First dances get all the hype—but private last dances are where some of the sweetest wedding-day memories are made. Read what couples have to say about their choice to take one final spin.

Mandy Spadine & Jiles Wolever
May 28, 2022

Mandy Spadine regards her and husband Jiles Wolever’s last dance as even better than their first. “There are sweet memories that come from both, but the first dance comes with so much build up from the ceremony, the reception entrance, and the attention of all your guests, that it can be hard for it to feel like an intimate moment,” says the bride, who was grateful for the chance to share their first moment alone as Mr. and Mrs. The newlyweds, who swayed to Carly Pearce’s rendition of “Cowboy Take Me Away” at the close of their Hotel Vin reception, viewed their debut dance as a way for guests to celebrate with them, while the second go-round held deeper meaning. “The last dance, to me, is symbolic of the relationship with your significant other,” says Jiles. “You will always have your friends and family in your life but ultimately, it’s only going to be the two of you on this journey of marriage.” —Kiernan McCormick

Reagan Turner & Blake Stricker
June 4, 2022

Reagan Turner remembers her first dance with her new husband, Blake Stricker, as filled with adrenaline from the day before and excitement for what the night had in store. But when the couple shared an intimate last dance at the end of their Adolphus reception, Reagan says those feelings were replaced with gratitude and sheer joy. “We slow-danced with my head on his shoulder and tried to take in the entire night,” says Reagan, who chose “10,000 Hours” by Dan & Shay and Justin Bieber for the evening-ending ritual. “It was the most perfect, chaotic day that we got to end with the perfect, private moment. It truly solidified the best day ever.” The move to partake in a private last dance is a relatively recent phenomenon—and one this bride encourages others to incorporate into their plans. Says Reagan: “Your last private dance is the most intimate and love-filled moment you’ll ever experience with your husband that you will never forget.” —Emma McRae

Margo Edwards & Logan Lubke
March 19, 2022

Margo Edwards and Logan Lubke’s last dance transported them back to their college days, as they two-stepped to “Diamond in My Pocket” by Cody Johnson. “We both love Cody Johnson, and he used to play in our college town when we were in school and first started dating,” says Margo. It was the couple’s planner, Kristin Butler of Fabulous Fete, who suggested they partake in this trend. “After a long evening of celebrating with family and friends, it was very special to end the night with just Margo and I dancing alone to one of our favorite songs,” Logan remembers. For both the bride and groom, their final moment on the dance floor at Arlington Hall provided an opportunity to let loose without the pressure of spectators. “[During] our first dance, we were nervous and had a lot of people watching us. We wanted to make sure we were dancing perfectly,” Margo says. “[During] the last dance, we were much more relaxed and genuinely just having fun.” —K.M.