Part of a wedding planner's job is to help their clients infuse every aspect of the wedding with personality and style, and the first wedding dance is no exception. Sure, some people have their reasons for choosing an old standby (Etta James' "At Last," anyone?), but the first dance at a wedding is the perfect time for a couple to make a statement about their unique relationship, their memories or their dreams for the future.
Still, many couples draw a blank when it comes to finding that one special song. Here is some advice for planners to share with their clients to help them along the way.
Find the tempo and mood that's right for you. Maybe it's slow and romantic, maybe it's gentle and whimsical, maybe it's upbeat and rockin'. Choosing the style of song that suits you will make you much more comfortable on the dance floor, and in some cases, can say a lot about your personalities!
Think back to experiences you've shared as a couple. Recall the movies and TV shows you've seen, concerts you've attended, even songs you heard together in a bar or another wedding. (Couples' nostalgia is what's made Dave Matthews a popular choice for wedding first dances!)
Look for innovative covers of old classics. Maybe a cool cover version exists of a song your parents or grandparents danced to at their own wedding. Cover songs are also a great way to work in some of today's artists in a way that appeals to a wide variety of ages.
Consider making your first and last dance a special surprise. One of you gets to choose the first dance, one chooses the last dance. Keep the songs a secret from one another, giving the titles and artists directly to the planner to share with the DJ or bandleader. The rush of surprise and emotion as each person hears the other's selection for the first time is guaranteed to make the wedding even more special.