I had to learn waltz for my wedding. I did so in about 2 or 3 months, and I had one major problem. Turning so fast got me too giddy and I would loose the pace and even fall, and this without alcohol (and you bet there is alcohol in a wedding reception). So I had to learn to change the direction of rotation after 3 or 4 turns, which is kind of a subtle move (see: How to Waltz: Intermediate Lesson) for someone who does not dance regularly. However, if done well, it is much more impressive than only doing the four basic steps. My mother simply couldn't believe the end result!