How to Choose the Perfect Song for Your First Dance

Your first dance as a married couple is a special moment that will be remembered forever. The right song sets the tone for this magical experience. But how do you find the perfect one? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose a song that’s meaningful, danceable, and perfect for your wedding day.

1. Reflect on Your Relationship

Your first dance song should reflect your relationship, so start by thinking about your journey together:

• Shared Memories: Do you have a song that reminds you of a special memory, like a first date or a favorite trip?

• Personal Meaning: Look for lyrics that speak to your relationship’s story—whether it’s about the way you met, how you feel about each other, or your dreams for the future.

Examples:
"You Are the Best Thing" by Ray LaMontagne for a joyful, uplifting vibe.
"Perfect" by Ed Sheeran for a classic, romantic feel.

2. Consider the Tempo and Style

The tempo of the song will affect the style of dance you can do. Some songs lend themselves to a slow, romantic waltz, while others are perfect for a fun, upbeat routine.

• Slow and Romantic: If you want a traditional slow dance, choose a ballad with a relaxed tempo.

• Upbeat and Fun: If you’re looking for something lively, pick a song with a faster beat that allows for more movement and fun choreography.

Pro Tip: If you’re nervous about dancing in front of a crowd, a slower song may be easier to dance to.

Examples:
Slow: “At Last” by Etta James (perfect for a classic slow dance)
Upbeat: “Can’t Stop the Feeling” by Justin Timberlake (for couples who want to have fun and get the crowd moving)

3. Think About Your Dance Ability

Consider your comfort level and experience when choosing a song. You don’t need to be a professional dancer, but the song should suit your skill level.

• Beginner-Friendly: If you’re new to dancing, stick to a song with a steady rhythm and predictable beat. It will be easier to learn basic steps that look great.

• For More Experienced Dancers: If you have some dancing experience or want to do something more elaborate, choose a song with dynamic changes in tempo or mood that allows for creative choreography.

4. Length Matters

The length of your first dance song is important—most couples aim for 2-3 minutes to keep the moment special without making it feel too long for your guests.

• Short and Sweet: Some songs have long instrumental intros or outros. If that’s the case, consider asking your DJ to fade the music after a couple of minutes or edit the track down to a reasonable length.

Tip: If you’re nervous about dancing for too long, pick a song with a shorter runtime (or have an idea of when you want the DJ/band to stop playing).

5. Check the Lyrics

Before committing to a song, take a moment to read through the lyrics. Sometimes, even a beautiful melody can hide lyrics that may not be suitable for a wedding.

• Look for Positive Messages: Make sure the lyrics align with the joyful occasion and your relationship.

• Avoid Unintended Meanings: Be cautious of songs that sound romantic but have themes of heartbreak or loss.

Example:
"Every Breath You Take" by The Police sounds sweet but is actually about obsession.

6. Get a Second Opinion

If you’ve narrowed it down to a few options, ask for input from your partner, friends, or even your dance instructor. They can provide valuable feedback about the flow, energy, and danceability of the song.

• Do a Practice Dance: Put on your top contenders and try a practice dance. Sometimes, what sounds good on a playlist might not feel right when you’re moving to it.

7. Make It Personal

Your wedding is a reflection of you as a couple, so don’t feel pressured to choose a song just because it’s popular or traditional. If you have a quirky or unconventional taste in music, embrace it!

Ideas:

• A song from your favorite movie soundtrack.

• A unique genre like jazz, indie, or even a cover version of a classic.

Final Thoughts

Your first dance song should feel right for you both. Whether it’s a slow ballad, a fun pop song, or something unique, the most important thing is that it reflects your relationship and makes you feel comfortable on the dance floor.

Now that you have a song in mind, don’t forget to practice with your dance instructor to ensure you’re both confident and ready to shine on your big day!