The first dance is one wedding tradition that has grown in size and stature over the course of the last few years. From well-timed waltzes and choreographed spectacles to those dances employing a little more creativity, it’s fair to say that we’ve seen it all during our sixty years in the business.
The first dance marks a couple’s first foray into married life as they navigate a series of choreographed steps in front of those who will love and support them in the years ahead. You might even say that this dance is a couple’s first experience of the teamwork that marriage requires to succeed. It’s little wonder, then, that many soon-to-be-wed couples take the matter of picking a first dance song so seriously.
Pick a song with sentimental value
Is there a particular song that sticks out from your relationship so far? It could be the song that was playing when you first met, the tune that you first slow-danced to or a melody that was sung when a beloved relative or friend got married. Whatever the song, there’s a chance that you’ve decided that it’s “your song.”
Such a ditty is a popular choice for that first dance. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to first dances, so opt for a song that will forever remind you of the occasion and elicit happy memories as soon as those opening bars chime.
Think about the theme of your wedding
It’s becoming increasingly popular for couples to theme their big days with décor, favours and outfits to match the occasion. If you’re having such a wedding, then consider how your first dance might fit your overriding motif.
Retro brides and grooms may choose to include some Elvis, for example, while a period wedding at a spectacular venue such as Hengrave Hall near Bury St Edmunds may inspire traditional Tudor dancing and a song that matches. Anything goes, as long as you’re able to enjoy a little boogie.
Listen to the lyrics
Another popular way to choose a first dance song is to pick lyrics that mean something or at least reflect your feelings for one another. Whether it’s a funny song or something more heartfelt, those lyrics will follow you throughout your relationship, so choose wisely.
It’s also a good idea to listen to the rhythm of the song. Is it a slow dance or a jive? What kind of dancing could you expect to do to its melody? Also consider whether you’ll be choreographed or merely shuffling whilst holding one another tightly.
Choose your favourite artist
Is there a band or artist whom you and your intended happen to enjoy? Have you been to particular kinds of concerts together or listened intently to music on a rainy day? Choosing music that you both like is important – it would be difficult to coordinate a first dance to a song that only one of you has a passion for.
Take a look at what’s popular
Of course, if you’re really stuck for inspiration, take a look at online wedding blogs or have a quick glance through a wedding magazine or two. This should give you some idea of what other brides and grooms are dancing to and may remind you of a song that you like that didn’t immediately come to mind. Don’t be afraid to copy someone else’s idea if you really love it; we’re sure that they wouldn’t mind if it means that your day is as special as theirs.
Some things to think about
When it comes to picking a first dance song, it’s wise to consider a few factors, such as timing, the space that you have available and your guests. How long will you be expected to dance alone? Will your guests eventually join you on the dance floor? Is yours an intimate wedding or one with a little more legroom? A venue such as Le Talbooth in Colchester can be tailored to suit intimate weddings and larger occasions, enabling you to let your imagination run free.
We hope that this post has given you a little inspiration. Remember, your first dance is supposed to be fun, so don’t allow yourselves to get too wrapped up in getting it right if you’ve set your heart on something different.
