How many bpm should a first dance song be?

You do not need to match a specific beats per minute for your first dance. The right tempo depends on the mood you want and how confident you feel. For a traditional slow dance, songs around 70 to 90 bpm are gentle and easy to sway to. Think of ballads or classic love songs. If you prefer something more upbeat, a song at 100 to 120 bpm can work well, especially if you have planned a few simple moves or a spin. The most important thing is that you both feel natural. If you are constantly counting beats, you will look tense. Instead, listen to your chosen song a few times and practise stepping in time with the rhythm. You can also ask your DJ or band to adjust the tempo slightly, but be careful, a big change can make the song sound odd. If you are unsure, pick a song that means something to you both, and let the emotion carry the dance. A genuine smile and a steady pace will always look better than a technically perfect performance to a tempo you do not enjoy.