I usually don’t mention this to the couple until just before the first dance but i think it would be appreciated known well in advance – going by the relief I see on a lot of grooms’ faces!
The usual procedure when Wonderland perform your first song is as follows:
When you are ready I will announce “Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome onto the dancefloor for their first dance – Mr & Mrs …..”;
after one minute or so I then ask the top table / bridal party to join you;
after another minute I then invite the rest of your guests.
This ensures a full dancefloor at the start of the reception and also takes any pressure off you to be dancing alone for 3 or 4 minutes!
This is not set in stone – some of our couples want their first dance to be theirs alone, which we will obviously respect. And on a few occasions the couple have actually choreographed a whole dance routine for their chosen first song! A great start to the night.
