (morning, afternoon or evening), and weekday evenings are available too.
Reviews consistently highlight how welcoming and encouraging Dawn is with nervous couples or complete non-dancers. Clients report feeling far more confident after their lessons, and many say their guests gave them great compliments on the day.
What to expect
Your first visit
You'll meet with Dawn for a private session in the studio space on Washington Ave. She'll discuss your song choice and style, teach you a choreographed combination that fits your strengths, and record the session so you can practise at home. A follow-up meeting before your wedding ensures you have the dance polished.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Dawn Gilbertson is the owner and instructor. She specializes in wedding dance choreography and private lessons, and is known for her patient, encouraging approach and ability to adapt choreography to suit your circumstances and confidence level.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Very welcoming to complete non-dancers; the studio is built around private, step-by-step instruction tailored to your level.
Studio history
First Dance STL was founded in 2008 and is based in the Grand Center neighbourhood on Washington Ave.
Styles offered
1 dance style taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Amenities
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
First Dance STLhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own First Dance STL, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about First Dance STL
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does First Dance STL teach?
First Dance STL teaches General. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is First Dance STL located?
First Dance STL is located in St. Louis, MO. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does First Dance STL offer private lessons?
Contact First Dance STL directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does First Dance STL teach kids and adults?
First Dance STL welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at First Dance STL?
The fastest path is to visit First Dance STL via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.
Is there parking at First Dance STL?
Street parking available right by the front door.