We’ve already touched on choosing from popular first dance songs, offered some alternative first dance song ideas, and even checked out what some famous couples chose for first dances.

But what if you just don’t know where to start?  Some couples go into the reception planning with a special song in mind and others need some time and research to come up with that magical number for their special moment.  Here are some good questions to ask when narrowing down your first dance song:

Eight Questions to Ask When Choosing Your First Dance Song

1.  Is there a song that might have a special meaning to one or both of you?
2. If not, is there a song that always makes you think of each other?
3. What about a special song from a concert or musical that you attended together?
4. Are you looking for a slow, romantic song or something more upbeat?
5. Are you interested in a modern song or something classic (or even classical)?
6. Will your wedding band be able to play your song? Is it the exact arrangement you want?
7. Will the song fit the theme of the wedding?
8. How long is the song?  Will you feel that the dance goes on too long or might be too short?  Most wedding planners recommend about three minutes for a first dance.

If you’re looking for something more genre specific, here are a few ideas based on your musical tastes:

Classic Rock First Dance Songs

• Goo Goo Dolls – Iris
• U2 – With Or Without You
• Foreigner – I Want To Know What Love Is
• Queen – You’re My Best Friend
• The Rolling Stones – Angie

Metal/Hard Rock First Dance Songs

• Metallica – Nothing Else Matters
• Pantera – The Love
• Tesla – Love Song
• Extreme – More Than Words
• Megadeth – Promises

Indie First Dance Songs

• The Cure – Just Like Heaven
• Arctic Monkeys – Baby I’m Yours
• Yeah Yeah Yeahs – Maps
• The Maccabees – Toothpaste Kisses
• Cat Power – Sea Of Love

Country First Dance Songs

• Alison Krauss – When You Say Nothing At All
• Rascal Flatts – Bless The Broken Road
• Brad Paisley – Then
• Tim McGraw & Faith Hill – It’s Your Love
• Lonestar – Amazed

90s First Dance Songs

• Oasis – Wonderwall
• Sixpence None The Richer – Kiss Me
• Savage Garden – Truly, Madly, Deeply
• Foo Fighters – Everlong
• Hootie & The Blowfish – Hold My Hand

80s First Dance Songs

• Lauren Wood – Fallen
• Harry Connick Jr – It Had To Be You
• Van Morrison – Have I Told You Lately
• Starship – Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now
• REO – Keep On Loving You