Wedding Reception Songs To Start The Party

PICTURE THIS. IT’S YOUR WEDDING DAY.

Your ceremony was perfect. A room full of people that love you sit at your wedding reception, having just finished an awesome meal, as they wait for the opportunity to celebrate your marriage with their feet and dance the night away. The special dances come and go. Then the moment finally comes. “The dance floor is now open,” your wedding DJ announces. He throws on the Kenny Loggins classic, “Footloose”. No one moves. The momentum of your perfect day has come to an awkward halt. Why aren’t they dancing?

More than likely it’s the same problem that plagued your high school prom. No one wants to be the only one on the dance floor, everyone’s waiting for someone else to be first, and so the awkward moment continues.

How to solve this problem before it starts? Have your wedding DJ start the night with a classic slow song, and announce, “Now that our newlyweds and their parents have shared some special dances, they would like to invite you to join them for one more special dance.” Everyone always gets up. The dance floor is packed. Now when “Footloose” come on, the easiest thing to do is “cut loose” and “kick off your Sunday shoes.”

10 slow songs that start the night off right:

1 “Let’s Stay Together” Al Green

2 “Let’s Get It On” Marvin Gay

3 “Wonderful Tonight” Eric Clapton

4 “At Last” Etta James

5 “Unchained Melody” The Righteous Brothers

6 “Can’t Help Falling in Love” Elvis Presley

7 “Have I Told You Lately” Van Morrison

8 “Into the Mystic” Van Morrison

9 “When a Man Loves a Woman” Michael Bolten

10 “Unforgettable” Nat King Cole

Wedding Reception Music For A Great Party

Music sets the tempo for your wedding reception.  It lets guests know what to expect, communicates the tone of events and can accentuate the theme of the day.  So how do you use music to weave your ideas together, check out these tips.

Consider your guests.  When thinking about the songs for your wedding reception, consider the age and personality of your guests.  While much of your play list will include Top 40 and dance hits, remember that guests have some favorite songs that they like to dance to at weddings as well.  If you’re getting married near a particular holiday or season, consider adding music for that time of year as well.

Create playlists, but don’t go overboard.  When thinking about the songs for your wedding reception, it is helpful to think of them in three groups; “Must Play”, “Try To Play” and “Do Not Play”. These lists are very helpful in letting your wedding DJ know the types of music you do and don’t want to hear at your wedding reception.

Trust your DJ.  While you will likely attend a few weddings this year, your  wedding DJ will be performing at numerous events.  Allow him to use his professional skills to guide you towards songs that he knows will pack your dance floor.  After all, you do want guests to dance.

Let your DJ take requests.  Talk with your wedding DJ about the type of party you are hoping for.  Do you want music as the background for visiting or do you want a dance party?  Allow the DJ to take requests and suggest alternatives that will keep the party flowing.  A professional DJ can read the crowd and play the best song next.

Every guest request isn’t a good request.  While it’s become trendy to ask guests to submit songs in advance, it is highly suggested that you don’t ask guests for requests in advance.  If you do collect requests, make sure that you discuss with your DJ to make sure he is screening requests to make sure they match your vision.  You don’t want to create a party for one person.  If you receive 100 requests of songs averaging 3 minutes, that is 5 hours of music programming.

Music Set The Tone.  The music for your wedding reception gives your guests a cue on what kind of event you will have.  This starts with your Grand Entrance to the wedding reception.  Choosing a fun song for bridal party introductions can help get the crowd ready for your big moment and give your guests a preview of what is to follow.

Cocktail hours can rock!  The formality of the ceremony is over and guests are ready to have a good time.  The music for your cocktail hour is a great way to share your personal tastes so anything goes.  Consider acoustic artists, crooners, reggae, love songs through the ages or any other genres that fit with your wedding theme.

Keep Dinner Upbeat.  There is no rule that says you must play soft jazz during dinner service.  Coldplay, Mumford and Sons, Dave Matthews Band, Radiohead, Mat Kearney and artists of similar nature translate well to the dinner hour.  Your wedding DJ can also play songs that pickup the tempo as you get closer to the dancing portion of the evening.

Keep It Flowing.  Nothing kills the flow of a dance floor more than constant interruptions.  Work with your wedding DJ to establish a timeline that takes care of the traditional wedding events early in the reception and allows you to open the dance floor.

End It On The Right Note.  Ending your reception on a high note gives your guests a final, lasting impression.  Whether a special slow song for the romantics, or a sing-a-long for friends, give some consideration to  your last song of the evening.

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Mother Son Dance Songs

Last week we shared some song choices for the father daughter dance at your wedding reception.  Today, we have some ideas for the mother son dance.

The song you choose for the mother son dance will determine the choreography of the dance, as well as the tone of the room.  There are many songs that are perfect expressions of the special relationship between a son and his mother.  Whether you want something sentimental or light hearted, there are many choices for this special wedding reception moment.  (For more on wedding reception music, click here.)

Here are a few to consider:

Aaron Neville - “Don't Know Much”

Alphaville - “Forever Young”

B.J. Thomas - “Mama”

Backstreet Boys - “The Perfect Fan”

Barry Manilow - “I Am Your Child”

Bette Midler - “Wind Beneath My Wings”

Boyz II Men - “A Song For Mama”

Celine Dion - “Because You Loved Me”

Elton John - “Blessed”

Gary Allan - “Tough Little Boys”

John Lennon - “Beautiful Boy”

Josh Groban - “You Raise Me Up”

Joshua Kadison - “Beautiful In My Eyes”

Louis Armstrong - “What A Wonderful World”

Mikki Viereck - “A Song For My Son”

Nat King Cole - “Unforgettable”

Natalie Cole - “A Smile Like Yours”

Paul Todd - “The First Lady in My Life”

Rascal Flatts - “My Wish”

Rod Stewart - “Have I Told You Lately?”

Steven Curtis Chapman - “Parent’s Prayer

Stevie Wonder - “You Are The Sunshine Of My Life”

Temptations - “Oh Mother of Mine”

Whitney Houston - “Greatest Love of All”

Carole King - “Child Of Mine”

James Taylor - “How Sweet It Is”

Lucero - “Mom”

Lynyrd Skynyrd - “Simple Man”

Sarah McLachlin - “Ordinary Miracle”

Good Charlotte - “Thank You Mom”

Ben E. King - “Stand By Me”

Steve Kirwan - “Sunrise, Sunset”

Dream Theater - “The Answer Lies Within”

Christian Barnes - “On This Day”

Molly Pasutti - “The Man You’ve Become”

Jackson 5 - “I’ll Be There”

Reba McEntire - “He Gets That From Me”

Scissor Sisters - “Take Your Mama Out”

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Father Daughter Dance Songs

Finding the right song for the father daughter dance at your wedding reception can be challenging.  You want a song that captures the essence of your relationship, has just the right sentiment and is loving, without being romantic.

The song you choose for the father daughter dance will determine the choreography of the dance, as well as the tone of the room.  If you and your father are hopeless sentimentals, a slow song would be perfect.  But if you enjoy a more humorous relationship, it is perfectly acceptable to pick a faster paced song.  The same holds true for your first dance.  (For more on wedding reception music, click here.)

Here are some songs you might want to try:

“Butterfly Kisses” by Bob Carlisle

“I Loved Her First” by Heartland

“Its For My Dad” by Nancy Sinatra

“Wldflowers” by Tom Petty

“Kind and Generous” by Natalie Merchant

“These Are The Days” by Van Morrison

“Daughter” by Loudon Wainwright

“My Little Girl” by Tim McGraw

“I Can’t Help Myself” by The Four Tops

“Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder

“My Girl” by The Temptations

“Father and Daughter” by Paul Simon

“Daddy” by Beyonce

“Daddy’s Little Girl” by Michael Buble

“In My Life” by The Beatles

“Forever Young” by Rod Stewart
“Thank You” by Led Zepplin

“When You Need Me” by Bruce Springsteen

“Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong

“My Darling” by Wilco

“Lullaby” by Dixie Chicks

“Forever” by Dropkick Murphy’s

“Gracie” by Ben Folds

“Just Fishin’” by Trace Adkins

“You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban

“Somewhere Over The Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo Ole’

“My Little Girl” by Steve Kirwan

“Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion

“Lullaby” by Billy Joel

“Good Riddance” by Green Day

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Wedding Ceremony Music

Selecting music to play during the key moments of your wedding ceremony is a great way to add your personal style.  There are several key moments during your ceremony and the perfect wedding song can help add to the emotion of each.   We are going to break down each part of the wedding ceremony to help you better know where, when, what type, and how much music is appropriate.

As Guests Are Seated

To set the mood, music should already be playing when the first guest arrives and as guests are seated.  The music choice is entirely yours, but most couples prefer a romantic mood and select a style that suits them –  smooth jazz, wispy piano notes, or chamber music provided by string or woodwind ensembles.  Contemporary choices would include acoustic sets or familiar songs played by a trio or quartet.

While Parents Are Seated 

Parents of the bride and groom are last to be seated by the ushers and, occasionally, the parents or bride and groom will request a special song.  Keep it short, so your bridal party and guests aren’t kept waiting.

Bridal Party Processional

It’s customary for special music to be playing as bridal party couples approach the ceremony area,  either as couples or singularly.

Popular music to play during the bridal party’s entrance includes the strings of Pachelbel’s Canon in D,  “The Trumpet Voluntary,” a dramatic organ piece with Baroque flourishes, “Ode to Joy,” (from Beethoven’s 9th Symphony), and “Air,” an arrangement for trumpet and strings from Handel’s Water Music Suite.
As the music nears its final strains: The Maid Honor and Best Man are the last couple to enter.  Followed by the Ring Bearer, Flower Girl, and finally, the Bride.

Your music director or DJ can fade in and out of songs at the appropriate moments to allow for the amount of time needed based upon the size of your bridal party.

Bride’s Processional

Whether the bride enters the ceremony area alone or with an escort, a special song should lead her down the aisle.  As most songs are much longer than the time needed to walk down the aisle, you can choose the moment in the song you would prefer.   Your DJ can work with you to fit the length of the processional, which might be “Here Comes the Bride” or another ceremony song.

Special Ceremony Moments

Should you choose to include music during the special moments of your ceremony, it is important to remember that you will likely not hear the song in it’s entirety.  As you choose background music,  or select a meaningful excerpt from your song, make note of the points in the song you would like to hear.

You may consider using music during special moments such as candle lighting, ring exchange, communion, prayer or blessing.

Ceremony Recessional

Once the formality of the wedding ceremony is complete, your choice for recessional music is often more about personality.  You can choose to keep a solemn and formal tone, or give your guests a preview of the party to follow at your wedding reception.

If your ceremony is elegant, appropriate choices might include the “Bridal Recessional” or “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong.

Light-hearted music includes “Here Comes the Sun” by the Beatles or “You’re My Best Friend” by Queen.

Contemporary selections could include “Good Time” by Owl City and Carly Rae Jepsen, “Gangnam Style” by Psy or “Home” by Phillip Phillips.  It’s not uncommon to play something heavier, too, so make this music yours.

Contact us at 248-689-0777 or email us to start planning your ceremony details.

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Bride's Morning Playlist

A bride has a full day before walking down the aisle – and we have the perfect playlist to fill that time.  While you are getting ready with your friends, these songs are sure to keep the mood upbeat!

1. “Chapel of Love” by The Dixie Cups
2. “Wishin’ And Hopin’” by Dusty Springfield
3. “Today I Met The Boy I’m Going To Marry” by Darlene Love
4. “Ever Ever After” by Carrie Underwood
5. “I Do” by Colbie Caillat
6. “Marry You” by Bruno Mars
7. “You and Me” by Dave Matthews Band
8. “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” by the Beach Boys
9. “Glamorous” by Fergie
10. “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper
11. “Love Story” by Taylor Swift
12. “Accidentally In Love” by the Counting Crows
13. “It’s In His Kiss” by Cher
14. “Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root
15. “Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)” by Beyonce
16. “Let’s Get Married” by Jagged Edge
17. “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield
18. “Stay With You” by John Legend
19. “Stand By Me” by John Lennon
20. “Crazy In Love” by Beyonce
21. “Say Hey (I Love You)” by Michael Franti
22. “I Want To Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles
23. “Happy Together” by The Turtles
24. “Today was a Fairytale” by Taylor Swift
25. “You’re The One That I Want” from Grease
26. “Better Together” by Jack Johnson
27. “Rhythm of Love” by Plain White T’s
28. “I Say A Little Prayer” by Dianna King
29. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I’m Yours” by Stevie Wonder
30. “My Best Friend” by Tim McGraw
31. “Forever” by Chris Brown
32. “I Gotta Feeling” from the Black Eyed Peas
33. “This Will Be” by Natalie Cole
34. “True Blue” by Madonna
35. “Get Me To The Church On Time” by Frank Sinatra
36. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” by Whitney Houston
37. “Breathless” by The Corrs
38. “Marry Me” by Train
39. “I’m Yours” Jason Mraz
40. “At Last” by Etta James

We’re here to help you create the perfect playlist for your wedding reception.  Click here to get started.

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Songs About Getting Married

Whether you are looking for songs for your wedding reception or a playlist for your wedding day, we’ve got you covered with this list of songs about getting married.

“Lost In This Moment” Big and Rich.

“Marry Me” Train.   

“White Dress” Ben Rector

“Going To The Chapel” Dixie Cups

“All I Want Is You” U2

“Just Say Yes” Snow Patrol

“From This Moment” Shania Twain

“Marry You” Bruno Mars

“When I Said I Do” Clint Black and Lisa Hartman-Black

“Let’s Get Married” Jagged Edge

“I Do” Colbie Cailat

“Wedding Bells” Coldplay

“Wedding Song” Tracy Chapman

“I Do” Jewel

“I Do (Cherish You)” 98 degrees

“Plan To Marry” Lucinda Williams

“Marry Me” Amanda Marshall

“Today Was A Fairytale” Taylor Swift

“Wedding Dress” Matt Nathanson

“A Thousand Years” Christina Perri

“Then” Brad Paisley

“God Gave Me You” Blake Shelton

“Your Everything” Keith Urban

“Love and Marriage” Frank Sinatra

“When I Say I Do” Matthew West

“Today” Joshua Radin

“Stay With You” John Legend

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The Last Wedding Song

You’ve had a beautiful wedding and a great party, but the night is almost over. It’s time for the last song, another key moment of your wedding reception. Here’s some ideas to help you pick the perfect song. (Click here to read more about ending your wedding reception on the right note.)

End With Romance. If you are expecting a lot of couples at your reception, they might appreciate a final chance for a slow dance. You can choose something that will be recognized by multiple generations or a song that is particularly meaningful to you.

Some songs to consider:

Time Of Your Life - Green Day

I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing - Aerosmith

Time Of Your Life - Dirty Dancing Soundtrack

Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton

What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong

Home – Michael Buble

Singalongs. It’s always fun to end your night with a guest participation for your grand finale. If you think your guests would be up to it, invite them to the floor for a singalong.

Consider these singalong songs everyone is sure to know:

Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond

Hey Jude – Beatles

Piano Man – Billy Joel

Don’t Stop Believing – Journey

Semi Charmed Life – Third Eye Blind

Livin’ On a Prayer – Bon Jovi

Easy Picks. Do you appreciate the literal nature of song titles? If so, here are some easy picks:

Save the Last Dance – Michael Buble

Last Dance – Donna Sumer

You Shook Me All Night Long – AC/DC

Just Dance – Lady Gaga

Closing Time – Green Day

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