Why did you start Soni Choreography?

Dancing fills my soul and makes me feel alive, and designing choreography makes me feel whole. I'm trained in three forms of Indian Classical dance, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi & Mohiniyattam, and completed my Arangetram for all three forms in 2006. A foundation in classical dance has given me the gift of versatility--through the years I have built a mastery in several forms of dance including but not limited to Bollywood, Garba, Dandiya Raas, Ballroom, Latin & Shuffling. Collectively, I have 23+ years of training and have been performing and choreographing professionally for 15+ years.

I founded Soni Choreography after I witnessed my cousin and sister-in-law frantically practicing their first dance in a bridal suite minutes before their reception entrance. Too often, first dances end up being an afterthought. Your first dance as a married couple deserves the same attention to detail as every other aspect of your big day. I believe that every dance tells a story, and every couple has a unique story! Your first dance should be tailored to yours, and it's my job to help you tell it elegantly. I am committed to making my clientele feel confident and look polished for their most memorable moments.

Tell us about the one experience that triggered you to become a dance choreographer.

A few years ago, I was contacted by a bride and groom who were having a luxury wedding in Lake Como, Italy. They had added in two more performances to their sangeet program very last minute, and desperately needed assistance putting together the choreo and teaching the dancers. They were aware I had extensive dance experience and reached out to me for help. I was more than happy to, and I had so much fun with the family! After the wedding, they reached out to share that their guests had been raving about the dances I choreographed. I was blown away from the positive feedback.

Sometime after, I was a guest at my cousin’s wedding, which was another grand affair. Every detail had been meticulously managed—except for one, the first dance. A few minutes before the newlyweds were set to make their reception entrance, I happened to witness them hurriedly practicing their first dance in a bridal suite instead of relaxing and having a bite to eat before the evening commenced. I then realized how often first dances sadly end up as an afterthought. Every couple’s first dance as a married couple deserves the same level of attention as every other aspect of their big day. That’s when I set out on my journey to help others dance confidently on their most special days. My love for dance and choreography coupled with my passion for making my clients look their very best has made this journey purposeful, and incredibly rewarding.

What do you love most about being a dance choreographer?

Instilling confidence in my clients & seeing their beautiful smiles during their performance!

What styles of dance do you specialize in?

Bollywood, Indian classical & folk, including garba and dandiya-raas, ballroom, Latin, contemporary, and shuffling/cutting shapes.

What does your process look like working with clients to teach them a dance for their wedding?

The first step is gaining a clear understanding of my clients’ vision. Certain couples want a classic, romantic first dance, while others want an upbeat one to hype up their friends & family. Based on what they are looking for, their level of dance experience, and their song selections, I design an appropriate dance routine. Then we hit the studio to dance!

How do you teach clients who have never danced before or are self-conscious?

I design a simple routine for them. A first dance doesn’t need to be a huge production—there is immense beauty in simplicity. I shift my focus and invest more time in technique and styling to ensure even the newest of dancers feel confident and look polished for their performance.

Where do you provide training sessions?

My studio is located in northern New Jersey. I also provide choreography services worldwide, both virtual and in person.

How many lessons does it typically take to prepare a performance dance? 

For clients & couples who have experience dancing and performing, I recommend a minimum of three 60-minute lessons. For couples who require more detailed guidance, I suggest at least five lessons. This way, I can teach the choreo at a more comfortable pace, while leaving plenty of time to review styling and technique in depth.

How far in advance do you recommend friends and family members start practicing for their sangeet or reception performances?

As early as possible. Dance lessons should never be put on the backburner. Scrambling to practice routines last minute is incredibly stressful, and clients often mention to me that they wish they had started earlier. Six months prior to the event is ideal, but again, the earlier, the better!

What are the latest trends in Indian wedding choreography? Are there any new trends you are seeing with the couple’s first dance or the father-daughter and mother-son dance?

Traditionally, dance performances happen at the sangeet/garba night and the reception. Recently, I’ve seen choreographed baraat performances, bridal entries, and even mehndi & haldi ceremony performances occur more frequently. Hey, why not? As they say, never miss a chance to dance!

What other tips would you share with the couple and other performers?

Have fun! Seriously. Energy is contagious. Dancers who smile, sing along to the lyrics, and genuinely enjoy the moment will naturally rev up the crowd and make the guests just as thrilled to watch the performance.