From Lyrics to Memories: Finding the Right Song For Your First Dance

Your wedding day is a celebration of your love, and your first dance is one of the most memorable moments of the event. Choosing the right song sets the tone, and tells a story about your relationship. 

It's easy to feel overwhelmed when choosing a song because of how many dang choices there are! How do you even begin to narrow it down? 

In this guide, I'll walk you through the process of choosing the right song for you, ensuring that your first dance becomes an unforgettable part of your wedding day and part of your love story. 

1. Reflect on Your Relationship

Take a moment with your partner to reflect on your relationship. Think about the songs that hold significance to both of you, whether they remind you of your first date, a special memory, or an important milestone in your relationship. Songs that have sentimental value will make the first dance even more meaningful and unique to your relationship. 

2. Consider Both of Your Tastes in Music

Explore your music tastes as a couple and find common ground. Whether it's a classic ballad, a modern pop song, a romantic jazz tune, or a timeless song from a favorite artist, you should choose a song that resonates with both of you.

3. Analyze the Lyrics

Pay attention to the lyrics of potential first dance songs. The words should reflect the love and connection you share. Look for songs with lyrics that express the emotions you feel for each other and convey your promises and commitment. If the mood of the song is romantic, but the lyrics tell a different story, you might consider another choice. 

4. Assess the Danceability

Consider the tempo and rhythm of the song. The key is to find a song that you both feel comfortable dancing to and that complements your chosen dance style. This is absolutely something that your dance teacher can help you evaluate!

​I usually recommend something mid-tempo for a first dance, with a BPM between 70 to 95. Slower than that tends to be a bit more challenging to dance to.

5. Seek Expert Advice

If you're unsure about which song to choose, don't hesitate to ask your dance instructor for help. They'll be able to offer valuable insights into which dance styles might be appropriate for different songs, and how easy or difficult a song might be to choreograph. I recommend sharing a short list of between 3 and 5 songs with your teacher, so they can give you the lowdown on each one.

6. Trust Your Instincts

In the end, go with your gut. Your first dance is an intimate moment between you and your partner, so the most important thing is that you both love the song you choose. Trust your instincts, and you'll find the perfect song.

Some of my students choose more classic love songs like "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran or "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" by Marvin Gaye. But many people go for the unexpected. I loved choreographing a first dance to Metallica last year! It was perfect for the couple, who were heavy metal enthusiasts.

​I've included a playlist below of some of the songs my students have chosen over the years. Take inspiration if you like, but the most important thing is to choose a song that feels right for you.

Wrapping Up

Choosing a song for your first dance is an opportunity to tell the story of your parternship. By reflecting on your journey together, considering your music tastes, analyzing the lyrics, assessing danceability, and seeking expert advice, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect song. Most importantly, remember to trust your instincts, and your first dance will be an unforgettable and magical moment that you treasure for years to come.