If you’re planning a killer dance party at your reception, you’re probably thinking about your first dance as a married couple.

“Will we choreograph something epic? Learn to ballroom dance? Simply sway to the rhythm wrapped in each other’s arms?”

There are so many ways to make your first dance memorable. And I believe it all starts with a solid song choice. There are tons of incredible songs out there, and as a wedding photographer, I’ve heard the most popular songs several times over–and for good reason. They are catchy and romantic, all around quality tunes. While there are so many traditional love songs for your wedding dance, you can choose to break from tradition!

Couples often choose a classic or trendy love song to commemorate their first dance together. I think a lot of times these songs are picked because they’re familiar, easy and low stress. A default option, which again, is totally great! But, if you’re looking to shake it up from the popular love songs, I’ve curated a playlist of first dance song choices guaranteed to be memorable and meaningful. As a bonus? The lyrics pass the vibe check.

For upbeat romance:

Naked by Jake Scott
Falling For You by Clay Finnesand
Glad You Exist by Dan + Shay
Endlessly by Green River Ordinance

For a little bit country:

Made For You by Jake Owen
Old with You by Chuck Wicks
Dance with Me by Morgan Evans + Kelsea Ballerini

For less gendered love songs:

My Person by Spencer Crandall
Dance with Me by Caleb + Kelsey

For singing and swaying:

Hold You Til We’re Old by Jamie Miller
Simply the Best by The Hound and the Fox
Fallin’ by Dylan Brady

I’ve compiled all these songs (and many more) into a playlist over on Spotify. Click here to deep dive into all my current favorite First Dance Songs.

In addition to picking your song, you and your partner should decide how you want to dance. Are you going to practice any twirls and spins? Do you need to take any dance classes to learn the waltz? Or maybe a two-step is more your speed? Thinking critically about this portion of your wedding day will help you feel more confident and relaxed during your first dance!

If you’re feeling shy about being in the spotlight, try changing up where and when you share your special dance. For instance, you could:

• Have your first dance during your first look or during newlywed portrait time
• Have your first dance immediately as you enter the reception and before eating dinner
• Have your first dance be the last dance of the evening as your guests line up for a send off

The good news is you don’t have to be a good dancer to enjoy this meaningful part of your wedding day. In fact, if you’re not a good dancer, this is a great excuse to be goofy and have fun!

Wedding Photographer Pro Tip:

Invite your loved ones and guests to get out of their seats and crowd around you as you two spin around the dance floor. Your guests will cherish the opportunity to be close to you during such a special part of your wedding day, and it’s so fun to look back on photos of your loved ones reacting to the feeling in that moment.

Above all, a killer first dance sets the stage for an epic dance floor.

I can’t wait to party with you.

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Your wedding day is full of firsts, so you should check out this post featuring first look planning tips and advice!