Special Family Dances

Last week, our Special Moments Event Planning team tackled the topic of the First Dance. It’s one of the most important moments of a wedding reception. From picking the right song for the two of you to the dance itself and possibly taking dance lessons, we tackled it all.

 

Lifelong Photography Studio

Universal Music Entertainment

Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa

Special Family Dances

This week, we are taking on special family dances. Most people call this the Father-Daughter Dance; unfortunately, the Mother-Son Dance sometimes takes second place. 

However, with years of experience in wedding planning, we have seen various family situations in which the traditional dance is modified. We’ll touch on those, too.

But first, let’s talk about some of the more traditional dances.

The Father-Daughter Dance

This dance often takes place right after the couple’s First Dance. It’s short and sweet, and regardless of what you might think, Dad has probably been thinking about this particular song for quite some time.

Here are some of this year’s most popular Father-Daughter dance songs.

 

• What A Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
• I loved Her First – Heartland
• My Wish – Rascal Flatts
• My Little Girl – Tim McGraw
• Daughters – John Mayer

 

But don’t hesitate to have this conversation with your father as he probably has a special song in mind.

 

Marissa Moss Photography

Total Entertainment by Matt Winter

The Belleview Inn

Mother-Son Dances

We can almost guarantee that your mother has a song in her head. It’s probably lived there since she knew she was having a baby boy. 

So, ask your mother what song she’d like for this special moment.

But, just in case she’s not narrowed down the choices, here are some of this year’s most popular songs.

 

• I Hope You Dance – Lee Ann Womack
• Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion
• You’ll Be in My Heart – Phil Collins
• Best Day – Taylor Swift
• Time After Time – Cyndi Lauper

 

Love and Covenant Photography

Phase 5 Band

Poynter Institute

Other Special Dances

It’s 2024, and not all weddings look the same. We’ve worked with situations where the “father-daughter dance” differs slightly.

In situations where the bride’s father may be deceased or not part of her life, there may often be a stepfather, uncle, or brother with whom she chooses to dance. We quite frequently see the bride dance with her mother. 

Any of these are absolutely appropriate. So if this is the case, dance with whomever you choose. 

The same rules apply to a mother-son dance where the mom may be deceased or not part of the groom’s life. Feel free to dance with a sister, aunt, or grandmother, whichever suits your situation.

We find that same-sex couples often break tradition in many areas of wedding planning, choosing elements that suit their specific situation. So don’t be surprised if you see two mother-son or father-daughter dances! Or if you see one of the partners dancing with a member of their chosen family.

The same options apply regardless of the situation. Pick a song that fits your personal situation and ask your parents or family members if they have a song in mind.

Always Ask The Pros!

Additionally, whether for special family dances or your first dance, it’s always a great idea to chat with your DJ or bandleader! Music is their life, and they will surely have great song suggestions.

 

Cover Image:

Lifelong Photography Studio

C’Nergy Music