Meet Vanessa Shields
Hello!
If you’re here, there’s a good chance you’re planning a wedding and wondering what to do about that first dance.
Maybe you’re excited.
Maybe you’re nervous.
Maybe you’ve already told your fiancé, “We can’t dance.” lol
Trust me, you are not alone.
I’m Vanessa Shields, founder of Lessons with Vanessa and the highest-rated wedding dance instructor on The Knot in Austin, Texas. With more than 20 years of teaching experience and a degree in Education, I’ve helped hundreds of couples transform their first dance from something they’re nervous about into one of their favorite parts of the wedding experience.
While I work with dancers of all levels, my specialty is helping self-proclaimed non-dancers learn in a way that feels natural, encouraging, and surprisingly fun.
And… something interesting happens along the way.
Couples often arrive thinking they’re signing up for wedding dance lessons. What they discover is a chance to slow down, laugh together, and spend intentional time with one another during an otherwise busy season of wedding planning. Many students tell me their lessons became a weekly date night. Others say their first dance ended up being one of their favorite highlights from the entire wedding day.
Here’s what I know after years of working with wedding couples: choosing to embrace dance for your special day is more than just steps and routines. It’s an investment in memories and gained skills that will echo throughout your lifetime. Through dance, you’ll discover a bond with your partner that’s intimate and uniquely your own. It’s a journey of connection, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Lessons with Vanessa offers private wedding dance lessons in Austin, TX and beyond through both in-person lessons at my boutique studio and virtual lessons via Zoom. The studio has earned more than 230 five-star reviews and 6 Best of Weddings awards from The Knot, including The Knot Hall of Fame.
Whether you’re looking for a simple first dance or a show-stopping routine, I’m here to help you create something that feels authentic to you as a couple.
Let’s dance! I can’t wait to meet you.
Warmly,
Vanessa Shields
All love celebrated, all souls welcome.
Proudly serving as an equal rights vendor.
Last updated: July 2026
Use this form to book with Vanessa or ask questions
What Happens Next?
- Vanessa reads your message personally. Every inquiry goes straight to Vanessa herself, and she typically replies within 24 hours (often much sooner).
- You’ll figure out the details together. She’ll answer your questions, check in about your first-dance song (and share a Spotify playlist for inspiration if you’re still deciding), and help you choose the right package if you’d like some guidance. Prefer a quick phone call instead? Just say the word.
- You reserve your spot. When you’re ready to move forward, a $100 deposit via Venmo secures your place. Vanessa then sends your dance contract and a link so you can schedule your lessons on her calendar, at times that work for you.
And here’s the part couples love: before you ever set foot in the studio, Vanessa has already listened to your song and comes in with a plan built around it. No standing around while moves get invented on the spot — you just show up ready to have a good time.
