First dances are a funny part of the wedding experience. Some couples just can’t wait to strut their stuff as a newly married dancing unit, with a perfectly choreographed dance and strict instructions to the photographers as to which lifts and holds to get a good picture of.
And some couples can’t think of anything worse.
And that’s ok, you can still have a fantastic reception without a first dance. However, it is very useful to have a first dance to add more structure to your evening. I’ve been to plenty of weddings where there is some entertainment but basically nothing happens with the bride and groom after the speeches and the wedding just fizzles out.
The first dance will draw all your guest to you and to the dance floor and kick off the beginning of the party bit with a bang. Add a sax to that and, hey presto, you’ve got a bit more bang!
Saxophone players will be able to play along with most tracks you choose but not all will necessarily suit the vibe that you are going for. If you’re going for a Ed Sheeran, John Legend-style love fest then a saxophone over the top probably won’ be what you’re after. Pretty much anything else will work with sax.
First Dance Favourites
Below are a few of my favourite first dances (not the best or most popular, purely my favourite choices from clients):
Happy Together - The Turtles
You might not recognise the name of this but you’ll know the chorus; a bit off the beaten track but a wonderfully joyful singalong!
Freed From Desire - Gala
I genuinely can’t remember the last time I didn’t play this at a gig. Everyone knows it, everyone loves it, personally I think it can be better used later on in the evening or as a wedding breakfast entry but definitely worth having I the mix.
You & Me - Disclosure
This is a heavy-hitter, builds from almost nothing to quite heavy and has an epic sense of grandeur with a modern twist. Cool and oddly regal tune but won’t necessarily be a dance floor filler, works really well as an entry tune for the couple though.
Sky Full Of Stars - Coldplay
In a similar vein to the Disclosure track, this starts relatively small and gets pretty massive towards the end. It is a little more on the nose about the love message and has an easy, danceable beat throughout, it’s a great choice!
Wedding Cake Timing: Are You Cutting Too Soon? 🍰
As an aside, loads of couples cut the cake just before the first dance and I really don’t know why, I assume venues are keen on it then as it allows them to take it away and get it cut up whilst people are distracted on the dance floor. I hate seeing wedding cake wasted so we cut ours a little later on the dance floor, and then cut it as we went - meaning it didn’t go dry and the guests were aware of where it was. That might not work for you but making sure guests know about when and where the evening food is a small consideration.
Kickstart Your Wedding Party with Live Sax! 🎷
Make your first dance unforgettable with the smooth, soulful sound of live saxophone! Get in touch today to add a unique touch to your wedding.
Nick Pike Saxophone
A talented and versatile saxophonist, Nick plays iconic pop, funk and soul songs reworked with his unique touch. Nick Pike Saxophone is available throughout London, Essex, Surrey, Hampshire, Sussex, Kent and Berkshire. Book now >
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