Your first dance as a newly married couple is a special moment you'll remember forever. The perfect song choice can enhance this experience and set the tone for the rest of your wedding reception. But with so many options, how do you decide on the perfect wedding music for your first dance? Googling "wedding music for first dance" may give you a list of popular songs, but what about choosing something unique and personal? 

Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

Consider Your Personalities

Think about who you are as a couple and what type of music best represents your relationship. Do you share a love for a particular band or artist? Have certain songs played significant roles in your journey together? Choose a song that reflects both of your personalities and the unique love story you share. Whether it's a romantic ballad that speaks to your heart or an upbeat tune that gets you moving, choose a song that feels like it was made for you.

Think About the Theme or Mood of Your Wedding

Your wedding reflects your love and personality, so choosing a first dance song that complements the overall theme and mood of your celebration is essential. Are you planning a romantic garden wedding, a chic urban affair, or a rustic barn celebration? Select a song that sets the right tone for the atmosphere you want to create. Consider the vibe you want to convey – do you envision a tender, intimate moment or a fun and lively dance party? Your first dance song can set the stage for the rest of your evening.

Keep It Timeless

While choosing a popular song of the moment may be tempting, remember that your first dance is a memory you'll cherish for years to come. Opt for a timeless classic or an enduring love song that will stand the test of time. Look for songs with lyrics that resonate with you as a couple and evoke the emotions you want to express on your wedding day. Whether it's a heartfelt ballad that speaks to the depth of your love or an uplifting anthem that celebrates your journey together, choose a song that will continue to hold meaning for you long after the wedding.

Embrace Current Hits

While choosing a timeless classic is a beautiful option, there's also something special about incorporating a contemporary hit into your first dance. A popular or modern song can reflect the current chapter of your love story and bring fresh, exciting energy to your celebration.

The key to making a modern song work for your first dance is to collaborate with the right band or production partner. With their expertise, you can transform a high-energy track into a heartfelt, slow-dance version that fits perfectly with your wedding atmosphere. Whether it's a chart-topping hit that always gets you both singing along or a new release that has quickly become "your song," don't be afraid to embrace the present and let your first dance be a beautiful, modern reflection of your love.



Consider Length and Lyrics

When choosing your first dance song, consider factors like length and lyrics. Think about how long you want your first dance to be and select a song that fits accordingly. Pay attention to the lyrics as well – make sure they reflect the sentiments you wish to express and are appropriate for the occasion. You don't want any surprises or awkward moments during your first dance, so choose a song with lyrics that resonate with you as a couple and convey the love and commitment you share.

Practice Makes Perfect

Once you've chosen your song, practice dancing to it before the big day. Practicing a choreographed routine (or even a simple sway) will help you feel confident and comfortable during your first dance. Take the time to rehearse together and make any adjustments to ensure your dance is flawless.

Examples of Some of Our Favorite First Dance Songs

1. "At Last" by Etta James: This classic soul ballad captures the sentiment of finding true love after a long wait, making it a timeless choice for couples seeking a romantic and elegant first dance song.
2. "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran: With its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody, "Thinking Out Loud" epitomizes enduring love and devotion, making it a popular choice for couples who want a modern yet timeless first dance song.
3. "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley: This timeless classic evokes the magic of falling in love at first sight, making it a romantic and sentimental choice for couples who want to capture the essence of their love story in their first dance.
4. "Unchained Melody" by The Righteous Brothers: Revered for its haunting melody and poignant lyrics, "Unchained Melody" is a timeless and evocative choice for couples who want a romantic and emotive first dance song that stands the test of time.
5. "All of Me" by John Legend: Known for its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody, "All of Me" expresses unconditional love and acceptance, making it a popular choice for couples who want a deeply meaningful and emotional first dance song.
6. "Marry Me" by Train: This sweet and romantic song is a heartfelt expression of love and commitment. With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, "Marry Me" is a popular choice for couples who want a modern and upbeat first dance song that celebrates their love.
7. "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri: Inspired by the Twilight saga, this enchanting ballad speaks of eternal love and unwavering commitment, making it a poignant and emotive choice for couples embarking on their journey together.
8. "Stand by Me" by Ben E. King: With its soulful melody and timeless message of loyalty and support, "Stand by Me" is a classic choice for couples who want a heartfelt and meaningful first dance song that resonates with generations.
9. "You Are the Best Thing" by Ray LaMontagne: With its upbeat tempo and soulful groove, "You Are the Best Thing" radiates joy and celebration, making it an uplifting choice for couples who want to kick off their reception with energy and enthusiasm.
10. "Wonderful Tonight" by Eric Clapton: This romantic ballad is a tender expression of love and admiration. With its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics, "Wonderful Tonight" is a popular choice for couples who want a timeless and emotionally resonant first dance song.
11. "Perfect" by Ed Sheeran: Revered for its tender lyrics and melodic charm, "Perfect" resonates deeply with couples seeking a contemporary ballad for their first dance, capturing the essence of true love in a modern musical masterpiece.
12. "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" by Aerosmith: With its impassioned vocals and sweeping melody, "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" strikes a chord with couples desiring a timeless yet powerful first dance anthem, embodying the profound connection between two hearts.
13. "Can't Stop the Feeling!" by Justin Timberlake: Infused with infectious energy and irresistible rhythm, "Can't Stop the Feeling!" ignites the dance floor, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a lively and upbeat first dance song that exudes joy and celebration.
14. "Your Song" by Elton John: With its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody, "Your Song" captures the essence of love and devotion, making it a timeless and romantic choice for couples who want a meaningful and heartfelt first dance song.
15. "Make You Feel My Love" by Adele: Originally written by Bob Dylan, Adele's rendition of "Make You Feel My Love" is a soul-stirring ballad that expresses deep love and devotion, making it an emotive choice for couples who want a heartfelt and romantic first dance song.

Get Input from Your Production Partner, DJ or Band

Seek advice from your wedding entertainment professionals — they've heard and seen it all.  Plus, they have experience and expertise in creating memorable first dance moments and can offer valuable insights on song selection, musical arrangements, and more. Discuss your ideas with them and collaborate to create a customized first dance that is uniquely yours.

Our experienced team at BFP has extensive knowledge of first dance songs and can offer valuable insights and recommendations to ensure your dance is unforgettable. We've worked with couples of all backgrounds and musical preferences, and we're here to help you find the perfect song for your special moment.

Have Fun with It

Remember, this is your wedding day; your first dance should reflect your love and joy. Don't overthink it too much — choose a song that makes you happy and have fun!

At Bonnie Foster Productions, we understand the importance of choosing the perfect wedding song for your first dance. Our team of experienced professionals can help guide you through choosing the right music for your special moment. From live bands to DJs and everything in between, we have a talented roster of performers who can bring your vision to life and create a memorable experience for you and your guests.

Contact us (or text Bonnie at 858-967-0167) today for more information!