You’re planning out your wedding and so far everything is going great! You have your venue, your vendors, your timeline is set for your day, it’s all coming together. Now it’s time to pick out your song for your first dance and, oh no, you’re stuck. You and your partner go back and forth and can’t really decide on what your first song should be or how to even go about should choosing it!

While you could go with the tried and true Perfect by Ed Sheeran, (no hate on Ed Sheeran but, there are literally SO many cool songs out there) there are so many other great options out there! Take your time, and choose a song that you both love and that feels like you. To help you find a song that’s perfect for your first dance I put this guide together to get you on the right track, so let’s get into it!

The Importance of a First Dance (and Song Choice)

While your first dance song is important, it’s important to not put too much pressure on your decision! You’re going to listen to so many other songs throughout the night and make a LOT of core memories, so have fun with it. Choose a song that feels like you and your honey right now or just something makes you two feel good. Whatever you choose, when you hear it five, ten, or however many years after the wedding it will always take you back to this awesome moment in time. So take it slow, talk it over with your partner and start brainstorming a list of options.

How To Choose Song

When you’re choosing a song for your first dance you want to keep a few things in mind. What is the energy level that you’re looking for? Does the song fit the tone of a wedding? And most importantly do you both love the song? For the energy level typically first dances are on the slower side and can be kind of emotional. Your first dance does not have to be this way though! If you two want to bust a move and celebrate with something a little more upbeat, let’s freaking do it!

When thinking about the tone of the song, keep in mind that this is your wedding. This is a celebration of you and your partner and the love you share for one another. The song’s lyrics and vibe should fall in line with your wedding day and will kick off the rest of your evening. First dance songs are typically the start of the party, so don’t be afraid to have some fun with it. Lastly, you both should love your first dance song. This is a song that you’re both going to connect to after your wedding day, so make sure you both love it and get excited when you hear it!

Pro Tip: Put together a collaborative playlist on Spotify and add some possible options. Listen to the playlist when you’re cooking together or taking a long car ride until you find the one!

Live Band vs. a DJ

One thing that you’re going to want to consider when choosing your first dance song is what the music situation is going to be for your wedding reception. Are you having a DJ or a live band perform, and if you’re having a live band are you going to have them for the entire reception or only part? There are upsides to both so there is no wrong answer, just things to be aware of! For a DJ you’ll be able to choose your song and hear it exactly how it was recorded. 

With a live band if you hire them for full coverage you’ll be able to have them perform your first dance song which can add to the moment and make it even more special. Hiring the band for only partial coverage means that you’ll likely have to play your first dance song over the venue’s speakers which if you love the original version of the song might be the best way to go if you do still want that live band experience.

Song Ideas

There are so many great songs out there right now that are perfect for your first dance. You and your partner may already have some ideas in your heads! BUT, if you’re not sure where to start and need a little inspiration, here are my top 5 favorites for you. And who knows, maybe one of these songs will click with both of you and become your new fav!

Wildfire by Seafret

Butterflies by Kacey Musgraves

Tus Pies by Nahko And Medicine For The People

Boxes by The Goo Goo Dolls

ilym by John K feat. ROSIE

When it comes to choosing your first dance song the most important thing is to stay true to you. Find a song that both you and your partner enjoy. One that means something to both of you, or something that you really love right now that will mean something to your for the rest of your life. For more wedding day tips and guides head on over to my blog page!