The timeline varies based on your starting point, practice frequency, and goals. Most students grasp fundamental steps and basic rhythm within 6-8 weekly sessions. This includes understanding posture, basic footwork, and simple combinations. However, developing smooth execution and musicality typically requires 3-4 months of consistent practice.

For wedding couples preparing their first dance, an 8-week programme usually provides enough time to create a confident, personalized routine. Competitive dancers or those pursuing advanced techniques should expect 6-12 months to build solid foundations. I provide structured progression plans and practice materials to support learning between sessions.

No prior experience is necessary. I work with complete beginners regularly, starting from absolute basics like rhythm recognition and body awareness. Many students begin with no dance background and progress to confident social dancers or performers. The key is willingness to learn and regular practice.

First sessions focus on building comfort with movement, understanding music structure, and establishing proper posture. I adjust teaching pace to match your learning speed and physical capabilities. Whether you're 18 or 65, starting fresh or returning after years away, the approach is tailored to your individual situation and objectives.

Wear comfortable clothing that allows free movement - fitted athletic wear, leggings, or loose trousers work well. Avoid jeans or restrictive fabrics. For footwear, bring clean trainers with non-marking soles for contemporary or jazz, or leather-soled shoes for ballroom and Latin styles. Many students keep dedicated dance shoes once they commit to regular lessons.

Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during sessions. If you have long hair, tie it back securely. For first lessons, regular athletic shoes are perfectly acceptable while you determine which style interests you most. I can recommend specific footwear suppliers in London once you've chosen your focus area.

Private lessons offer one-on-one attention with curriculum designed specifically for your goals, skill level, and learning pace. Sessions run 60 or 90 minutes and allow detailed technique correction, faster progression, and flexible scheduling. This format suits wedding couples, performers preparing for specific events, or students wanting intensive skill development.

Group classes accommodate 6-12 participants at similar skill levels, creating social learning environments. These 75-minute sessions follow structured curricula over 8-week terms, covering specific styles or skill levels. Group settings provide partner rotation opportunities and lower per-session costs, making them ideal for social dancers or those exploring dance as a hobby.

I perform at corporate events, weddings, private parties, charity galas, and theatrical productions across London and surrounding areas. Corporate bookings often include product launches, annual celebrations, or conference entertainment. Wedding performances range from elegant ballroom showcases during receptions to choreographed routines with the wedding party.

Each performance is customized to match your event atmosphere, venue size, and audience demographic. I can perform solo pieces, partner routines, or coordinate group performances. Technical requirements like sound systems, lighting, and stage dimensions are assessed during planning to ensure smooth execution. Performance duration typically ranges from 3-minute showcases to 15-minute sets.

For regular lessons, booking 1-2 weeks ahead secures preferred time slots, though I sometimes accommodate same-week requests depending on schedule availability. Wedding couples should start 3-4 months before their date to allow adequate preparation time without stress. This timeline includes choreography creation, practice sessions, and refinement.

Performance bookings require 6-8 weeks minimum for custom choreography development, music selection, and rehearsal. Popular dates like December holidays or summer wedding season fill quickly, so booking 3-4 months ahead is recommended. Last-minute bookings within 2-3 weeks may be possible for standard repertoire pieces, subject to availability and existing commitments.

Yes, custom choreography is a core service. I work with your chosen music, analyzing tempo, structure, and emotional tone to create movements that enhance the song's character. For weddings, this means your first dance reflects your relationship and musical preferences. For performances, choreography aligns with event themes and audience expectations.

The process begins with consultation about your vision, skill level, and any specific elements you want included. I then develop choreography in stages, teaching and refining sections during sessions. You receive video recordings of the routine for practice between meetings. Typical custom pieces require 4-6 sessions to learn and polish, depending on complexity and your experience level.

Cancellations or rescheduling requests made 24 hours or more before your scheduled session incur no penalty, and we'll find an alternative time that suits your schedule. This policy recognizes that unexpected situations arise while maintaining fair scheduling for all students.

Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice, or missed sessions without notification, are charged at full rate as the time slot cannot be filled on short notice. Emergency situations like sudden illness or family emergencies are handled individually with flexibility. For package bookings, unused sessions remain valid for 6 months from purchase date, providing reasonable flexibility for busy schedules.

I work primarily with adults and teenagers aged 14 and above. This age range allows for more sophisticated technique instruction and the physical coordination required for advanced movements. Lessons for teenagers often focus on building confidence, performance skills, or preparing for school productions and competitions.

Adult students range from university age to retirees, each with different goals - some pursue social dancing, others prepare for specific events, and many simply enjoy movement and music. Teaching approaches vary by age group, with younger students often progressing faster physically while older students bring better focus and musicality. All age groups benefit from structured, patient instruction tailored to their capabilities.

Regular lessons take place at a dedicated studio space in Wandsworth, easily accessible via public transport with nearby parking available. The studio features sprung wooden floors, full-length mirrors, professional sound system, and climate control for comfortable year-round practice. The space accommodates both private lessons and small group classes.

For wedding couples or those with mobility constraints, I offer home visits within Greater London, provided you have adequate space (minimum 3x3 metres clear floor area) and suitable flooring. Additional travel fees apply for locations outside the SW17 area. Corporate choreography sessions can be conducted at your office or event venue if appropriate facilities are available.

I accept bank transfers, cash, and major credit/debit cards. Private lessons are priced at £65 per hour or £90 for 90-minute sessions. Package deals offer better value: 5-session blocks at £300 or 10-session blocks at £580. Group classes run £18 per session or £130 for 8-week terms when paid upfront.

Performance fees vary based on event type, duration, travel distance, and whether custom choreography is required. Basic solo performances start at £350 for up to 5 minutes. Wedding choreography packages including 6 private lessons and performance attendance begin at £480. Detailed quotes are provided after initial consultation to ensure pricing matches your specific requirements. Payment for lessons is due at time of booking, while performance deposits of 30% secure your date with balance due one week before the event.