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My Favorite First Dance Songs to Date

Little fun fact about me: I repeatedly listen to my couples’ First Dance songs as I edit their galleries. There’s a few reasons I do this. First, it helps me recall the day more closely (something about music just sticks memories into my brain like glue).

Second, the First Dance song is picked by the bride and groom as a representation of their unique relationship. So, by listening to it while editing their photos, I feel inspired to represent their wedding accurately through my editing.

Third, the First Dance song is so emotional and special. I feel like every time I hear each of my couples’ songs I relive their special day (and I bet they feel the same)!

As an engaged couple, choosing your First Dance song can be a simple detail in the long string of planning to-dos. Or it can be a process of vetoing each others ideas back and forth trying to find compromise. Or perhaps you two have had a special song your entire relationship, and the choice is a clear one!

This post is for the first 2 couples. If you have your song picked out, yay!! Proud of y’all! It’s going to be so special! But you don’t need my help in this area. So now I turn to the couples reading this that are having a tougher time making a decision.

I’ve photographed enough weddings to hear some really great First Dance songs! I’m proud to say that the couples I served were really creative. I’ve yet to encounter a cliche song choice. So if you’re looking for that perfect song for you and your soon-to-be spouse to dance to at your reception, look no further!

Here is a list of my absolute favorite First Dance songs to date!!

Ideas for First Dance Songs

For the Old Souls

“(I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons” by Nat King Cole

“My Girl” performed by Tiago Lorc

“Can’t Help Falling In Love” performed by Haley Reinhart

“It’s Been a Long, Long Time” by Harry James

First Dance song - Erin + Robert Mount Ida wedding reception, Dancing to "A Whole Lot In Love" by Austin Burke

For the Country Lovers

“Made for You” by Jake Owen

“On My Way to You” by Cody Johnson

“One Man Band” by Old Dominion

“Millionaire” by Chris Stapleton

For the Deep Romantics

“Never Letting Go (feat. Troy Laureta)” by Connor Duermit

“You Are The Reason” by Calum Scott

“Make You Feel My Love” performed by Adele

First dance songs - Cody + Elena, Purcellville wedding, Dancing to Send Me On My Way by Rusted Root and River by Emeli Sande

“River” by Emeli Sandé

For the Lives of the Party

“Come to Me” by The Goo Goo Dolls

“Say Hey (I Love You)” by Michael Franti & Spearhead

“No Matter Where You Are” by Us The Duo

“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” performed by Ben Rector

For the Individualists

“Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root

“You’ve Got a Friend in Me – Acoustic” performed by Amber Leigh Irish

“Good Day for Marrying You” by Dave Barnes

“Bright” by Echosmith

For the Three-Strands (Christian love songs)

“Love Like This” by Lauren Daigle

“Known” by Tauren Wells

“When I Say I Do” performed by Matthew West

“Fighting For Me – Piano Version” by Riley Clemmons

First dance songs - Leah + Regan Airlie house wedding reception, dancing to Come to Me by The Goo Goo Dolls

For the Modernists

“Lover” by Taylor Swift

“I Like Me Better” by LAUV

“The Bones” by Maren Morris

“Butterflies” by Kacey Musgraves

For the Ones Who Waited Their Whole Lives

“Waited for You” by Private Drive, Toby Freeman

“The Day Before You – Acoustic” by Matthew West

“At Last” performed by Kina Grannis

“Prayed For You – Acoustic” by Matt Stell

Having a hard time choosing still? I’ve added all of these songs to a Spotify playlist for you!! Shuffle through until one really hits you, or copy and add to it for your own inspiration.

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Every detail of the Madelyn Tenney Events Spring Design Showcase 2025 was pure magic. As an Atlanta wedding photographer, I had the joy of being invited to capture not only the beautifully curated spaces but also the intimate behind-the-scenes moments that made this spring showcase possible. From lush florals to elegant table settings, the event was a treasure trove of spring wedding inspiration for brides dreaming up their perfect day.

Hosted at Nova Studio in the heart of Atlanta, this carefully crafted experience was designed to set the tone for the upcoming wedding season—and it did not disappoint.

Spring Wedding Inspiration for Modern Southern Brides

The design vision for the showcase–Prima Flora–embraced soft pastels, delicate textures, and fresh seasonal styling. Think romantic blush tones, textured linens, and floral-forward installations. Madelyn and her talented team created a setting that felt simultaneously elevated and welcoming. It was truly a perfect exhibition of what sophisticated spring weddings can be in Georgia.

As I arrived early to document the event setup, I was able to photograph the team in their element: adjusting linens, styling stationery, and rehearsing the layout one last time. These behind-the-scenes moments revealed just how much heart went into this event. It’s easy to see why so many brides trust Madelyn Tenney Events to bring their dream weddings to life.

Behind the Scenes with Madelyn Tenney Events

Before the doors opened, I had the privilege of capturing team headshots for the women behind Madelyn Tenney Events. Their energy, collaboration, and vision made it clear this wasn’t just a design showcase—it was a heartfelt celebration of creativity and community.

The environment was buzzing with excitement as florists arranged final stems and vendors fluffed the final cushions. The team’s chemistry was undeniable, and it translated directly into the seamless flow of the event itself.

The Madelyn Tenney Events Spring Design Showcase

At the heart of the showcase were the intentional design vignettes. Each space told a story, offering spring wedding inspiration tailored for modern Southern brides. One standout element was a centerpiece floral installation by Marigo Flowers, assisted by Pollen Floral Company. It floated above a table layered with blush-toned linens from BBJ La Tavola, catching the light beautifully throughout the afternoon.

An eye-catching ice sculpture by Ice Sculpture Inc. ATL added a playful, elevated touch to the scene, while live entertainment from Jewel the Ballerina captivated attendees with ethereal movement, bringing life to the experience. Glasswing Rentals curated tableware that sparkled under the natural light of Nova Studio, and JC Rental Collective and Party Bound contributed pieces that gave each setup personality and polish.

Why This Event Matters for Atlanta Brides

If you’re a bride planning a wedding in Atlanta, Savannah, or North Georgia looking for fresh spring wedding inspiration, events like this one are invaluable. They don’t just showcase trends—they display the talent of local, trustworthy vendors who are passionate about what they do.

Every vendor at this showcase brought their A-game. Seeing each one’s work in person—and getting to document it as a film-inspired wedding photographer—was such an honor.

What I Loved Most as an Atlanta Wedding Photographer

Photographing this spring wedding inspiration at Nova Studio was a dream. The soft filtered light made the colors pop in a way that felt timeless and true-to-color. My goal is always to deliver film-inspired wedding photos that feel both editorial and authentic. The setting created by Madelyn Tenney Events was ideal for that.

Being trusted to document the designs and the passion behind them—team portraits, set-up, genuine laughter—reminds me why I love this work. These are the moments that couples don’t always see. These are the images that reveal the effort, energy, and heart poured into a couple’s day long before they say I do.

Want more from this amazing showcase? The full gallery is available for your viewing and inspiration!

If you’re planning a spring wedding in Georgia, take this as your sign: romantic color palettes, thoughtful texture layering, intentional florals, and a dream team of vendors are always a winning combination. And if you’re looking for a light and airy wedding photographer, I’d be honored to capture it all.

Let’s create something beautiful together. Contact me to inquire for more information about pricing and packages!

Vendors:

wedding Inspiration, Photo Prep tips, & exclusive offers only for the enp insiders

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