ELAINE ANDERSON DANCE

Elaine Anderson is a queer-affirming wedding dance teacher that helps couples create first dances that feel true to who they are. After years in ballroom and teaching wedding dances, Elaine saw how few spaces celebrated queer love stories, and she set out to change that by offering instruction grounded in authenticity, connection, and joy. Through in-person lessons, virtual coaching, and customized video choreography for couples around the world, she’s building a space where every partnership is honored and every love story gets to shine. We spoke with Elaine to learn more about what inspired her work, how she supports couples in feeling confident and seen, and what’s next for her growing community.

What inspired you to create (or get involved with) your dance group or project?
I have been ballroom dancing for over a decade, and partner dancing is truly my passion. When I started teaching wedding dance years ago, I noticed a real lack of queer representation in the wedding dance world and in ballroom in general.
I wanted to change that and create a safe and affirming space where queer couples could learn a dance that feels authentic to their relationship. For some couples, that means skipping the traditional leader and follower roles and instead creating movement that reflects their unique dynamic.
At first, I focused on teaching in-person lessons to support the Boston queer community, but I knew I wanted to reach farther. When I started offering customized video choreography, I began working with queer couples all over the world. That was when I realized just how needed this space truly was.

What moments or experiences helped you see the need for a space like this in the dance world?
The first queer couple I ever taught told me that when they filtered their local search for LGBTQ+ instructors, I was the only one who came up. I was shocked. That moment made it clear how much representation and inclusivity were missing and how deeply needed this work really is.

What styles of dance are at the heart of your or your group’s work?
I teach Foxy to most of my couples because it is romantic, simple to learn, and fits with almost any song. I also know the basics of nearly every ballroom style, so if a couple has a specific vision or favorite dance, I can absolutely make it happen.

What types of events, activities, or resources do you organize or provide?
Right now, I offer private lessons both in person and virtually, customized video choreography, and I am creating an online course for queer couples to learn their first dance from home. I would love to host in-person events or workshops in the future where couples can connect, dance, and celebrate queer joy together.

If you host events or gatherings, how often do they take place?
Not yet, but I hope to soon.

If you're not a one-person show, who’s involved in running things or helping bring your events to life?
My partner, who is not a trained dancer, has been such an incredible support. They help with videography feedback, aesthetics, and sometimes appear in videos. I also work with two amazing dancers who help demonstrate choreography for my clients and one talented video editor who brings everything together.

Have you or your group received any recent recognition, milestones, or moments that made you pause and think, “Yes, this is why I/we do this”?
So many messages from couples truly bring tears to my eyes. Some are from followers who say my content helped them feel seen, and others are from clients who are so happy and proud of how confident they felt during their first dance. Those moments remind me every single day why this work matters, and I am endlessly grateful for it.

Looking ahead, what’s next for you or your group?
I am in the process of launching a full course for queer couples to learn their first dance. It is something I have dreamed about for a long time, and I cannot wait to help even more couples create a wedding dance that feels like them.

If you or your group had a theme song that captures its spirit, what would it be, and why?
I think I would have to go with “I’ve Had The Time of My Life.” It makes me laugh because so many clients worry I am going to add the Dirty Dancing lift to their routine. The song also perfectly captures the joy, connection, and playfulness I want couples to feel when they dance together.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?
It is such a privilege to help couples celebrate their love through dance. Whether they are dancing for thirty seconds or three minutes, it is a moment that stays with them forever, and I am honored to be part of it.

Website: https://www.elaineandersondance.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elaineandersondance/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elaineandersondance

Upcoming announcements: Online course for Queer Couples to learn their First Dance! Hopefully it will be dropped by the new year!