Your first dance as newlyweds is one of the most memorable moments of your wedding day. It’s a chance to share an intimate moment with your guests, reflecting your love and commitment to each other. Choosing the perfect song can be challenging, especially with many beautiful options. To help you make this special moment unforgettable, we’ve curated a list of five beautiful wedding songs that will resonate with you and your guests.
Summary
Your first dance as newlyweds is a special moment that reflects your love and commitment. Five beautiful songs to consider include Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud,” Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together,” John Legend’s “All of Me,” Queen’s “You’re My Best Friend,” and Etta James’ “At Last.” Personalising your song choice, opting for a live performance, taking dance lessons, creating a mashup, or incorporating unique elements like a silent disco or outdoor setting can make your first dance even more memorable. Your wedding music should be as unique as your love story.
Top 5 First Dance Songs To Make Your Wedding Magical
1. Ed Sheeran – “Thinking Out Loud”
Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran has become a global favourite for weddings. Its slow, emotional melody and lyrics about eternal love perfectly capture the bond between a husband and wife. This song is a tear-jerker, and it’s almost guaranteed that your guests will be moved to tears as they watch you dance to it.
Why It Works: The song’s lyrics, “When your legs don’t work like they used to before, and I can’t sweep you off of your feet,” speak to a love that endures beyond physical appearances and abilities, making it an ideal choice for couples who want to express the depth of their commitment.
2. Al Green – “Let’s Stay Together”
Released in 1971, Let’s Stay Together by Al Green is an R&B classic that remains a popular choice for weddings. The smooth rhythm and soulful lyrics make it an ideal song for setting the mood on the dance floor. The song’s message of love and commitment makes it a fitting choice for starting your marriage on a positive note.
Why It Works: The lyrics, “Loving you whether, whether times are good or bad, happy or sad,” highlight the importance of staying together through all of life’s ups and downs, which is a powerful message to convey during your first dance.
3. John Legend – “All Of Me”
All of Me by John Legend is a modern classic that has touched the hearts of many. The song’s lyrics, which promise love and dedication even in difficult times, make it a perfect choice for a first dance. The song speaks to the deep connection and unwavering support that a marriage should be built upon.
Why It Works: The lines, “Love your curves and all your edges, all your perfect imperfections,” celebrate the beauty of loving someone completely, flaws and all. It’s a wonderful reminder that true love is about embracing every part of your partner.
4. Queen – “You’re My Best Friend”
Who doesn’t love Queen? You’re My Best Friend is a lively and passionate song that adds a touch of fun to your first dance. The song’s upbeat tempo and lyrics about friendship and love make it a fantastic choice for couples who want to celebrate their romance and the strong bond of friendship that underlies their relationship.
Why It Works: The lyrics, “You’re my sunshine, and I want you to know that my feelings are true, I love you,” capture the essence of a relationship built on love and friendship. This song is perfect for couples who see each other as partners and best friends.
5. Etta James – “At Last”
At Last, by Etta James, is one of the most timeless and romantic songs ever written. Its smooth and flowing melody is perfect for a slow, intimate dance. The lyrics convey a sense of deep satisfaction and joy, making it an ideal choice for couples who want their first dance to reflect the emotional journey that brought them together.
Why It Works: The opening line, “At last, my love has come along, my lonely days are over,” is powerful and evocative, making it an excellent choice for couples waiting to find each other.
Additional Ideas For Your First Dance
If you’re still undecided, consider these ideas to make your first dance even more special:
- Personalise Your Song: If you and your partner have a song that holds special meaning in your relationship, consider using it, even if it’s not a typical wedding song. A personalised choice will make your first dance uniquely yours. This could be the song that played during your first date, the song that was on when you first said “I love you,” or simply a tune that reflects your shared experiences.
- Live Performance: Having your first dance song performed live by a band or singer can add more emotion and intimacy to the moment. A live performance also allows for a unique rendition of your chosen song, tailored to your preferences. You can even ask the band to slow down or speed up the tempo to fit your dance style perfectly.
- Dance Lessons: Consider taking dance lessons together to make your first dance memorable. A choreographed dance routine can be a fun way to surprise your guests and create a lasting memory. It’s also a great way to spend quality time together in the lead-up to your wedding, learning a new skill as a couple.
- Mashup Medley: If you and your partner have different musical tastes, consider a mashup of two or more songs. Start with a slow, romantic song and then surprise your guests by transitioning into a more upbeat tune that gets everyone on the dance floor. This can reflect your unique personality and shared love for music, turning your first dance into an exciting evening highlight.
- Involve Your Guests: If you want to add a communal touch to your first dance, consider inviting your guests to join in halfway through. This can create a warm and inclusive atmosphere, encouraging everyone to share their special moment’s joy. You might start with a solo dance, then have the DJ invite everyone to the floor for a big group celebration.
- Silent Disco First Dance: Consider a silent disco’s first dance for something unique. Guests wear wireless headphones that play your chosen song while you and your partner dance to the same tune. It creates an intimate moment for you while your guests enjoy a fun and modern twist. Afterwards, you can switch to a more traditional setup to get everyone involved.
- Outdoor Dance: If your wedding occurs outdoors, consider setting up a special area under the stars or string lights for your first dance. The natural setting can add a magical touch to your moment, and the fresh air combined with beautiful scenery will make your dance feel even more special.
These ideas can help make your first dance one of the most memorable parts of your wedding day, reflecting your personality as a couple and creating a unique experience for you and your guests.
Conclusion
Choosing the right song for your first dance is an important part of your wedding day. Whether you’re drawn to the heartfelt lyrics of Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud,” the soulful melody of Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together,” or the timeless romance of Etta James’ “At Last,” each of these songs has the power to make your first dance unforgettable.
At Vogue Ballroom, we understand the significance of every detail on your big day, especially the music. If you have a special song in mind that needs to be added to our list, we’re more than happy to accommodate your preferences. Your wedding should be as unique as your love story, and the music should reflect that.
FAQs About Wedding Songs
Which Type of Band Would Be Best for Your Wedding?
Go With a Great Live Band That Can Play a Wide Variety of Songs
Booking a fantastic band is a certain way to get the party started. Find a band that plays a wide range of music styles if you want to get people on their feet and dancing. Your older relatives (and maybe even some of the younger ones) might not enjoy dancing to 90s rock and pop music, so a band with a varied repertoire is the safest bet.
Should You Only Play Music From One Specific Genre at Your Wedding?
Don’t Fear the Crossover
Styles of popular, country, and rock music. Hip-hop. What links these seemingly disparate musical styles together (besides from a chart-topping single by Nelly, of course)? Any of these songs would fit well in at a wedding celebration. A wedding can have music from any era or style. What makes people joyful and get them in a dancing mood is of utmost importance. It stands to reason that you would have access to the entire range.
What Time Should the Band Begin Playing at a Wedding Reception?
If you want the guests to get up and dance, it’s best not to start the music right after dinner.
After two or three hours of sitting, guests are ready to get up and mingle after dinner and speeches have concluded; dancing is typically saved for later in the evening.
If you want to get the most out of the band’s performance, leave at least an hour between supper (or speeches) and the start of their first set.
At a Wedding, Where Is the Best Spot for the Band?
Map Out the Room
If you’re having a dance, ensure the band isn’t too far away and that there aren’t any tables blocking the way. The value of positioning the band right in front of the dance floor cannot be overstated. What makes a concert special is the buzz created by the interaction between the musician and the audience.
Can Partygoers Request Specific Songs From the Band?
Collect Requests in Advance
Guests may be more inclined to stay on the dance floor if they are able to request songs they particularly like. What’s the most effective strategy to handle inquiries? Your wedding website should provide a place for visitors to submit song suggestions for the reception. You can then evaluate them (in case your obnoxious relative decides to include that song he knows you loathe) before sending them on to your musical expert. Bandleaders and DJs often exclusively play songs requested by the bride and groom during receptions, and they may be reluctant to play requests from guests.
