The ULTIMATE GUIDE to Finding the Perfect One. Wedding song that is! 🙂
Finding your soulmate doesn’t come with instructions. But finding the perfect first dance song definitely can! Now that you found the first one already, we are happy to help you with the latter.
Your wedding day is a milestone of love and commitment, a day you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
Among the many magical moments, your first dance as a married couple stands out as a symbol of your union. It’s a chance to share a beautiful, heartfelt moment with your partner and create memories that will last a lifetime.
To make this moment even more special, you need the perfect first dance song – one that resonates with your unique love story. But with so many songs to choose from, finding “the one” can be a stressful task. Fear not, because we’ve prepared the ultimate guide to help you navigate this exciting journey and select a first dance song that will truly captivate your hearts.
Step 1: Reflect on Your Love Story
Start by reflecting on your journey as a couple. What moments define your relationship? Is there a special place where you first met, or a significant event that brought you closer together? Think about the song that was playing during your first date or a memorable vacation. These personal anecdotes can serve as a wellspring of inspiration for your first dance song.
Step 2: Set the Mood
Consider the mood you want to convey during your first dance. Do you envision a romantic, intimate moment, or do you want to surprise your guests with a fun, energetic performance?
The mood of your song should align with the atmosphere you want to create. Make a list of adjectives that describe the feeling you want to evoke, such as “romantic,” “joyful,” “upbeat,” or “nostalgic.”
Step 3: Explore Your Musical Tastes
Think about the music you both love. Are you fans of classic rock, country, pop, jazz, latin, afrobeat or something entirely unique? Your first dance song should reflect your musical preferences and resonate with your personalities. Don’t be afraid to choose a song that’s a bit off the beaten path if it holds special meaning for you.
Check out this Spotify Playlist for inspiration – the songs picked by real wedding couples in the past few months.
Step 4: Consider the Lyrics of Your Perfect First Dance Song
Pay attention to the lyrics of potential songs. Do they tell a story that mirrors your own? Do they convey the emotions you want to express? Ensure the lyrics are in sync with the message you wish to convey during your first dance.
Step 5: Test the Tempo
The tempo of the song is crucial for your dance.
Pro Dance Tip: Slow songs don’t always mean slow dancing. For example, “At Last” by Etta James seems like a slow song. But in fact, the speed of dancing to it will be super fast because it is the Viennese Waltz. So if you would prefer a slower-paced dance, you want to search for music that would match such dance styles as the Waltz, Rumba, Foxtrot, or Bolero.
So make sure the tempo matches your dance style and comfort level.
Step 6: Danceability
Consider the danceability of the song. If you plan to take dance lessons or have your wedding dance choreographed for you, choose a song with a rhythm that you can easily dance to and hear the beat.
Some songs have unpredictable changes in tempo or rhythm that may be challenging for beginners. This is also true for the acoustic versions of the songs.
Step 7: Keep It Short
We recommend keeping your first dance song down to 2-3 minutes but not longer.
Pro Dance Tip: Make sure your song is mixed in advance. Don’t ask your DJ to do it on the spot because you need to practice and know exactly how much time you have while dancing.
Step 8: Seek Expert Advice on Finding a Perfect First Dance Song
Consult with a dance instructor for their professional input. They can recommend songs that are well-suited for your chosen dance style, the overall vibe of your wedding, your music taste and even dance experience, and offer guidance on dance steps that complement the music.
Book a FREE 30-minute wedding dance consultation with one of our expert dance instructors today!
Step 9: Listen and Feel
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, listen to the songs together. Pay attention to how they make you feel. Do they fill you with joy, nostalgia, or love? The emotional connection to the song is perhaps the most important factor.
Step 10: Make It Your Own
Remember that your first dance is a unique expression of your love. Don’t feel pressured to choose a song just because it’s popular or traditional. The perfect song is the one that feels right for you as a couple.
Step 11: Practice, Practice, Practice
Once you’ve chosen your song and started taking dance lessons, practice your dance moves. Whether you’re going for a simple sway or an elaborate routine, practice will make your first dance feel smooth and effortless.
In conclusion, choosing the perfect first dance song is a beautiful journey that reflects your love story and sets the tone for your wedding day. Take your time, trust your instincts, and select a song that speaks to your hearts. When the moment comes to step onto the dance floor, you’ll share a magical, unforgettable experience that encapsulates the essence of your love
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect song for your first dance is all about selecting a tune that resonates with your love story, evokes the right emotions, and feels comfortable for both you and your partner to dance to. Consider songs that hold personal significance or lyrics that reflect your relationship. It’s essential to pick a tempo and style that suits your comfort level, whether it’s a slow, romantic ballad or an upbeat, fun track. Ultimately, the perfect song is one that makes you both feel special and connected as you dance your way into this new chapter of your lives together.