Following dinner, many newlyweds begin the dancing portion of the reception by sharing a first dance together. Typically, the bride and groom choose a slow song that is meaningful to them and have the dance floor to themselves. But what if you’re not into a samba in the spotlight?
Here’s some fast facts on the first dance: According to data from The Knot 2020 Real Weddings Study, 90% of couples had a first dance last year, so it’s still a popular wedding tradition. Of the over 7,600 couples surveyed, the most popular first dance song was “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran, and it has been No. 1 spot for four years in a row!
The tradition of a first dance goes back to 17th-century Europe, according to Rustic & Main, a company that crafts wooden wedding rings. During this time, the primary form of entertainment was formal balls where the guest of honor (typically the person of the highest social standing in attendance) led the first dance. Eventually, this tradition evolved to the “first dance” wedding tradition we know (and maybe don’t love) today.
However, not everyone chooses to take a spin around the dance floor, whether because you’re shy or just eager to get the party started. Here are some alternatives we’ve seen over the years:
1. Host an anniversary dance instead. Have the DJ invite all married couples to the dance floor. Every so often, the DJ will narrow down the couples left on the dance floor by dismissing those married less than a day (that’s you!), one year, two years, etc. until you’re left with the couple married the longest.
2. Have your bridal party join you for your first dance .
3. Share another “first.” If you’re board game enthusiasts, share a “first” married game of your choice. If you’re wine connoisseurs, share your “first” married bottle. Whatever your thing, you can find a “first” to share!
4. Simply have the DJ invite everyone to the dance floor with a crowd-pleasing first song!
Bottom line: You don’t need to have a first dance. It’s up to you how you want your night to flow!
To learn more about how brides are “bucking tradition,” read our blogs on rings, wedding cakes, the bouquet toss, the garter toss and whether white is always right.
