How to Have a Memorable Daddy-Daughter Dance
Dancing is one of my favorite parts of a wedding day! The ceremony is over, the toasts have been given, and now it’s time to cut loose and relax with your loved ones. Up first: the classic father-daughter dance! In my years photographing weddings I have come up with a few tips on how to make this tradition seamless and stress-free.
Pick a song that suits you.
Do you and your dad (or father figure) have a special song that isn’t necessarily a “traditional” dance song? Dance to it anyway! This dance is all about you and the man who loved you first. If you need a little help coming up with a perfect song, I made a list of some of my favorites below. Some are traditional, some are unique, but they’re all perfect for your first few minutes on the dance floor.
Practice beforehand.
Knowing what you and your dad are going to do before you step out onto the dance floor will make the experience much more enjoyable. Take a few minutes in the days before your wedding to plan any unique steps you might want to include in your dance — we don’t want you falling to the ground during an unexpected twirl!
Decide what to do with your dress.
If your dress needs to be bustled or otherwise adjusted before the dancing begins, make a plan. Ask your mother, best friend, or maid of honor to help you with this. Doing a bit of pre-planning will help keep you calm and in the moment once you’re out on the dance floor.
Don’t be afraid to share the spotlight.
Not everybody is a natural-born dancer, and that’s okay! If you want to have the traditional experience of a daddy-daughter dance but don’t want too much time in the spotlight, consider having the mother-son dance at the same time! It’s a great way to split the focus of your guests and keep these dancing traditions alive.
It all comes down to this: dancing should be fun, not stressful! Do what makes you feel comfortable and don’t worry about the rest.
Butterfly Kisses | Bob Carlisle
Because You Loved Me | Celine Dion
My Wish | Rascal Flatts
Father and Daughter | Paul Simon
Isn’t She Lovely | Frank Sinatra
My Girl | The Temptations
How Sweet It Is | Michael Bublé
You’re My Best Friend | Queen
Child of Mine | Carole King
You’ll Be In My Heart | Phil Collins
You’ve Got a Friend In Me | Jordan Fisher, Olivia Holt
Just the Way You Are | Billy Joel
Sweet Pea | Amos Lee
The Best Day | Taylor Swift
Ballerina Girl | Lionel Richie