Etiquette*~

'Once Upon a Dream' English Country Dance Ball Etiquette

(page copied from a friend)

 + Gentlemen will be expected to ask the ladies to dance. Ladies will NOT ask the gentleman. Gentlemen, please escort your ladies on, and off of the dance floor leading them back to where you found them (offering your arm.)

+ Ladies-if you do not wish to dance the following dance, simply sit down to save the guys the trouble of asking. If the gentleman thanks you for the dance, after it is over, do not say, “You’re welcome” (unless you wish to sound snobbish). Instead, you should thank him also. If you do refuse a gentleman a dance, and give a reason such as, “No, thank you, I am tired” then you will be expected to sit out that dance no matter who asks you. However, you may refuse one gentleman and accept another if you do not give a reason.

+ Gentlemen- if the lady does refuse your proposal to dance do not take it personally.

+ It is only polite etiquette to dance up to two dances with the same partner unless, of course, you are married or otherwise engaged.
   
+ Ladies may dance with other ladies, but ONLY after all the gentlemen have chosen their partners for the said dance.

 + All dances will begin and end with a bow or curtsy to partners and opposites (when appropriate). Between dances, when the center of the room is cleared, one should refrain from walking across the dance floor if at all possible. This eliminates the false idea of a dance about to begin.
   
+ Dance cards will be available if the lady so chooses to have one.
   
+ Last but not least, have fun and enjoy yourself. :)
   
**Note to Dancers** Always be aware of where you step and try not to step on the ladies’ skirts or the gentlemen’s heals.