One of the main events of the wedding reception is the father-daughter dance. The choice of song can communicate feelings, stir memories, be a loving tribute, and often bring the father, the bride and on-looking guests to the brink of sentimental tears.

There are many popular recordings by contemporary pop and country artists from which to choose. Each father-daughter duo has a unique relationship, which will sometimes be reflected in the lyrics of the chosen song. Other times a favorite singer will dictate the final selection. Whatever the method of choosing, there is no question the father-daughter dance is designed to be a special moment to be treasured in memory.

Sometimes a bride's father is unavailable and she is given away by a beloved father figure, such as an uncle or grandfather; or she might have an adoptive or step-parent. Whatever the relationship, a little research will uncover a song with perfectly suited lyrics.

If you are looking for ideas for an upcoming wedding, here are a few best song choices for the father-daughter dance:

* TRIBUTE FROM A DAUGHTER TO HER FATHER:

- Wind Beneath My Wings by Bette Midler

- You Raise Me Up by Josh Groban

- He Didn't Have to Be by Brett Paisley (good choice for a stepfather tribute)

* TRIBUTE FROM A FATHER TO HIS DAUGHTER:

- Daddy's Little Girl by Al Martino

- My Little Girl by Tim McGraw

- There Goes My Life by Kenny Chesney

- I Hope You Dance by Lee Ann Womack

- The Way You Look Tonight by Frank Sinatra

Two all-time favorites were used by my daughters at their weddings and effectively provided a little added fun for others present, as well as a sentimental moment between the bride and her father.

My oldest daughter chose the traditional, Daddy's Little Girl, and after the first chorus, invited all the fathers and daughters present to join in. It was a visual treat to see all the old and young fathers dancing with their little, teenage, and grown up princesses. There is no age limit to being daddy's little girl.

My youngest daughter selected the popular, Wind Beneath My Wings, and at the second chorus beckoned me to join her and her father. There were the three of us in a group dance, receiving applause from the other guests. It is a memory my husband and I treasure to this day.

When planning your wedding reception, selecting an appropriately sentimental song for the father-daughter dance, from the myriad choices available, is just one of the ways to put your personal stamp on this once-in-a-lifetime event. Both you and your father will cherish the memory of that uniquely special moment in time.

Learn more about this author, Carol Gioia.
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