Your first dance song at your wedding reception is a big deal. The two of you will always identify that song as ‘your song’. Every time you hear it on the radio, a flood of memories will rush over you. You’ll find yourself reminiscing about your wedding day, the music that was played at the reception and dancing with the person you will spend the rest of your life with. So obviously, there should be some serious thought put into this song. Hopefully this blog will give you some pointers on choosing that all important first dance song.
Make sure the song has some sentimental meaning for the both of you. There’s probably already a song out there that the two of you identify with that seems like a natural for your first dance. Maybe it was the first song you ever danced or kissed to. Maybe it was a song that reminds you of the first time you met or the first date you went on. Many people rule out certain songs because they aren’t popular, but don’t limit yourself to just top 40 hits. Your first dance is all about you - not your guests. Choose a song that speaks to you, whether or not your guests may be familiar with it.
There are times when you may want to keep that sentimental song for the last dance of the night instead of the first - namely if you are going to be choreographing the first dance. Then you may want to play a song that doesn’t mean as much to the two of you, but lends itself well to a well planned choreographed dance.
Speaking on dancing, it’s important to choose a song that is danceable. You don’t want to appear awkward dancing to a song that you can’t move well to. Also, try to choose a song that’s about 2-½ to 3 minutes in length. This will keep you and your guests from getting restless. If you do choose a longer song, be sure to communicate with your DJ about fading the song down at a certain point.
A popular trend seems to be breaking away from the traditional first dance songs and becoming creative with mash-ups of classic songs and popular songs. A few months ago I was the DJ at a wedding where a couple wanted an intro from Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy” mixed into “Staying Alive” as their first dance song. The crowd reaction was priceless and it was one of the most talked about dances I’ve seen through the years of being a DJ.
At a wedding that took place close to Halloween last year, one of my friend’s started their first dance song with “Endless Love” which soon ended with a record-screeching halt and they broke into a fully choreographed dance set to Rob Zombie’s “Dragula”. The crowd was completely caught off-guard but delighted. These creative mixes or mash-ups really set the tone for a memorable evening because your guests feed off of your excitement. It’s your special day. Have fun with it.
Whether you choose a song has sentimental meaning or lends itself to to a creative flair, you’ll always remember your first dance. And that song will have a special meaning every time you hear it. Put some thought into the song so you can enjoy the moment - not just during your first dance, but for the rest of your life.
