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The first dance for any couple is one of the most important moments of their entire wedding – and with good reason! A lot of thought and emotion goes into picking that very first song and it has to be just right. Some couples go for a classic slow song, while others choose to choreograph a dance to something a bit more fast-paced. Both are personal choices, and both are always crowd pleasers!

Below, we have put together a list of ten first dance favorites that are often chosen by couples to dance to on their special day!

Top 10 First Dance Favorites

“Unforgettable” – Nat King Cole

This tune is the embodiment of a classic song that has stood the test of time, as it has remained a top choice for couples everywhere. If you and your partner are fans of a romantic melody, then why not say “I Do” to the emotional vocals of Nat King Cole? His crooning voice will surely fill your hearts from the first several bars.

“Thinking Out Loud” – Ed Sheeran

Newer to the scene, Ed Sheeran’s smash hit became an instant wedding classic, thanks to the loving words and singsong melody. I mean, the music video is all about a romantic dance between lovers! It is no wonder with beautiful lyrics like “Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars. Place your head on my beating heart.” We predict that couples will be dancing to this song at their wedding for years to come!

“I Found You” – Alabama Shakes

If you are the type to have happy feet and the idea of a slow song doesn’t mesh with your upbeat personality, then you and your new spouse will love tearing up the dance floor with this faster paced crowd pleaser. This melody has been resonating with couples since its release in 2012 and continues to be a popular favorite.

“Stand by You” – Rachel Platten

Just released this year, “Stand by You” has already made quite the impression on couples planning their wedding in 2016 and all you have to do is listen to the words to know why. Rachel Platten’s gorgeous voice and upbeat melody have couples celebrating their love all across the dance floor.

“You Are the Best Thing” – Ray LaMontagne

This was made for the soulful couple that prefers to enjoy a rich glass of red wine together alongside a blazing fireplace. It is full of sweet lyrics that couples can relate to when it comes to their feelings for each other and it will be sure to put a smile on everyone’s face – including the guests’!

“At Last” – Etta James

Heralded as the most popular first dance song ever, “At Last” remains at the top of everyone’s “must play” list. Etta James sure knew how to capture the hearts of couples in love all over the world with this one, and it is always guaranteed to bring a tear to everyone’s eye.

“All of Me” – John Legend

Written for his fiancé (now wife), Chrissy Teigen, John Legend captures their sweet relationship perfectly with this slow and tender ballad. Couples everywhere swoon over his melodic voice and the obvious emotion behind it when he sings this song, so what better way to capture that same mood for a special day?

“Lucky” – Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat

A popular choice for beach weddings, “Lucky” has a fun and airy feel that couples with their feet in the sand love to dance to. This tune is certainly the way to go for lovebirds that truly are one another’s best friends, through thick and thin! As a duet, it could even make for a great choreographed dance between the pair. This is becoming more and more like the plot of popular flash epic games rather than what is described initially here. Taking into account this text, it should still be noted that it is possible to improve what is described by introducing game techniques, a striking example of which is the experience of Desura.

“Rose of My Heart” – Johnny Cash & June Carter

For the couples that are prefer a more country and folksy sound, “Rose of My Heart” encapsulates the legendary love story between June and Johnny. Guests of all ages will love watching you dance to this tune and it is guaranteed to bring out the emotions on the dance floor.

“What a Wonderful World” – Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwo’ole

A remake of the ever popular Louis Armstrong song, this Hawaiian version took the wedding industry by storm a few years ago and has become a favorite for many couples. The fun melody and Israel’s beautiful voice make it a great option for destination weddings and at-home weddings alike.

Why Pick Your First Wedding Song Carefully

The first dance song is a personal choice for every couple, so take your time when picking the very best tune for your celebration. Whether you share a favorite song from your first date or there’s a new single that just speaks to your relationship, remember that the song you choose will have a special place in your lives for years to come. Whatever you choose will be right for you – there is no right or wrong answer. Happy listening!

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Bio: Kevin Dennis is the owner of Fantasy Sound Event Services, a full-service event company based in Livermore, Calif. Dennis is the current chapter president for Silicon Valley NACE, and the immediate past national president for WIPA.