The couple’s first dance might have originated from balls of the past or even older traditions from Egypt. Wherever the tradition came from, it is now a staple amongst wedding receptions. The first dance is when the Bride and Groom dance together for the first time after being married. Now, some couples opt for elaborate choreographed routines that require rehearsals and lessons. Other couples choose to allow the moment to be spontaneous. Many might be shocked to learn that for years the couple would not be the first on the dance floor, but instead invite their guests to dance. They would then join the guests making sure to dance with each other before accepting offers for other dance partners.
What music is traditional for a first dance?
A slow dance or ballroom dance would be the most traditional choice. Music and style preferences have changed over the years. Some of the most popular first dance songs of all time are:
Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers
All of Me – John Legend
Amazed – Lonestar
At Last – Etta James
Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
Can’t Help Falling In Love – Elvis
I am sure you have heard one if not all of these at a wedding many times. (I can definitely say that I have.) The best way to pick your first dance song is finding something with meaning
behind it. I find if there is a story to connect to, then it is more memorable for guests and it gives you as a couple a special moment.
Thinking back to weddings I have been blessed to witness, there is a list of first dances that stand out to me. There was a couple who had a summer wedding who danced to a Christmas song because it had significance in their relationship. Now, if you don’t have a special connection with any particular piece of music and are looking for a nice song to dance to then that is okay too. Here is a list of the most popular first dance songs of 2022:
Perfect – Ed Sheeran
Black and White – Niall Heran
Lover – Taylor Swift
Speechless – Dan + Shay
Stuck With U – Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber
Now, maybe you aren’t interested in a traditional first dance. Couple’s have replaced it with starting the reception with a champagne tower or performing a song together. The symbolism in sharing something together for the first time as a married couple can be applied to other hobbies or interests like video games, hula hoops, jump rope, shots of alcohol, etc. I attended a wedding where the couple opted for a choreographed lightsaber duel with dramatic music and lighting. As a guest, I will never forget that first dance, but at the end of the night it is YOUR wedding and you should do something you two want to share together.
My own first dance was simple and spontaneous. My husband had found a song that really connected with us early on in our relationship and I surprised him with it as our first dance song. Just remember, your first dance shouldn’t be stressful. It should be a time of joy and fun for you and your spouse.
By Alexandria Kramer
Photos:
1. Photo by Melissa Decker Photography
2. Photo by Arielle Peters Photography
3. Photo by Arielle Peters Photography
4. Photo by OMG Photography
