Weddings are remarkable events filled with so many unforgettable moments. So many little details give this occasion its unique and magical touch. As you’re trying to assemble your day’s timeline, you shouldn’t forget about your first dance. After all, this is more than just your ‘5 minutes on the dance floor’. It’s a way to create a memory that will last a lifetime. So, how do you make your wedding first dance memorable?
At Wedding Style Society, we are striving to help couples make the most out of their day. Therefore, we’re here to share our best tips related to the first dance. From informing you about the general etiquette to listing the most popular songs to dance to, this blog contains all you need to know about planning the perfect dance for your wedding!
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The tradition behind the wedding first dance
Before we delve into the best song choices and dance styles, let’s talk about where this tradition comes from. The first dance at a wedding originates from the time when aristocrats used to host grand balls. On these occasions, the guest of honor would open the dance floor. With time, this tradition has become what we know today: the newlyweds taking to the dance floor as a symbolic gesture to start the celebration. In some cultures, however, the first dance is seen as a representation of the couple’s future together. It symbolizes unity and sets the perfect tone for starting the new chapter in the couple’s life.
First wedding dance etiquette
Some brides are all about sticking to traditions, while others want to host a modern event. Regardless of your preference, there are some parts of the wedding first dance etiquette you would probably like to stick to.
The Order of Dances
Traditionally, the bride and the groom open the dance floor by dancing together first. Then comes the dance between the bride and her father and the groom and his mother. The meaning behind this is that the bride and groom are both welcomed into their new families. Afterward, the bridal party may join in, and the other guests follow. If this dance format feels right for you, go for it! However, if you would like to keep it simple, there’s also an alternative. You can decide to be completely alone with your partner for your first dance and then open the floor to everyone who wants to join.
The length of the song
According to the etiquette, the song you choose for your wedding first dance should be around two to three minutes long. This is long enough to capture the moment but short enough to keep the guests engaged. However, if you have a special song that’s longer, or you just love the idea of dancing for a few extra minutes, don’t feel bound by this guideline.
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Choreography vs going with the flow
Some couples feel more comfortable when they have a fully choreographed routine. Others, however, prefer to keep things simple and sway together more naturally. The traditional route would lean towards a simple, elegant dance. But if you and your partner are up for it, a choreographed routine can be a fun way to surprise your guests with a lovely dance for a wedding.
Best wedding song ideas
Looking for the perfect song for your wedding first dance? Whether you’re interested in a timeless classic or want to dance to a modern tune, our curated list of songs contains both options. Here are some of our personal favorites you can consider:
- “Endless Love,” by Diana Ross and Lionel Richie
- “Always and Forever,” by Heatwave
- “Best Part,” by Daniel Caesar Featuring H.E.R.
- “Because You Loved Me,” by Céline Dion
- “The Very Thought of You,” by Billie Holiday
- “Marry You” by Bruno Mars
- “Your Song” by Elton John
- “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley
- “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne
- “Take The World” by Johnnyswim
- “Lover” by Taylor Swift
- “Lucky” by Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat
- “All of Me” by John Legend
- “Baby I’m Yours” by Arctic Monkeys
- “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
Taking some dance lessons is the key
Planning for your big day is a stressful venture on its own. So, being nervous about your first dance shouldn’t be another reason for feeling anxious. To help you out, we’ve created a list of dance studios that will help you nail your wedding first dance!
Urbanity Dance Chicago
Located in Chicago, Illinois, this dance studio is the best place to learn some timeless or urban moves. They have a special Urbanity Wedding Dance Program, which covers every important detail of your dream dance. They offer individual lessons, allowing you to connect to your partner and making sure you have a memorable experience.
Arthur Murray Dance Studio Manchester
What better way to begin your life together than with a wedding dance to remember? The team at Arthur Murray Dance Centers will ensure you and your partner learn some special moves.
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A Perfect Wedding Dance
Driven by their motto, “You don’t have to be a dancer to have a confident and awe-inspiring wedding dance”, the team at A Perfect Wedding Dance is eager to make couples feel confident on the dancefloor. They will analyze your movements and offer practical advice that will help you dance ‘the perfect dance’ on your big day!
Elite Dance Studio
With studios located in New Hampshire and Nevada, the team at Elite Dance Studios is happy to create the perfect choreography for your first wedding dance. They offer private lessons and are focused on bringing the best out of each couple.
We truly hope that the information we shared above will help you create the perfect wedding first dance. At the Wedding Style Society, we know how daunting planning for your big day can be. To help each couple out, we’ve created a directory of service providers that will cater to your specific needs. Feel free to explore it and find the ideal vendor that will contribute to making your day unforgettable.
