How To Choose Your First Dance Song

The first dance is an iconic part of your wedding day. It is one wedding tradition that hasn't gone anywhere, and I don't see it going anywhere, anytime soon. Whilst your guests are expecting it, this moment is about the two of you as a couple. How you felt in that moment never, ever goes away.

It is easy to see why for many, choosing the first dance song can be quite the task. Being such an important decision, it can become really quite daunting and knowing where to start can be half the battle. So here we are with some tips on how to choose your perfect first dance song.

Personal Taste

The first step is to pick a genre you can both get on board with. As couples, we don't always have the same music taste. There is no point in picking a Country song if the other person hates country music. Decide on a genre you both like or that compromises between both of your tastes.

Meaningful Lyrics

Let me tell you now, this can sometimes be a really tough task. Really listen to the lyrics of some songs you have picked out. What sounds like a love song on the surface can have a very different meaning when you listen to the lyrics closely. Go for song lyrics that resonate with you as a couple. If you have had a tough journey for whatever reason, let your first dance songs lyrics reflect that.

Favourite Artist

Perhaps you have a favourite artist as a couple. Go through all their songs, and listen to the B sides, covers and EPs they have released. As an example, when I got married (all those years ago!) Stereophonics were an iconic band for us as a couple. They were the first band we went to see together and the band we had seen the most over the years, but none of their songs felt right for a first dance song. Until we discovered they had a cover of Roberta Flacks, First Time Ever I Saw Your Face. It was perfect!

Shared Moments & Memories

Nearly every couple has 'a song'. A song that means something to you both deeply. One that brings memories, emotions and just makes you think of the other person. Can it not be as simple as using that song? It doesn't have to be a traditional love or first dance song. If it is sentimental to you and fits that kind of dance you want to do, go with it!

Cultural Significance

You may have a song in mind that holds a deep meaning for you because of yours or your partners heritage or cultural background. Using this will add a deeper meaning to your first dance, not just for you but your families too.

Danceability

Whilst it isn't the most important factor in choosing a first dance song, it really does matter. If you plan to sway in a circle and nothing else for the duration then a dance song might not be the kind of vibe you want. Go for a song that you can both dance comfortably to without feeling any awkwardness or pressure to 'perform'. However, on the flip side, if you are the kind of couple that take centre stage on a dancefloor... use it!

Song Length

Once you have chosen your song, consider the length of it. Three and a half minutes can feel like a lifetime for you and your guests. Ask you DJ or band if they can shorten, or lengthen the song to fit what kind of first dance you want. Most will do this with ease and nobody will ever notice!

Practice

Once all the above has been decided and you are set on your first dance song, it is important to practice. If you haven't got much rhythm or you don't often dance together make sure you take time to practice. If nothing else, it will add to the memories that song holds for you in years to come.

Some Modern Options

It is really easy to go with old classics when it comes to your first dance song, but here we have given you a few ideas for more modern songs that fit perfectly into the Wedding First Dance category.

Heaven - Niall Horan

Adore You - Fred Again

You and I - Rita Ora

Desire - Calvin Harris ft Sam Smith

We Can Fly - Rob Eyez

Adore You - Harry Styles

Until I Found You - Stephen Sanchez

Have you chosen your first dance song yet? What have you gone for? An old classic, something modern or something completely different? We would love to know. Add a comment below and let us know!