Trying to avoid the tired and overdone when it comes to your wedding? Here are 27 of our favorite fresh songs for your first dance as a married couple, as well as your dances with your parents:
Bride and Groom’s First Dance:
1. As the World Falls Down, David Bowie
After much deliberation, this is the one we chose for our own wedding in November 2018. It’s a gorgeous song, a little funky, and very romantic. Extra special if you were a fan of The Labyrinth.
In my opinion, this is one of the most romantic songs out there without being too in-your-face about it. It’s also the perfect speed for a slow dance.
3. I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles), Sleeping at Last
Try not to cry with this cover of the fun original. This song would work just as well to walk down the aisle to, as well.
This one is definitely unique, but’s a very cool song and could work well for edgy couples.
Looking for a sexier song for your first dance as husband and wife? It’s this one. You’re welcome.
6. All Through the Night, Sleeping at Last
The perfect combination of fun and happy but sexy and passionate.
7. First Day of My Life, Bright Eyes
This is just the sweetest lil’ song our ears ever did hear.
8. As Long as You Love Me, Sleeping at Last
Clearly we’re really into the Sleeping at Last covers. (But hey, for good reason.)
For those of you with an airy, easy-breezy-lemon-squeezy type of love.
Mother-Son Dance:
1. 93 Million Miles, Jason Mraz
2. You’ve Got a Friend, Carole King
3. Keep Your Head Up, Ben Howard
Even if you don’t choose this for your mother-son dance, download this one anyway for when you need a quick cheer-up.
5. House of Gold, Twenty-One Pilots
This one is a tad dark, but hey, what can ya do.
LOVE this one for a mother-son dance.
7. You’ll be in my Heart, Phil Collins
This one may not count as still being “unique,” as it has definitely be done before. But it’s still such a good contender and deserves to be considered (unless you’re like me and can’t NOT think of this Tarzan scene and cry).
8. I Say a Little Prayer, Aretha Franklin
Some versions of this song have one or two more “romantic” lines, so try to look for a version or edit that works appropriately on a mom-and-son level.
9. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
This faster pace would be great for a more upbeat routine if you’re trying to keep it feeling light!
Father-Daughter Dance:
A perfect choice if you’re looking for non-sappy but still with some feeling. Make sure you check out the slow and demo versions.
Does your dad like classic rock? Are you trying to avoid his plea to dance to Guns N’ Roses? Meet your compromise.
3. You are the Best Thing, Ray LaMontagne
A seriously classy and fun jam.
4. Cecelia and the Satellite, Andrew McMahon
With touching lyrics like, “For all the things my hands have held, the best by far is you,” you’d think this one would be too sappy. But the upbeat and catchy tune makes it a perfect blend.
5. When You Need Me, Bruce Springsteen
6. It’s For My Dad, Nancy Sinatra
Consider this one especially if your wedding has a vintage vibe.
Neil has a long list of awards for a reason.
8. Walk With You, Edwin McCain
This one is specifically all about walking your daughter down the aisle on her wedding day, and makes sure to include your husband-to-be in the love.
9. Just The Way You Are, Billy Joel
We’ve filmed and photographed enough weddings to know how important the song choices are for these dances, so we sincerely hope this helps get you on the right track! We love chatting about weddings, so contact us anytime at www.socialshot.com if there is anything we can help with!
Best of luck throughout the rest of your wedding planning journey!
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