Daniel Seguin, owner of the Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Victoria, has spent decades helping people discover the joy and transformative power of dance. His journey from an Internal Auditor to a full-time dance professional is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and using it to inspire others. Today, his studio is a welcoming space for students of all ages, whether they are seeking a new hobby, strengthening their relationships, or preparing for a special event.
Building Confidence Through Dance
Daniel’s story began at 26 when he decided to take dance lessons on a whim at the Arthur Murray studio in Ottawa. What started as a weekend activity soon became a life-changing path when he joined the teacher training program and eventually shifted careers. Now, after more than 31 years of teaching across Canada and the United States, Daniel continues to make a profound impact on the lives of his students.
At his Victoria studio, Daniel has noticed a shift in how dance connects with people. Couples, in particular, are using dance as a way to bond and communicate better. “Over the last decade, I have found that more couples are coming into our studios wanting an activity to do together and enhance communication in their partnership,” he explains. Whether it is empty nesters rediscovering shared interests or engaged couples learning their first dance, Daniel is there to guide them every step of the way
Creating Perfect Wedding Dances
One of Daniel’s passions is helping couples prepare for their wedding day. He believes that dance is more than just a performance; it is a shared experience that strengthens relationships and creates lasting memories. “To be completely prepared for your first dance, I recommend scheduling a complimentary Wedding Dance Consultation 6 to 9 months before the wedding,” he advises. “During this consultation, we will address everything important to help you with the Perfect Dance for the big day. This will give you enough time to learn and get comfortable. All couples find it is a great date night together. In the preparation for the wedding, most couples mention that this is the one thing they get excited about every week.”
For couples feeling apprehensive about performing in front of an audience, Daniel offers simple yet powerful advice: “My advice to couples who are nervous about ‘performing’ is to be prepared. Starting early will give all the repetition of movement so that your muscle memory will kick in on the day. We always encourage people who are new to dance to learn to lead and follow each other instead of complicated choreography. On the day of the wedding, they can dance together in harmony and enjoy the moment versus trying to remember steps. This way, they will look more natural and move with ease on the dance floor.”
Beyond the First Dance
While the first dance often takes centre stage, Daniel and his team also offer guidance for other key wedding moments. “Besides the First Dance, let me and the Arthur Murray instructors help you with the parental dances (Father/Daughter, Mother/Son). Some of the parents may want to learn a few dances for the wedding reception or brush up on some of their dance skills. We have also helped bridal parties prepare for the reception with lessons,” he shares. For couples hosting destination weddings, the studio provides lessons in styles like Salsa, Merengue, and Bachata, ensuring that guests are prepared to make the reception unforgettable.
Dance as a Lifelong Gift
Daniel’s dedication to his students goes beyond wedding preparation. He believes that learning to dance is an investment in a couple’s future. “Dancing is something they can do throughout their marriage,” he explains, emphasizing how the skills and confidence gained in lessons can enrich their lives together.
Andrew Ives and his partner Taylor shared their experience in a recent Google review, “Daniel Seguin is an excellent dance instructor; he is a professional, patient and kind person who helped us get ready for our wedding day. He worked with us on our first dance, expertly crafting and choregraphing our First Dance with our desired music, incorporating features that we were wanting and providing suggestions and ideas on others that might work. He also taught us several dances and techniques that we will be able to use for future dancing occasions. Daniel’s approachability and sense of humour make for an enjoyable and engaging learning experience, we highly recommend taking dancing lessons from Daniel and Arthur Murray Dance Studio.”
The team at Arthur Murray Dance Studio are also passionate about giving back to the community and contributes in several meaningful ways. AMDS regularly donates gift certificates for dance lessons to local charities, helping to support fundraising efforts while introducing people to the joy of dance. They also support the BC Children’s Hospital, demonstrating a commitment to improving the lives of children and families and purchase gift certificates from local businesses for studio giveaways, fostering collaboration and support within the local community.
Packages Offered at Arthur Murray Dance Studio, Victoria
Package A: Basic Wedding Program – $600
During this program you will learn a few steps to move around the dance floor. Great for dancers who want something simple and effortless.
• 4 Private Lessons
• 1 Group Class
• 1 Practice Party
Package B: Deluxe Wedding Program – $1,500
This program will include light choreography with a few highlights. Great for dancers who would like to make a bit of a splash with their first dance.
• 10 Private Lessons
• 4 Group Classes
• 4 Practice Parties
• BONUS Bridal Party Group Class
Package C: Personalized Wedding Program – $3,750
During this program you will have the option to learn a full or partially choreographed routine that will include turns, spins, and a dip. highlights and personalized special moments. This is the perfect dance for couples who would like to dance the night away and make a lasting impression.
• 25 Private Lessons
• 20 Group Classes
• 20 Practice Parties
• BONUS Bridal Party Group Class
• 2 BONUS Private Parental Lessons
With his passion for dance and years of expertise, Daniel Seguin continues to make his Arthur Murray Dance Studio a hub for connection, creativity, and joy. Whether teaching newlyweds their first steps or helping seasoned couples rediscover their rhythm, Daniel’s mission remains clear: to share the transformative power of dance with everyone who walks through his studio doors.
[All photographs courtesy of Arthur Murray Dance Studio]
Author Profile
- Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Marketing & Communications Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine, and digital women's lifestyle magazine EcoLuxLifestyle.co. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Post-pandemic, she has worked with many small to mid-sized plant-based/vegan brands to build their digital foundations and strategize content creation and business development. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at helen@ecoluxluv.com.
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