How to Pick a First Dance Song

Are you going to be traditional or unconventional? Either option is perfectly acceptable if both of you are OK with it. Traditional first dance songs (such as “At Last” by Etta James, “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra or “Just the Way You Are” by Billy Joel) always work, you can be sure that your first dance is going to be romantic and emotional. But if you are not fond of tradition, you can choose something more modern (for example, “Marry You” by Bruno Mars) or pick something completely unexpected but very “you”.

Pick from songs that are meaningful to you as a couple. Most couples have “their” song or songs they associate with significant moments of their dating life: their first date, first kiss, first vacation as a couple, first time they told each other “I love you”, hell, even first sex. Although guests probably don't need to know that you are dancing to the song that was playing in the background when you had sex for the first time.

Mind the lyrics. So, you think you've found your perfect song. You like the melody and the song means something to you as a couple. But are the lyrics wedding-appropriate? Some popular songs have disturblingly creepy lyrics, we just tend to overlook it because the melody is catchy. That is why you need to really listen to the song in order to make sure it won't freak your guests out. If you want to pick a song in a foreign language (oh, French, the language of love!), you must look up the translation.

Make sure the song fits your wedding style. If you are going to have a themed wedding, your first dance song needs to fit the theme. For example, if you are planning a beach wedding, choosing “Baby, It's Cold Outside” as your first dance song wouldn't be the best idea, even if this song means much to you.

Make sure you are comfortable dancing to it. You don't have to slow dance, many couples choose upbeat songs for their first dance. But if you feel that the song you've chosen is too fast-paced, you might want to choose another one. However, you shouldn't give up too early! Many songs have stripped-down, slower tempo cover versions. Try searching on YouTube.

Ask you dance instructor. If you decided to take a dance class in preparation for the wedding or hire a dance instructor, you can ask them if they have any suggestions for the first dance songs. Of course, you need to give them as much information as you can about your wedding plans so that they can suggest a song that would really fit.

Consider the technicalities. Some couples decide to hire a live band instead of using recorded music. If this is your case, make sure the band can play the song of your choice. It is also important to consider the bride's dress style because some dress styles are uncomfortable to dance in.