Social Graces
Please Consider these Social Graces.
We want our dance to be enjoyable for everyone and give opportunities for all to dance with a variety of people. In other words, this special event is not meant to be a "date night" and we will be changing partners throughout the evening. (Exceptions for married and engaged couples.) If you come with a group, remember to also stretch outside of that boundary and meet new friends!
There are usually more ladies than gentlemen. Because of that, it's perfectly fine for a lady to take the place of a gentleman and dance with another lady. We have even been told by young ladies that it can be just as fun to dance with each other. There's no reason, however, for our gentlemen to be dancing together. Gentlemen have the privilege of a greater responsibility at this type of function, in that they get to make sure all the ladies have an opportunity to dance and are having a good time. If a gentleman needs a partner, he'll be encouraged by our team to find a lady to ask to dance.
Gentlemen
It is important that you see that all the ladies have the opportunity to dance. This is very much appreciated.
If you see ladies standing on the side waiting to be asked to dance, please ask one.
Do not monopolize any single lady.
Ladies
If you choose not to accept a dance, decline politely.
If you want to sit out a dance or already have a partner, but you don’t mind if a gentleman asks you later, you should tell him.
Please be gracious, because it is not always easy to ask you to dance.
Dress Code
Please read this update to our dress code policies:
Because we want everyone to be safe, comfortable, and enjoy their evening, we will be enforcing the following dress code. Although many of our attendees do a wonderful job with their attire, recently we’ve been having more issues. Please be aware that moving forward we’ll do our best to address those with attire that doesn’t align with our requirements, whether that means a conversation and quick fix, adding something like a sweater or leggings to an inappropriate dress, requiring an individual to have their outfit approved in order to attend future events etc. If you have any questions about an outfit you’d like to wear, please never hesitate to reach out!
Dress code applies to everyone in the ballroom.
Morning Practice:
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that allow for easy movement. Any shorts need to be at least fingertip length, and no sleeveless shirts or crop tops please.
Evening Ball:
This dance requires semi-formal to formal attire. If you are in doubt, err on the formal side.
Gentlemen
Long-sleeved dress shirt
A tie is appropriate (not required)
A dress jacket or vest may be added for a complete outfit.
Dress slacks - formal, not tight (no jeans)
Kilts with kilt socks are a very welcome sight too!
Only hats that can be formally dressed, please. (i.e. no ball caps or costume hats)
Ladies
The goal is to have a dress that is easy to move in, with a full (wide) skirt, that is not too tight or restrictive, which fully allows you to enjoy the event. You'll often be skipping and moving quickly!
No “sheath” or overtly form fitting (tight) dresses.
Dresses are to be mid-calf or longer so that they do not drag on the floor. This point is extra important as you or others could easily trip over, or tear your dress if your skirt is too long!
Any slits must not come above the knee.
No low back dresses.
Dresses must come up to your underarms on the sides.
Make sure that the dress is high enough in the front so that no cleavage shows. We do not allow dresses that plunge lower than armpit level. You can always wear a cardigan or the like if you choose.
Dresses need to have at least one secure strap. You are moving a lot, and we want you to be comfortable.
Wear comfortable shoes that you're able to dance in. No shoes are fine too! Heels are not ideal for this kind of dancing, but you can always wear them and bring something else to change into!
If there are any mishaps with your dress, chaperones will be happy to help you if needed. There will be safety pins, thread, ribbon, etc. available for your use if needed.