How to choose the music for your wedding reception | Nottingham & Lincolnshire natural wedding photographer
A typical wedding reception can last for around 5 hours. While that may go in a flash – you’re going to need a considerable playlist to fill all of that time.
Now, this is something that your DJ or wedding band will ensure that they take care of but more and more couples want to have more of a say on their wedding music not just for their first dance song – but throughout the night.
Scroll down to read and download your free music wedding sheet.
These tips are designed to make the choice of your wedding reception music nice and stress-free….
Know what you want
Have you always envisioned a packed dance floor for your evening celebrations or do you have more of a conversation-orientated atmosphere? Whether you choose a DJ or a live band or even go with a playlist – decide on the kind of music you want to hear. Your list of wants should include the songs you absolutely want to hear on the night – and any that you absolutely don’t! Perhaps you have a favourite band, a song that has a special meaning with your girlfriends, your wedding is one of the only opportunities you’ll have everyone you know together in a room – don’t waste the opportunity!
…….And know what you don’t want
The music you don’t want to hear is just as important! If there’s a particular genre of music you absolutely cannot stand or a song that makes you cringe every time you hear it, or perhaps evokes emotions that you maybe don’t want to be faced with on your wedding day – let your DJ or band know.
If you’re unsure about playing any classic songs, ask your wedding party for input. Play any songs that will get your friends dancing! But if none of you like those group dance songs, skip them – it’s your party – your rules.
Ask your guests
If you really want to ensure that you have a full dance floor and are concerned that there’s music to everyone’s taste – then ask! When your guests RSVP ask them to include a song that they would like played at the reception. Inside your invitation and RSVP packet, include a question on the RSVP card. It can say “This song will get me dancing” or “Play this please!”
As requests come in from guests, maintain control and don’t add them to the list if you don’t like the suggestion.
Booking your wedding music
Musicians can be booked six to eight months in advance and so you should decide what type of musicians you want to provide the entertainment at your reception about nine to twelve months before your wedding. Start listening to playlists and demos from the DJs and bands you are considering. A few months before the day expect a follow-up call from your musician of choice to finalize songs for the cake cutting, first dance, and any other significant moments too.
Your wedding music may not seem like a huge part of your wedding, however, having music at your reception will set the mood for the evening and fill otherwise awkward silences during times like meals and the cake cutting. The good news is that you can collaborate with your wedding party and DJ or bands to ensure you have the kind of atmosphere that you want on your day!
Download your FREE Wedding music planning sheet.
I hope this blog post inspires you and helps support you in your wedding planning.
Victoria Louise.
*Stock photos used.
Natural documentary style and editorial contemporary wedding photographer based in Gainsborough, which is sandwiched between the historic town of Lincoln and Scunthorpe, not far distance from Retford, or Doncaster. Wedding photography for all within Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire for natural award-winning wedding photography in the east midlands.
