Little fun fact about me: I repeatedly listen to my couples’ First Dance songs as I edit their galleries. There’s a few reasons I do this. First, it helps me recall the day more closely (something about music just sticks memories into my brain like glue).

Second, the First Dance song is picked by the bride and groom as a representation of their unique relationship. So, by listening to it while editing their photos, I feel inspired to represent their wedding accurately through my editing.

Third, the First Dance song is so emotional and special. I feel like every time I hear each of my couples’ songs I relive their special day (and I bet they feel the same)!

As an engaged couple, choosing your First Dance song can be a simple detail in the long string of planning to-dos. Or it can be a process of vetoing each others ideas back and forth trying to find compromise. Or perhaps you two have had a special song your entire relationship, and the choice is a clear one!

This post is for the first 2 couples. If you have your song picked out, yay!! Proud of y’all! It’s going to be so special! But you don’t need my help in this area. So now I turn to the couples reading this that are having a tougher time making a decision.

I’ve photographed enough weddings to hear some really great First Dance songs! I’m proud to say that the couples I served were really creative. I’ve yet to encounter a cliche song choice. So if you’re looking for that perfect song for you and your soon-to-be spouse to dance to at your reception, look no further!

Here is a list of my absolute favorite First Dance songs to date!!

Ideas for First Dance Songs

For the Old Souls

“(I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons” by Nat King Cole

“My Girl” performed by Tiago Lorc

“Can’t Help Falling In Love” performed by Haley Reinhart

“It’s Been a Long, Long Time” by Harry James

For the Country Lovers

“Made for You” by Jake Owen

“On My Way to You” by Cody Johnson

“One Man Band” by Old Dominion

“Millionaire” by Chris Stapleton

For the Deep Romantics

“Never Letting Go (feat. Troy Laureta)” by Connor Duermit

“You Are The Reason” by Calum Scott

“Make You Feel My Love” performed by Adele

“River” by Emeli Sandé

For the Lives of the Party

“Come to Me” by The Goo Goo Dolls

“Say Hey (I Love You)” by Michael Franti & Spearhead

“No Matter Where You Are” by Us The Duo

“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” performed by Ben Rector

For the Individualists

“Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root

“You’ve Got a Friend in Me – Acoustic” performed by Amber Leigh Irish

“Good Day for Marrying You” by Dave Barnes

“Bright” by Echosmith

For the Three-Strands (Christian love songs)

“Love Like This” by Lauren Daigle

“Known” by Tauren Wells

“When I Say I Do” performed by Matthew West

“Fighting For Me – Piano Version” by Riley Clemmons

For the Modernists

“Lover” by Taylor Swift

“I Like Me Better” by LAUV

“The Bones” by Maren Morris

“Butterflies” by Kacey Musgraves

For the Ones Who Waited Their Whole Lives

“Waited for You” by Private Drive, Toby Freeman

“The Day Before You – Acoustic” by Matthew West

“At Last” performed by Kina Grannis

“Prayed For You – Acoustic” by Matt Stell

Having a hard time choosing still? I’ve added all of these songs to a Spotify playlist for you!! Shuffle through until one really hits you, or copy and add to it for your own inspiration.