First Dance
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First Dance

Anyone who's attended a wedding has seen the first dance.  The newlyweds first dance as husband and wife. It takes place immediately after entering the reception site  following the announcement of the bridal party.  Typically, it is a slow dance set to romantic music, but that doesn't mean that it has to be corny or boring. You might choose a wedding song  that is traditional and upbeat or a sensuous romantic tune. You might even opt for something with a little more of a beat to it, perhaps R&B music.  Are you having a beach wedding?  Maybe reggae  is more your style. Formal wedding?  How about classy swing?  The point is that there are no rules, except that your song should make you both feel comfortable while dancing in front of your friends and family (not to mention a beat that's easy to dance to).

In order to get a song that has the right feel to it, whether it be traditional, romantic, hip, or dramatic, the bride and groom should sit down together and discuss what style songs would make them most happy. To the couple:

  • Which phrases in love songs speak to your hearts?
  • Do you already have a song you relate to or a favorite artists you'd like to use?
  • What type of music  do you typically listen and dance to?
  • What song is it that makes you both a little weak in the knees for each other?

Here are some suggestions for choosing the right style song:

  • If your wedding is traditional...

Your wedding is elegant and classy with just enough emphasis placed on style. You want your dance to be in key with the traditional wedding customs, and by no means is this a custom to pass up. The song will be romantic with great lyrics, a beat that's fit for the perfect slow dance, and will be sung by a traditional crooner, such as Sinatra,  Etta James,  Nat King Cole,  Billy Holiday,  or Ella Fitzgerald. 

  • If your wedding is romantic...

You are typically caught gazing into each others eyes, taking long walks, and exchanging romantic words. The song you choose for your first dance will no doubt be of the romantic kind with sentimental lyrics that will make the guests want to cry for joy. Choose something such as "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong,  "Come What May" from the Moulin Rouge soundtrack,  "It Had to Be You" by Harry Connick Jr.,  or "Lovin' You" by Minnie Riperton. 

  • If your wedding is unique...

You aren't fond of sticking to the traditional and your wedding speaks loads about your one-of-a-kind personalities. Choosing a first dance song is all about making the wedding personalized to you and your partner. So, to add a twist, choose a song that puts a quirky, modern, or hip vibe into the air. You might even opt for something slightly humorous.

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External Links

When in doubt about which song is the right one, check out some of these links that have all sorts of music to choose from. Sometimes it can inspire you or remind you of an old classic that you and your partner will love.

  • Wedding Vendors -- An alphabetical list of contemporary songs that work for a romantic first dance. There are also lists of music for other moments in the reception.
  • About.com -- 88 great songs for a first dance.
  • TheKnot.com -- Classic first dance songs.
  • WeddingTips.com -- 400 first wedding songs categorized by type of song and you can even hear a sound clip.
  • Now You're Dancing -- Want to do a swing, fox trot, or waltz? This site has songs organized by the dance you can do to them.
  • FirstDance.com
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Wedding Ceremony And Reception		 Article started by an unknown userlast updated by 
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