So many different elements come together to make the perfect wedding day and its always the big ones which take precedence; the venue, the weather, the dress, the meal. But one aspect which stresses out couples-to-be is the first dance.
I’ve spent over four years presenting the Love Zone on Dublins Q102, and I’ve always loved hearing from couples who ask me to play their first dance song. You can tell from chatting to them, how fondly they remember the moment. From romantic slow dances to rehearsed routines. I’ve heard it all. When you get it right, it has the potential to a highlight of the day.
But its often up there with the speeches as a cause for stress on the day. The bride may feel she can’t dance too much in her dress; the groom may just be so shy he doesn’t want to dance in front of his mates. But worry not, I’ve compiled a shortlist of my top ten suggestions. From romantic slow sets, to party tunes that will get everyone up on the floor with you, here’s some first dance inspiration.
It Had To Be You – Harry Connick Jnr
A timeless classic oozing with sensuous romance and a nice tempo which allows a simple rehearsed dance break if that’s your thing. Check it out here
Everything – Michael Bublé
Michael Bublé is my guilty pleasure and I love it when listeners ask for ‘Everything’. If you’re not a great dancer, this is a safe one as you can just let your partner twirl you around the floor.
You Make My Dreams Come True – Hall & Oates
If you want to get the party started, then this 1980s hit will do just that. Indeed, if you’re shy about dancing, this is for you. The floor won’t be empty for too long and it will set the party tone for the rest of the evening.
Elton John – Can You Feel The Love Tonight
It may from the mid 90s, but its already in the ‘timeless classic’ camp. It’s an old favourite bursting with romance. Give it a listen.
Make You Feel My Love – Adele
This one comes with a warning. Its so beautiful that if this is your first dance, you and your new partner will be the only two people in the room. Everything else just disappears into the background. Your guests will be saying ‘Get a room’…. In a good way.
Can’t Help Falling In Love – Elvis Presley
Lets be honest, Elvis is still the coolest King of them all. And this hit, with its gentle waltz tempo will dazzle your guests. Check it out on YouTube and imagine your white dress swishing around the floor. Magical.
Bruno Mars – Just The Way You Are
Another floor filler that will get the party started but be warned if your first dance makes it on to YouTube, know that there is stiff competition from some well rehearsed routines.
I’ve Had The Time Of My Life – Dirty Dancing
This Dirty Dancing hit is a risky one; a VERY risky one. It’s a definite crowd pleaser. Its begging for a rehearsed routine but as you can imagine, when it goes right, it’s a showstopper and when it goes wrong…. It goes very wrong. Only attempt the lift if you have the appropriate health insurance.
Ed Sheeran
Ed is currently one of the most requested musicians on the radio when it comes to first dances. A handful of his songs lend themselves to the first dance right now but perhaps the most popular right now is Perfect. A beautiful song with the potential for a little ‘Strictly’ routine if you’re brave enough.
At Last – Etta James
Another timeless classic, this one proves the oldies are the best. I recently had a request on the radio from a man who wanted to play it for his wife of 55 years. The song was still reasonably new when they got married in 1963 and it was their first dance. He sings it to her still every year for their anniversary. I think there’s something in my eye….
Conor is an accredited wedding celebrant. Check out instagram.com/conorclearcelebrant/ for wedding ideas and inspiration or head online to www.conorclear.com to get in touch.
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