How to Choose a First Dance – The Honest Truth

Ah, the First Dance. That slightly nerve-wracking, surprisingly sweet, sort-of-awkward tradition that no one really talks about… until you’re the ones standing in the spotlight. If you’re sitting there wondering how to choose a first dance that actually feels like *you*—don’t worry. We’ve played live at over 600 of them, and yes, we’ve got thoughts…

Let’s Get Real: What Song Should You Choose?

Here’s the golden truth—it doesn’t need to be “your song.” We know, scandalous. But trust us, the number one question we get asked is: “What if we don’t have a special song?” Answer: That’s totally fine. Just pick something you both like. Something you can sway to. Something that makes you smile. That’s it. Its not really just about the song per say. Its also a great time for some photos. 

No one’s going to remember the song in ten years (probably not even your guests in ten minutes). What they will remember is the vibe. The look in your eyes. The moment. So don’t overthink it.

Slow and Smoochy or Upbeat and Bouncy?

We get this one a lot too. “Should we go for a romantic ballad or something more upbeat?” Our take? If you’re asking how to choose a first dance that works well and starts the night off right, go upbeat. Not rave-level energy (unless that’s your vibe), but something fun and foot-tappy.

Why? Because it’s easier to dance to. You don’t need to perform Swan Lake. Just a little shuffle, a bit of a twirl—and boom, the dancefloor’s open. Also, upbeat songs make it way easier to invite your guests in after 30-40 seconds (we call that “rescuing yourself”). Seriously, get the bridesmaids ready to storm the floor like it’s a flash mob.

To Choreograph or Not to Choreograph?

Okay. Deep breath. This one’s tricky. We’ve seen maybe… one fully choreographed first dance actually work. And they were both professional dancers. The rest? Usually a mix of forgotten moves, half-smiles, and someone mouthing “what’s next?” while the other panics.

Look, if dancing’s your thing—go for it. Hire a teacher. Rehearse. Just make sure the live band or DJ has the right tempo/version of the track. But honestly? You don’t need a routine. Pick a feel-good tune, have a cuddle, spin once or twice, and get those guests joining you. Job done. Party started. We’d say unless you are EXCELLENT at dancing….don’t go for a routine. 

The Band Factor – Live or MP3?

This is a no-brainer for us. We’re Funk City Band. Of course we love performing your first dance live. Whether it’s Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, or Stevie Wonder—we’ll learn it and bring it to life. But if you’d prefer the original recording? Totally cool. It’s your day. No wrong answers. The Answer is ‘YES’

That’s the real key when thinking about how to choose a first dance. Do what feels right. This isn’t for anyone else—it’s for you two. Your one tiny moment alone (well, kinda) before the floor fills with friends, aunties, and kids doing worm dances.

Quickfire Tips – From People Who’ve Literally Seen It All

• Keep it short and sweet. You’re not on “Strictly.”
• Have a signal to invite people in—don’t be shy! Nobody will come forward until you say so. 
• Wear comfy shoes. Yes, even just for this part.
• Don’t rehearse it to death. It’ll feel stale.
• Smile. Seriously. That’s the best move of all.

Final Thoughts: This Is Your Moment (Kind Of)

Look, when you’re thinking about how to choose a first dance, remember this: it’s your wedding, and your vibe is the right vibe. Want to do a slow sway to Norah Jones? Fab. Fancy rocking out to Queen? Even better. Just make sure you’re enjoying it—and each other. Its actually not that important. The vibes is more important. 

And when you’re ready to dance the night away with a band that knows exactly how to keep the party going, get in touch with Funk City Band. We’ve done over 9000 gigs including over 600+ weddings (yes, really) and know exactly how to keep the good vibes rolling long after the last dip and twirl.

If you’re still not sure try reading Top 10 First dance ideas. 

Email us here and let’s make some memories.

How to choose a first dance continued…

It’s a funny conundrum the dreaded First Dance. Nobody really wants to do it but doing it is really good fun thing to do. Here are is our advice on how to choose a good first dance and take some of the worry away. N.B This is in our collective opinion from the 480+ wedding we have played at and around 300+ first dances we have actually performed live.

What song should we choose?. For some ideas here is our Set list. 

You don’t need to choose ‘Your’ special song. You just need a song that you can both comfortably moved to and that you quite like. The reason is the first dance isn’t that important (shock horror!) From all the weddings you’ve been to in the past – can you remember any of them? Probably not. The actual song is just not that important. It IS however a brilliant opportunity to get some lovely photos of just the couple looking great. For that alone you should consider it.

Just remember the first dance song itself isn’t that important. You already have the perfect match in each other. The music is only a temporary addition to get some great photos and tick that wedding box and enjoy the process. You don’t need to be able to dance well. You will get all the encouragement you need from your family and friends and the day itself.

Should the band perform it live?

Our band Funk city will always perform live. We love, learning the song, doing it live and it’s a pleasure for to share something with you. If you want us to play it… LET’S ROCK. if you want it played on MP3 that’s cool too. Do whatever makes you happy and with that sentiment… Our final thoughts. It’s your wedding day. You should do whatever makes you happy. You’ve spent a long time and loads of money creating your vision. Enjoy it. It’s supposed to be fun. After the first dance you can get onto really having an amazing PARTY ! If you need any more info please contact Funk City Band below. 

Ready to Chat?
If you’re having a party and want a brilliant band that actually gets the vibe and gets people dancing. This is really important to us. If that sounds good— get in touch. We’d love to be the fun part of your night. If you have a wedding or event in a different place we are local to Bath, Wiltshire, Bristol, Somerset and Reading too although we travel absolutely everywhere. *Except the moon*. When people dance too much in zero gravity they have a tendency to float off which can cause problems with our insurance.

Written by Craig Mitchell Funk City band. 9000+ event rocked since 2004 inc. over 600+ weddings. You’re in very safe hands. 

If you want to se more videos of our band there are loads of the different band options on our YouTube page. Enjoy!

Or Simply call Craig on 07754265836 or email info@funkcitypartyband.co.uk 

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