We would like for all to have a good time dancing !

To help your fellow dancers have a good time, please keep the following in mind.:

• Lessons and dances work best if dancers rotate partners so that everyone gets a chance to dance. Dancing with one partner the entire evening it not the best way to learn social dancing, but if that is what you prefer, that is o.k. too.
• For many people, particularly beginners, being declined for a dance can be difficult, therefore, declining a dance should be avoided under most circumstances. The only acceptable ways of declining a dance are (a) you are sitting out the dance for a rest, (b) you do not know the dance, or (c) you have promised the dance to someone else. If while sitting the dance out, someone comes along and asks you to dance, just say the next dance.
• Leading and following: It is perfectly acceptable to ask anyone for a dance. Of course, some just can do the following and some can just do the leading and some can lead and follow. So sort it out with your partner on preferences. We are all here to dance.
• There is no smoking in the building.
• Do take a shower before the dance. Some people have come to the dance after work or other sweaty activity and not taken and shower and smelling as a result. Take the time to take a shower. Your partner will appreciate it.
• Sweat soaked Attire:  Bringing an extra shirt or dress is advisable. Many dancers that tend to become very sweaty, have learned to bring that extra shirt or dress to change into during dance. This to avoid your partner feeling awkward touching sweat soaked tops or shirts.
• Perfumes and Fragrances: Heavy use may cause some people that are allergic to them to become uncomfortable. Minimize the perfume and fragrances.
• Avoid any accessories that may snag or injure a partner such as belt buckles, long necklaces, big rings, or brooches.  Please be aware of hygiene and bad breath.
• We welcome dancers of all levels, from beginners to experienced. We ask experienced dancers to welcome newcomers and help them learn. Foremost, be kind and do not criticize. (meaning do not give instructions while doing a social dance. Do not tell someone how a move should be done, if not done right).
• Food and beverages should be kept off the dance floor. O.k. at the sidelines where there is usually a table nearby to place food and drinks.
• On the dance floor, the line of dance is counterclockwise around the perimeter of the floor (Waltz, Foxtrot and many other dances move along a line of dance in the perimeter of the dance area. The stationary dances ( East Coast, West coast swing, Balboa/Swing, Salsa, cha-cha, etc. ) towards the center of the line of dance. Be aware of other peoples’ areas of dance.
• It is the leader’s responsibility to avoid mishaps and to make his partner look good on the dance floor.
• Aerials and choreography should be avoided on the social dance floor, particularly when the floor is crowded. Aerials require training by a qualified instructor and should only be attempted by individuals who have had proper training.
• Never blame a partner for missed executions or other mishaps. The better dancer bears a greater responsibility and accepting the blame is always welcome. Better dancers should always dance at the level of their partners.
• Make sure your partner enjoys the dance and thank them at the end of the dance.
• Shoes: Street shoes of any kind is not recommended, because they carry dirt, grease, grits and other things not good for the floor finish. Please wear smooth soled shoes or shoes specifically made for dancing
• Introduce yourself to new people, dance, smile and have a terrific time.
• If you have any comments or suggestions, please tell the dance manager. We welcome suggestions or concerns. Contact LetsSwingNJ@gmail.com