The First Dance: 20 Timeless Songs and Tips for a Flawless Start

All eyes on you, the first notes of your song: the first dance is the official kick-off of the party. Don't worry if you're not dancers — with the right song and a little preparation, it will be a beautiful moment regardless.

20 timeless songs for the first dance

International classics

1. Perfect – Ed Sheeran
2. Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
3. All of Me – John Legend
4. Can't Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley
5. A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
6. Make You Feel My Love – Adele
7. La Vie en Rose – Édith Piaf
8. L-O-V-E – Nat King Cole
9. At Last – Etta James
10. Golden Hour – JVKE
11. Lover – Taylor Swift
12. Die With A Smile – Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars

Dutch favourites

13. Mag Ik Dan Bij Jou – Claudia de Breij
14. Voor Haar – Frans Halsema
15. Zij Weet Het – Guus Meeuwis
16. Onderweg – Abel
17. Alles Is Liefde – BLØF
18. Hemel en Aarde – Edsilia Rombley

For the daring

19. An uptempo surprise dance (start slow, switch halfway)
20. "Your" song — the track from your first date always beats the charts

Five tips for a flawless first dance

1. Shorten the song. Two to two and a half minutes is enough; five minutes of swaying feels long. Ask the DJ for a clean edit.
2. Take a few dance lessons. Three to five lessons are enough for a simple choreography that looks polished.
3. Practise in your wedding shoes. And with a long dress: rehearse at least once in a skirt of similar length.
4. Agree on an ending. A dip, a kiss or guests joining in — a clear finale prevents an awkward fade-out.
5. Choose something that suits you. Can't decide between romantic and fun? Start seriously and let the song flip halfway. Guaranteed applause.