You might feel better if you get a buddy from one of your classes to go with you, so you know you'll have someone to talk to. Also, if there is a lesson before the dance, take it. It will help to get you introduced to everyone at the party so you'll feel more comfortable asking them to dance, and they you. Same goes for mixers! Don't worry about being perfect or even good...just have fun.

I've danced with guys who had worked out a "routine" for themselves of the steps they knew and practiced it before the dance. I didn't realize that until I danced with them the second time! It did have the advantage of the guy feeling sure of what he was doing and not having to decide what to do on the the spur of the moment (but you still have to avoid collisions!). And as a relative beginner myself, I'll put in a pitch that you should ask beginning women to dance (since the more advanced men ask the more advanced women, how else are we going to get any practice?). If you go to parties regularly, you'll meet women who are beginners and even if it is awkward at first, you'll get to know one another's dancing over time and can relax and laugh at your mistakes and get better together. My favorite social dance partners are dancers on my own level.

I do a lot of Social Dancing . We are expected in this studio to change partners, which we do. If I am dancing , any dance with an advanced lady I have my set routine which I know back to front including the ladies steps. I never have any trouble in leading, although I might just whisper, Fallaway Double Reverse Overspin into a Throwaway. With a beginner I do absolute Basics, and again I might say Whisk and Chasse Natural Turn or whatever. With a beginner I think its a good idea, not to loud though, to call the timing of the dance you are doing.

I admire the ability to whisper QUICKLY

im sorry i dont do ballroom dancing but i do tap jazz ballet acro and hip hop and i may have an idea for your male friend if he forgets the steps just write them down and every time he dances think them over in his hope it helps from kayla

Being a 10 year Teacher I know how people can feel woried or scared at parties or dance sessions, My advice go out and have fun thats the key. most people who dance with a few exceptions are glad to see you out their. 9 out of 10 are pationt for all lvls of dance and will evin help ya out.

Another thing about dances are their great practice so go have some fun :)