Lafayette West Coast Swing

Tonight Saturday May 10, 2025!

Come dance with us!

www.lafayettewcs.com/socialdance

📅 Help Us Pick the Date! 🕺💃

We're planning our next West Coast Swing Workshop + Social and want to know which date works best for YOU!

🗓️ Time: 7–11 PM
📍 Location: ReJuven8 Fitness

Which date do you prefer? 👇

✅ Saturday, May 3, 2025
✅ Saturday, May 10, 2025

Comment below and let us know! We want to pick the date that works best for most dancers. 🕺💃

Send a message to learn more

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who came out for our West Coast Swing Workshop + Social Dance on Saturday, January 25, 2025! 🎉

We’re especially grateful to Byron Bellew and Tammy Duke Bellew for sharing their time and expertise—they did an amazing job!

This was our third social dance, and we hit a new record with 41 attendees!

We know the bad weather and snow made it tough for some to attend or stay the whole time, and we also noticed some areas where I (Cung Thang) as a host could make the experience even better.

That’s why we’re making some exciting changes for our next social dance (around April / May 2025)!

✅ New venue! More than double the space with a great AC system for a more comfortable dance experience.

✅ New format! To give everyone the best learning experience, we’re adjusting the structure:

🔹 1-hour Intermediate Workshop (for those who already know the 4-5 basic WCS patterns)

🔹 1-hour Beginner Class (to give new dancers more time to learn and feel confident)

🔹 2 hours of social dancing!

We want to make sure everyone gets the most out of our events, whether you're brand new or have been dancing for a while.

This new format gives beginners more time to learn, while intermediate dancers can keep growing their skills—and then we all come together for social dancing! 🎶

We're really excited to try this out and keep improving the experience for everyone.

Stay tuned for details on the next social dance—we can’t wait to dance with you all again soon! 💃🕺✨

(Group photo is from the dancers who stayed till the very end of the night at 10:59 PM)

How to Ask a Woman to Dance: Tips for Men in Lafayette, Louisiana

Partner dancing is a great way to connect with others, have fun, and build confidence.

However, going out and asking someone to dance, especially if you don’t know anyone, can feel intimidating.

This guide is packed with practical tips to help you navigate the process, make meaningful connections, and enjoy your time on the dance floor.

1. Choosing the Right Environment

Where you choose to go, and thus ask someone to dance… has a big impact on your experience.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

- Dedicated Dance Studios / Dance Halls:

These are ideal for partner dancing.

Everyone is there with the shared purpose of dancing, which makes it easier to approach others.

Examples include dance studios and events specifically for styles like West Coast Swing, Country Swing, Cajun, Zydeco, Salsa, etc.

- Bars and Live Music Events:

These can be trickier.

Not everyone is there to dance, and it can be harder to identify who’s open to dancing.

At live Zydeco or Cajun music events, for instance, many people stand near the stage to listen rather than dance.

When you go to a bar, nightclub, or live music venue late at night, the people working at the front desk or handling tickets may not always seem welcoming.

This is often because they deal with rowdy or drunk crowds, which can be stressful.

It’s not personal, and understanding this dynamic can help you approach them with kindness.

Greet them politely and thank them when they let you in the venue—a little warmth can go a long way.

Why This Matters:

Choosing the right environment can set you up for success. In dance-specific venues, rejections are less likely, and it’s easier to find people who want to engage in partner dancing.

2. Observing and Understanding the Crowd (Reading the Room)

Take a moment to assess the social dynamic before diving in:

Look for approachable people:

Focus on those who are tapping their feet, paying attention to the music, actively dancing, or standing next to the dance floor.

These are clear signs that they may be open to dancing with you.

Know who to avoid:

Don’t ask people who are sitting down far away from the dance floor / stage, glued to their phones, look disengaged, or seem uninterested in the music / dancing.

They’re less likely to want to dance and will probably tell you no.

Demographics matter:

Young adults (18-30s) may see partner dancing as more of a romantic activity and thus may think you’re trying to hit on them.

Older folks in their 50s, 60s, and 70s, often view it as a fun social activity and have likely grown up partner dancing themselves.

I recommend asking the older ladies to dance first, having a good time with them, and then you can ask some of the younger ladies to dance as well.

Asking a woman to dance:

When you’ve found the person you’d like to dance with, simply walk up to them, extend one hand palms up, and ask:

“Would you like to dance?”

3. Approaching Groups of Women

When asking someone to dance, especially in a group setting, context is everything:

Couples:

If you want to dance with someone who appears to be there with their boyfriend / husband, always address the guy first.

Politely ask for his permission by saying something like, “Would it be okay if I asked her to dance?”

This shows respect and avoids any awkwardness.

Also, only ask to dance with their partner, if you have already seen them dancing with others.

Groups with a Guy Present:

In many cases, the guy in a group of women acts as a social barrier or protector.

His presence signals that he’s looking out for the group.

Start by striking up a conversation with him first.

For example, say, “How’s it going man? I love this band – have you heard them before?”

If he responds positively, you can ask, “Would it be okay if I asked one of your friends to dance?”

This builds trust and makes the women in the group feel more comfortable.

Why This Matters:

Respecting group dynamics and acknowledging the presence of protective friends or partners shows that you’re thoughtful and respectful, which increases the likelihood of getting a yes, or at least avoiding rejection.

4. Choosing the Right Moment

Timing can make all the difference when asking someone to dance:

Ask early in the song:

Approach someone within the first 30-45 seconds.

Most people decide whether to sit out or join in during this window.

Waiting too long can make it awkward or lead to missed opportunities.

Avoid asking at the end of a song:

Most ladies determine whether or not they want to dance, largely in part to how much they like the song.

If you ask someone to dance before the next song has started, they’re less likely to say yes – unless they’re already familiar with you and have danced with you before.

Approach from the front or side:

Avoid catching someone off guard by ensuring they can see you when you ask.

Don’t approach anyone from behind.

5. Making the Most of the Dance

Once someone says yes, focus on making the experience enjoyable for both of you:

Start simple:

Gauge your partner’s skill level with basic moves before trying anything more advanced.

Communicate through body language:

Smile and maintain a light, open posture. This creates a positive connection.

Adapt to their style:

Start with the footwork you know, however if your partner isn’t following your lead, or if your partner’s footwork differs from what you expect, don’t try to force them to follow.

Instead, adjust to their rhythm and flow.

Avoid teaching or criticizing:

Even if your partner makes mistakes, resist the urge to offer unsolicited advice.

Focus on enjoying the dance rather than correcting them.

Thank them graciously:

If a lady asks you to dance, make sure to thank her afterward.

Say something like, “Thank you for asking! Feel free to ask me again anytime.”

This encourages her to approach you in the future and fosters a welcoming environment.

Read nonverbal cues:

After dancing with a few people, you may notice someone (who you’ve already danced with) looking at you as an indication they’d like to dance again.

Take this as a subtle invitation to ask them again.

Why This Matters:

A positive dance experience makes your partner more likely to dance with you again and speak positively about you to others.

Women tend to go out in groups with their friends, so if the first woman in a group enjoys her dance with you, she’ll likely recommend her friends to dance with you as well.

6. Dance Etiquette and Safety

Good manners on the dance floor ensure everyone has a great time:

Respect boundaries:

Never attempt dips, lifts, or complex tricks unless the woman has let you know she’d like to try them with you.

Many people have shoulder injuries / neck and back pain which you’ll likely not be aware of.

End with gratitude:

A simple “Thank you for the dance” or a friendly two handed high-five is a great way to conclude the interaction.

Avoid mentioning her physical appearance:

No matter how beautiful you might think a woman is, don’t mention it in the middle of a dance.

You’ll likely make her feel awkward, and she’ll probably walk away from you in the middle of the dance.

Why This Matters:

Being respectful and safe helps build trust and a good reputation in the dance community.

7. Preparing Yourself: Appearance and Attitude

Your appearance and demeanor play a big role in how approachable you are:

Dress appropriately:

Wear clean, fitted clothes and closed-toed shoes suitable for dancing.

Avoid sunglasses, hoods, or anything that obscures your face.

If you’re at a country bar, cowboy boots and hats are fine, but avoid bringing baseball caps and wearing them backwards (many venues explicitly don’t allow people with these to enter).

Stay fresh:

Shower, use deodorant, bring mints if you have them, and avoid wearing cologne.

8. Navigating Social Interactions

Build confidence and rapport with these tips:

Warm up socially:

Interact positively with people throughout your day and at the venue.

A simple “Hi” or “Thank you” to staff and other attendees can set the tone.

Engage with regulars:

Compliment someone you see dancing well and start a casual conversation.

This can lead to introductions and help you get more dances.

Avoid problematic conversations:

Stay away from anyone making inappropriate or vulgar comments.

Associating with negative behavior can harm your reputation.

9. Alcohol and Dancing

Drinking can help you feel a little more confident, but should not be excessive:

Stick to light drinks:

A beer or single drink is fine, but avoid hard liquor or taking multiple shots of tequila.

Don’t get drunk:

Alcohol impairs coordination and rhythm, making you a less effective dancer. Good dancers know their limits.

Bring cash:

Most venues charge a cover fee (between $10-$20), and paying in cash can help you avoid opening a tab at the bar and forgetting your credit card.

10. Final Encouragement

Dancing is about connection, joy, and shared experiences. It’s normal to feel nervous at first, but with practice and a positive attitude, you’ll find it easier to step onto the floor and ask someone to dance.

In the right venue, most people are there to have fun, just like you.

So take a deep breath, smile, and enjoy the music—your next great dance is just one question away.

https://www.lafayettewcs.com/blog/how-to-ask-a-woman-to-dance-tips-for-men-in-lafayette-louisiana/

Thanks for reading!

How to Make Friends When You Don’t Know Anyone Yet

Walking into a dance class or social event where you don’t know a single person can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: West Coast Swing (WCS) is one of the most welcoming dance communities out there. It’s built around connection—both on and off the dance floor. If you’re shy, introverted, or just not sure how to break the ice, don’t worry. Here’s how to make friends, even when you’re starting with a room full of strangers.

1. Start with a Smile
A smile is the easiest way to let people know you’re approachable. When you arrive, smile at people and say a simple “hi.” Most dancers remember what it’s like to be new and will be more than happy to welcome you.

2. Join the Partner Rotation
In group classes, WCS often uses a rotation where you switch partners every few minutes. This is your golden opportunity to introduce yourself and meet new people without feeling awkward. A simple “Hi, I’m [your name], nice to meet you!” goes a long way.

3. Say Yes to Dances
At social dances, saying “yes” when someone asks you to dance is a great way to connect. Even if you’re nervous or just starting out, most dancers will appreciate your willingness to try. After the dance, you can strike up a quick chat:

“How long have you been dancing WCS?”
“What’s your favorite song to dance to?”

These small interactions build connections over time.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Someone to Dance
You don’t have to wait to be asked—go for it! Asking someone to dance is easy:

Walk up and say, “Would you like to dance?”
Keep it light and friendly. Most people will say yes.

If someone declines, don’t take it personally—just smile and move on to the next person.

5. Stick Around After Class or Socials
Some of the best friendships are formed off the dance floor. After class or a social dance, stick around for a few minutes to chat. You can:

Thank people you danced with.
Compliment their dancing: “You were really fun to dance with!”
Join group conversations that are already happening.
6. Attend Regularly
The more often you show up, the more familiar you’ll become to the community. People will start recognizing you, and friendships will happen naturally over time.

Pro tip: Showing up regularly makes asking someone to dance (or being asked) much easier because you become part of the familiar crowd.

7. Volunteer or Help Out
Many dance events and classes rely on volunteers to set up and keep things running smoothly. Offer to help, and you’ll quickly get to know the organizers and other regulars. It’s a great way to feel like part of the community.

8. Be Patient With Yourself
Building friendships takes time, especially when you’re stepping out of your comfort zone. Give yourself credit for showing up and trying something new—you’re already doing great! The more you dance and the more people you meet, the easier it will get.

Why West Coast Swing is Perfect for Making Friends
West Coast Swing is more than a dance—it’s a community. It’s about connection, conversation, and having fun with others, no matter your skill level. Whether you’re introverted, outgoing, or somewhere in between, you’ll find people who are there for the same reason: to enjoy the music, socialize, and share a great dance.

So, take a deep breath, put on your dance shoes, and show up—you’ll be surprised how quickly strangers become friends.

https://www.lafayettewcs.com/blog/how-to-make-friends-when-you-dont-know-anyone-yet/

Thanks for reading!

🎄 Looking for a last-minute Christmas gift? 🎁

How about something fun and meaningful?

You can now schedule private West Coast Swing dance lessons—either at a dance studio or right in the comfort of your home.

It’s super easy to book! Just head over to www.LafayetteWCS.com/privatelessons and pick a time that works for you.

This is a great gift for anyone who loves to dance or wants to try something new (and yes, it can be a gift for yourself too).

Let’s make this holiday season a little more fun—see you on the dance floor! 🕺💃

Thank you guys so much for coming to the social last night! Jordan and I really appreciated y’all being there!

Also a big thank you to Bryan Jordan Dance for coming out and teaching us last night! And thank you to our out of town dancers who came all the way from New Orleans and Baton Rouge!

We’ll be planning our next workshop + social dance tentatively around January with Byron & Tammy (Fleur De Dance) from New Orleans so hope you guys can make it then! - Chung Thang

Hey everyone, quick reminder that we have a workshop and social dance tonight at PARC Village with special guest instructor Bryan Jordan Dance!

Tonight’s Lesson Plan:
7 - 8 PM: Beginner / Intermediate Workshop
8 - 8:30 PM: Intro Class (Beginners)
8:30 - 11 PM: Social Dancing

If you haven’t gotten tickets already you can do so at https://lafayettewcs.com/socialdance

(Walk ins are also welcome, and you can get tickets at the door - Cash, Card, or Venmo)

Address for PARC Village is: 2323 Moss St, Lafayette, LA 70501

See y’all tonight!

Hey everyone, quick reminder that we have classes tonight at PARC Village!

This will be our last “regular weekly WCS class” in 2024.

If you’ve always wanted to come try it, this is your chance to come dance WCS with us before we focus on the Country Swing & Line Dancing nights (launching in Dec 2024)!

Tonight’s Lesson Plan:

5:00 - 5:30 PM: Free Class (Intro to West Coast Swing)

5:30 - 6:30 PM: Level 1 Class

6:30 - 7:30 PM: Level 2 Class

Walk-ins are welcome as always however if you’d like to save on classes, you can register online at https://lafayettewcs.com/

See y’all soon!