Growing up, and even now, I've always imagined having the most beautiful wedding, complete with my favorite colors, flowers, and the perfect music at just the right moments. I think it's a pretty common feeling to dream about a special day just for you and the person you love. It can be the happiest day of our lives. And that first dance might be the pinnacle of the entire night. So, of course, you've got to pick the perfect song for you on your special day. Don't worry, though, we've got you covered. Here are ten great song ideas for your first dance as newlyweds!
10. Never Stop (Wedding Version) - SafetySuit
This is the classic song I think of when I think of a first dance. I mean, it has "wedding" in the title. How could it not be? But truly, this insanely heartfelt ballad is unforgettable, and you'd be surprised how many people haven't heard it. It's a unique choice, and if you want it to be a little more upbeat, the rock version is good too. It's a beautiful tribute to how true love never fades even as the years go by, and it's sure to leave your crowd with tears in their eyes.
9. Euphoria (DJ Swivel Forever Mix) - BTS
If you've read my articles before, you know I have to include a K-pop option, but it's not just that, it's the PERFECT K-Pop option. Even if you don't speak Korean, you can feel the emotion radiating off of this one. Euphoria is a solo piece by BTS member, Jeon Jungkook. The song, however, was originally written in English and composed by Candace Sosa, Melanie Fontana, and DJ Swivel. However, It transcends language in my opinion, as the music speaks for itself. This one would be perfect for a first dance with a choreographed big move like a dip or a spin. Just listen to that orchestra build!
8. Perfect/Thinking Out Loud/Tenerife Sea - Ed Sheeran
Okay, I think it's obvious that Ed Sheeran is the king of writing wedding songs at this point, but in case you didn't know, I'm listing three here because I can't even decide which one I like the most. "Perfect" and "Thinking Out Loud" are the ones we immediately think of, but I wanted to include the lesser-known "Tenerife Sea" as well. All of these songs are gorgeous tributes to loved ones with honest heartfelt emotion behind them. They've all got a mellow tempo, so any one of these songs would be great for learning simple choreography, even if you aren't dancers. Not to mention Ed just has a way with words. You can't listen to any of these without feeling something. You just can't.
7. Golden Hour - JVKE
Let me just start by saying I love this song. I really love this song. JVKE created something so creative and unique here. With almost ethereal piano runs and orchestral moments combined with modern sounds like snaps, sub-bass, and flawless vocals. This song is nothing short of a fairytale anthem. If your wedding has a fantasy or garden theme, or even if it's just being held at twilight, I feel like this song would fit right in. "Golden Hour" really lends something irreplicable to the atmosphere. It fits some traditional wedding vibes, but steps outside the lines just a little. It's a perfect balance if you have a mixed crowd and it's sure to bring a little magic to the party.
6. Think I'm Gonna Love You - Michal Leah and Caleb Hearn
Back in the category of straightforward and sweet love songs, "Think I'm Gonna Love You" hits the nail so hard on the head. This is a song you want to be staring into your partner's eyes during. The lyrics are simple, but oh so meaningful. There's nothing complicated to decipher here. It's just love. That's what makes this song so special. I really love it when so much emotion can be packed into just vocals and guitar. It really brings a sense of intimacy to the track. I think if you're shy about dancing in front of others, this is the song for you. You and your new spouse will surely forget there's anyone else in the room.
5. Infinitely Falling - Fly By Midnight
If you're looking for something a little faster, Fly By Midnight has your answer. "Infinitely Falling" feels like such a celebration of love. Paired with the contemporary dance in the music video, it's easy to see how this could be adapted for a wedding. The song's composition already feels like a romance novel, but there's also a "Romantic Redraw" version of this song, similar to SafetySuit's Wedding Version of Never Stop. It slows the song just a little, applying more acoustic instruments and background vocals for just a touch more feeling. Personally, I feel like either version could create a beautiful and unforgettable memory.
4. Everything to Me - Porter Robinson
This song is brand new. I mean really new. Porter Robinson gifted us his new album, "Smile! :D" at just the end of July, so this is an awesome surprise to add to this list. "Everything to Me" is a somber love song with such an open and raw feeling behind it. It tells the story of two lovers meeting, the way things feel like they're happening so fast, but you just don't care. The love is so strong and you just want more of it. It really embodies that feeling of being okay with being vulnerable with someone. I think this might be the softest and slowest of all the songs on this list, making it the perfect tune to hold someone close to. There's no need for fanfare here. Just closeness. "It's you and me and the air in between."
3. Lover of Mine - Louyah
This one might be a little lesser-known, but it sure is beautiful. The independent artist, Louyah, released this gem in 2022 and I can't seem to get it out of my head since. Many of Louyah's works have this folksy vibe to them, and this is no exception. It's a down-to-earth little tune that feels so appreciative and safe. It's like a warm musical hug. And I think your wedding attendees might agree. If you're having a smaller wedding or even no reception at all, it's a heartfelt little song to celebrate and reflect with. Whether you're with a big crowd or dancing in your living room, I think this is a great versatile choice for a first dance.
2. Imagine - Ben Platt (Acoustic)
If you're a fan of Broadway, you might recognize Ben Platt for his starring role in the musical, "Dear Evan Hansen". That's where I originally discovered his vocal talents. However, Ben has some really notable solo works as well. One such song is "Imagine", a truly gorgeous love song that feels beyond happy and free. Ben's vocal runs make this song feel so powerful and heartfelt. It's a sweet and sappy little reminder that we really can't imagine life without our partners. It makes you stop and think and appreciate the joy of having found the perfect person, and I really love that. I've chosen the acoustic version for this list, but there exists a more upbeat version as well. The original version is a bit poppier, and if that's what you're looking for, it works just as well!
1. Your Bones - Chelsea Cutler (Acoustic)
For those times when you just want to scream it to the world that you love someone, this is the song for you. I have personally heard this one performed live and it is pure magic. There's no embellishment here. No fancy vocabulary or overtly poetic wording. This is just "bare bones" love. (haha.) It's a meaningful little song about the shock and awe of finding something real with someone. In the blink of an eye, you've gone from single to too-good-to-be-true and you can't figure out why or how, but you are so happy it happened. This one fills me with nostalgia, as it really frames the passing of time. I think this is a wonderful first dance song for those who just want to remember how good it feels to love one another so freely.
Thank you so much for reading through our list of songs to have your first dance to. I really hope you found some inspiration here or at least a new song to lend a listen to. How did you feel about the list? Would you dance to these at your wedding? Maybe you already have. Feel free to let us know on our socials below!
Written By Shelbi Baker
*copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.