Code of Conduct
How we keep the dance floor safe and fun for everyone.
Be respectful. Ask before you dance with someone. Accept "no" without making it weird. Take care of your hygiene. Let people learn at their own pace. If something feels wrong, tell a WMLD team member. We'll handle it.
Walk up, make eye contact, and ask. A smile and "would you like to dance?" works every time. If they say no, say "no worries" and move on. No one owes you a dance, and no one should feel guilty for declining.
If someone keeps saying no to you specifically, take the hint. Don't ask again that night.
Lead with your partner's comfort, not your own skill. If a move isn't working, try something simpler. Forcing someone through a pattern they can't follow isn't dancing.
Watch your space. Crowded floors mean smaller moves. If you elbow someone, stop and apologize.
Don't correct someone's technique on the social floor unless they ask you to. The lesson is for learning. The social is for dancing.
When the instructor is talking, stop talking. Give them your attention. They're volunteering their time to teach you.
Rotate when asked. Partner rotation is how everyone gets better. If you came with someone, you'll get them back after class.
Patience goes both ways. If your partner is struggling, help them through it. You were new once too.
You're dancing in close contact with strangers. This part matters.
Wear deodorant. Bring mints or gum. If you've been dancing for a while and you're sweating, step off, towel down, and reapply. Carry a spare shirt if you run hot.
Clean shoes, clean clothes, fresh breath. Your dance partners will thank you.
Latin dance can feel intimate. That closeness is part of the art form, not an invitation. Keep your hands where they belong. If you're not sure what's appropriate, default to keeping more distance.
No one should feel uncomfortable at our events. If someone tells you they don't like something you're doing, stop doing it. No debate.
Harassment, unwanted touching, intimidation, or discrimination of any kind will get you removed from the event and banned from future ones. Zero tolerance.
Many of our events are at venues that serve alcohol. Drink responsibly. If you're too drunk to walk straight, you're too drunk to lead or follow safely.
No drinks on the dance floor. One spill ruins the surface for everyone and creates a slip hazard.
WMLD takes photos and videos at events for promotion. By attending, you're agreeing to that. If you don't want to be in photos, let a team member know at the start of the night and we'll make sure the photographer knows.
If you're taking your own photos or video, don't film people without asking first. Posting someone on social media without their permission is not cool.
Welcome. You picked the right community. Everyone here was a beginner at some point, and most people remember what it felt like to walk in the first time.
If you're nervous, grab a WMLD team member (we'll be easy to spot). We'll introduce you to people, walk you through how the night works, and make sure you have someone to dance with. That's what we're here for.
Find any WMLD team member. You can also text or call us at (616) 739-6202 or email info@westmichiganlatindance.com. We take every report seriously and we handle things discreetly.
You won't get in trouble for reporting something. You won't be asked to "just let it go." We'd rather hear about a problem and investigate than let someone feel unsafe.
By attending WMLD events, you agree to follow this Code of Conduct. We reserve the right to remove anyone who violates these guidelines.