Your first dance as a married couple is one of the most memorable moments of your wedding day. It’s a chance to celebrate your love, reflect on your journey together, and mark the beginning of a new chapter. With all the emotion tied to that special moment, the best first dance song will be the one that feels right for both of you, whether you’re leaning towards something classic, modern, or unique.

At inTUNE, we understand how to curate poignant moments with music. Find the perfect first dance song for your wedding with our expert tips.

unique first dance songs — Photo by: Anne Edgar

Reflect On Your Relationship

The best songs for your first wedding dance will reflect your unique love story. It could be a song that has a special meaning to your relationship, like the one that played on your first date, or a song with lyrics that express how you feel about each other. If you have a shared love for a particular genre or artist, consider choosing something that captures that vibe. The key is to make sure the song represents who you are as a couple.

Consider the Tempo and Dance Style

The tempo of the song plays a huge role in how your first dance will feel. Some couples prefer a slow dance to a classic first dance song, while others might select an alternative first dance song that is more upbeat or even quirky, like a classic rock ballad. If you're planning on doing a choreographed routine, it's essential to pick a song that complements your dance moves. If you're more of an improv dancer, go for something simple and easy to follow. You want to feel comfortable and confident during this intimate moment, so make sure the tempo fits your dancing style.

Lyrics Matter

The lyrics of your first dance song should evoke the feelings you want to convey. Avoid songs that are too sad or have conflicting messages. For example, while some love songs are beautiful, their lyrics might not be appropriate for such an important moment if they’re about heartbreak or separation. Instead, choose a song whose lyrics express love, commitment, or joy. Songs about starting a life together, celebrating love, or being with your best friend are perfect for this occasion.

Personalize It

You don’t have to stick to what's traditional or choose from the most popular first dance songs! While classics like “At Last” by Etta James or “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers are timeless, you can also personalize the moment by choosing a song that's unique to you. Classic indie songs like "First Day of My Life" by Bright Eyes, a selection from your favourite rom-com movie soundtrack, or simply a song by your favourite artist are all great first dance song ideas. Infusing your personality into your song choice is a surefire way to create a lasting memory on your special day.

Test It Out

The first time dancing to your song shouldn't be at the wedding reception. Before you make the final decision, take the song for a test spin on the dance floor. Play it together and imagine yourselves dancing to it. Does it feel right? Are the lyrics meaningful to both of you? Do you feel comfortable with the rhythm? You may even want to practice a few steps to see how the song flows with your dance moves. If the song feels natural and special, it’s likely the one you should go with.

Hitting the Ideal Length

Keep the song’s length in mind when choosing it. A song that's too long might make you feel uncomfortable, and you don’t want to be awkwardly standing there for too long. On the flip side, a song that's too short may leave you feeling like the moment ended too soon. The perfect song will be around three to four minutes long, giving you enough time to savour the moment but not drag it out. Our DJ team is experienced in helping with this and would be happy to suggest the perfect fade-out point for whichever song you choose.

Songs to Spark Your Imagination

Still not sure what's right for you? Take some inspiration from us! Here's a curated mix of legends and modern first dance songs that blend sentiment, style, and power.

Perfect by Ed Sheeran: A romantic go-to with heartfelt lyrics and a dreamy melody.
All of Me by John Legend: An Emotional and soulful song written as a tribute to true love.
Your Song by Elton John: A beautiful classic that's simple, sincere, and timeless.
The Way You Look Tonight by Frank Sinatra: Elegant and nostalgic, perfect for those who love a vintage vibe.
My Love by Paul McCartney: A tender and heartfelt ballad that also brings vintage romance.
A Thousand Years by Christina Perri: A modern classic that’s both cinematic and deeply romantic.
The Only Exception by Paramore: A sweet and emotional choice for couples who want something a little different.
You Are the Best Thing by Ray LaMontagne: An upbeat first dance song that is full of joy for couples who want to keep the energy light and loving.
Unforgettable by Nat King Cole: A smooth, timeless classic that lives up to its name - pure elegance for your first dance.
Better Together by Jack Johnson: Laid-back and warm, this song captures the essence of being perfectly in sync with your partner.

Don’t Overthink It and Enjoy the Moment

While it’s important to choose a song that means something to you, remember that it’s just one part of your big day. Don’t get too stressed out over the decision. Your wedding guests are there to surround you with love and support, and the song you pick will become a cherished memory for your whole life, no matter what it is.

Let Us Be a Part of Your First Dance

Choosing your first dance song is one of the most special moments in wedding planning, and we're here to ensure that moment comes to life seamlessly. Reach out today – we look forward to learning more about you and your vision!

Your Story Through Sound: Tips for Choosing Unique First Dance Songs