Usually planning the wedding reception takes just as much time and effort as planning the actual ceremony. And while you may think you know all there is about hosting parties, make sure to check out these tips on the music for your reception first. Also consider putting the Maid of Honor and Best Man in charge of managing your party. You don’t want to agonize about much more than exchanging wedding rings and cutting the cake on your big day.
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Check with Band or DJ about what they plan to do. Check their song list and make sure it contains your favorite tunes. Whether you’re a Top 40 couple or an alt-rock couple, make sure your band or DJ is going to play what you like! Nothing worse than bad music at your own reception. Also make sure to ask whether they engage the crowd. Do they have emcees? Dancers? |
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Make sure to include popular songs on the DJ’s playlist! Many wedding planners agree that all too often couples put too many popular songs on the DJ’s “do not play” list, fearing they’ll be tacky or that they’ve been played too much before. Sure, you may be tired of classics like “We Are Family” and “I Will Survive”, but they definitely bring people out on the dancefloor. |
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Listen to the lyrics of the first song. It’s a time-honored tradition that the first dance between the couple be to a song that celebrates their love and their new marriage. Sometimes these songs can be something played on a first date, or even a song featured prominently in a movie you both enjoyed. But listen to the lyrics. Whatever song you choose, make sure it doesn’t reference a former flame or an affair. That is definitely bad luck. |
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Look for a reputable organization that specializes in bands for private parties and wedding receptions. Many wedding experts agree that it’s best to choose a band that only plays weddings and private parties, instead of bars and clubs. These bands will be able to tailor their set-list to the guests response and also play a wide range of musical styles. |
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Consider something different. Allow people to have some drinks and relax, then introduce some more daring choices later in your wedding reception. Some band considerations can include Bluegrass (good for outdoor or beach parties), Salsa (great for clubs or Latin-themed parties), or even Ska (fantastic for younger crowds and pool or beach parties). |