How to Find a Unique First Dance Song

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Each week, we'll feature wedding music recommendations from Scratch Weddings, the nation's leader with the best wedding DJs at affordable prices. This week's post comes from DJ Von, a San Francisco native with nearly two decades of experience cutting his chops at San Fran hot spots. He has become a go-to DJ in San Francisco for large-scale openings, galas, fundraisers and weddings. He's a master at blending genres, from current pop to obscure classics, and creating an infectious mix of music to keep the dance floor packed. "A couple's wedding day is one of the most memorable days of their lives, and is full of good energy. It's exciting to be a part of that energy by providing the soundtrack for their day."


Photo: Amanda Marie Photography

Your first dance should definitely be to a song that's sentimental to both of you. Maybe you heard the song on your first dance and it reminds you of that date every time you hear it. It doesn't matter if it's not a popular song or easily recognizable by the guests at the wedding; as long as the two of you will be taken back to that moment  as you're dancing to it.

Keep in mind that it should definitely be danceable, too. In fact, the only time I would suggest using a song that does not have some sentimental value or attachment is if your first dance is choreographed and the song chosen is to accommodate the choreography.

It's also becoming popular these days to have your first dance song remixed, mashed-up, or even made original just for your big day. Virtually all Scratch Weddings DJs are producers as well and can handle a remix or mash-up. I've also seen friends or family members of the couple creating an original piece and singing it live for the first dance. Nice touch!

One other thing to remember is that you can't predict how fast or slow the time may pass while you're up there in front of everyone. In my experience, three minutes is about the maximum anyone lasts. You can ask your DJ to cut the music at a designated time or agree on a signal when you want to cut the song. Or, open the floor to your guests halfway through.

If you don’t have a song that’s special to you both and are looking for something that hasn't been overdone, my personal picks are: 

► "All About Our Love" - Sade
► "I Wanna Be Your Man" - Roger & Zapp
► "Drops of Jupiter" - Train
► "Lucky" - Colbie Caillat and Jason Mraz
► "Faithfully" - Journey
► "Unchained Melody" - Righteous Brothers
► "Something Good" - The Sound of Music Soundtrack
► "So Close" - Jon McLaughlin
► "Blackbird" - The Beatles
► "Ordinary People" - John Legend 
► "Your Song" - Elton John
► "Just the Way You Are" - Bruno Mars