Of all the songs played at your wedding, the first dance tune is one of the most important. Many music lovers would say it sets the scene for the rest of your life. But deciding on that special song isn't always easy. Choosing a cake flavour out of 100 delicious options was hard enough. How many love songs are there in the universe?
I've curated a Spotify playlist of wedding songs to inspire your search. Maybe one of the ditties will even be the one. If I do photograph you shimmying on the dance floor to one of these songs, it will put a smile on my face. There are few classics you will recognise and maybe some that are new to your ears.
Choosing a song that isn't typical for a first dance is a great way to surprise your guests and put your own unique stamp on the moment. It's refreshing to see the newlyweds dancing to something unexpected. If you like a bit of country music, you might like Until Death Do Them Part by Paul Kelly. Northern Sky by Nick Drake is another soulful melody that is sweet for a first dance.
Your dance style will influence your song choice. If you are a shy couple who doesn't crave the spotlight, you might choose a simple song and get the DJ or your MC to call the bridal party to the dance floor halfway through the song. After that, usually, everyone hits the dance floor for a wave of boogying and you can relax. A short and sweet first dance is fine. All I need is enough time to get that iconic first dance photo of just the two of you.
Or you might be a super dancing duo planning a choreographed dance with several songs blended. It's always fun when a couple starts with a slow song and then breaks into something fun and upbeat. It impresses your loved ones and looks fab in the wedding photos and video.
Think of songs that evoke fond memories of your times together, make playlists to send each other and explore new music in your quest to find the perfect song. Always download the lyrics and read them through right to the end. Many songs that sound like love songs are actually about unrequited love and breakups, which will not be suitable for your first dance, obviously. It's a surprising mistake many couples make when choosing the music for their wedding video highlights too.
If you get really stuck, you can also ask your band or DJ for ideas. Take your time to decide because this is a number that will be playing in your mind forever. It will always trigger emotions of that moment when you danced in each other's arms and maybe even forgot everyone was watching just for a few moments.
Matt Elliott Photos & Films acknowledges the traditional owners of the land we operate on, the Bunurong people of the South-Eastern Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We recognise the resilience, strength and pride of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. We acknowledge that sovereignty has never been ceded.
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