If the thought of swaying awkwardly to a cliché wedding ballad makes you cringe slightly, you’re not alone.
These first dance songs that aren’t cheesy are perfect for laid back luxe weddings. If you’re having a countryside celebration filled with good food, flowing drinks and relaxed energy, the best first dance songs feel effortless, modern and personal. Think meaningful lyrics, warm atmosphere and music that still feels like you.
Whether you’re planning a barn wedding in Somerset, a twilight celebration under fairy lights or a relaxed outdoor wedding with your favourite people, these first dance songs strike the perfect balance between romantic and cool.
We’ve included a mix of indie, folk, soul and alternative love songs – all ideal for couples who want a first dance that feels natural, stylish and genuinely you.
1. Beyond – Leon Bridges
Warm, soulful and effortlessly romantic without feeling overdone.
2. Baby I’m Yours – Arctic Monkeys
A dreamy, slowed-down cover that feels intimate, understated and ridiculously romantic without trying too hard.
3. Slow Dance – AJ Mitchell & Ava Max (Sam Feldt Remix)
Opens as a breezy, romantic ballad that is perfect for slow dancing, before exploding into an energetic, house-music style drop.
4. Home – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
Relaxed, joyful and ideal for couples who want their first dance to feel natural rather than overly choreographed.
5. You and Me – Lifehouse
A romantic classic that still feels modern enough for laid back weddings.
6. Everywhere – Fleetwood Mac
Perfect for couples wanting something upbeat, nostalgic and impossible not to smile to.
7. From The Ground Up – Dan + Shay
Romantic storytelling for a chilled slow dance.
8. First Day of My Life – Bright Eyes
A gorgeous choice for intimate countryside weddings.
9. Better Together – Jack Johnson
Relaxed, acoustic and perfect for outdoor weddings.
10. Best Part – Daniel Caesar ft. H.E.R.
Smooth, modern and effortlessly cool.
11. Lover – Taylor Swift
Romantic without feeling overdone, especially for modern couples.
12. I Will Follow You – Toulouse
Understated and beautiful for a first dance.
13. Forever Like That – Ben Rector
A sweet modern first dance song, without tipping into cheesy territory.
14. Sweet Disposition – The Temper Trap
A nostalgic indie anthem that works surprisingly well as a first dance.
15. Like Real People Do – Hozier
A beautifully earthy, intimate song that suits countryside weddings perfectly.
16. Stand By Me – Florence + The Machine (cover)
A fresh take on a classic first dance song.
17. If You Love Her – Forest Blakk
“She’s the best thing you’ll ever have…”
18. Northern Wind – City and Colour
A mellow, romantic song for your first dance.
19. This Must Be The Place – Kishi Bashi (cover)
Gorgeous cover of a Talking Heads classic.
20. You & Me Song – The Wannadies
Romantic lyrics and a catchy chorus your guests will want to join in with!
How To Choose Your First Dance Song
Your first dance doesn’t need to be the most romantic song ever written. It just needs to feel like you.
When choosing your song, think about:
- The atmosphere you want to create for the evening ahead
- Whether you want slow and intimate or upbeat and joyful
- Lyrics that actually resonate with your relationship
- Whether you’ll feel comfortable dancing to it.
And remember, your first dance doesn’t need to look choreographed or perfect. The most memorable moments are usually the ones that feel relaxed and natural.
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