3) Use Non-Danceable Selections for Cocktail Hour or Dinner Music
If you enjoy non-danceable genres such indie rock, use these selections for the atmospheric cocktail hour or dinner music. For open dancing after dinner, this eclectic fare will likely fail and result in a thin or empty dance floor.
4) For Open Dancing, Gravitate Towards Mainstream Selections
After dinner, the DJ needs to quickly mobilize your diverse group of guests and create a packed dance floor. It is sound advice to use songs that are recognized by most guests! For example, young adults will recognize a classic party jam like “Shout” from the movies, while adult guests will have heard today’s super-hits by the likes of Pitbull, Rihanna or LMFAO on the radio. One of the more interesting dynamics that I’ve observed performing at weddings is when older guests request current hits while teenagers request classic rock n’ roll from the 60s and 70s!
5) Consider Using Line Dances as Icebreakers
Surely, there has been a trend in recent years towards “non-tacky” DJ entertainment with minimal or no line dancing. You know, the usual suspects like the Electric Slide and Cupid Shuffle. That said, for the right crowd, line dances can quickly pack a dance floor with guests of all ages. The DJ can then guide this packed dance floor to the music that you really want to hear.
6) Include Several Ballad Sets During the Evening
Wedding receptions are celebrations that should feature a combination of romance and fun. I recommend two or three ballad sets of two songs each. Incorporating slow dancing makes sense because; first, this allows your shy and older guests to join the action. Second, ballads are a welcome relief from extended sets of high tempo dancing. The reason that I recommend programming ballads in pairs is that typically a couple will not get to the dance floor until the middle of the first song.
7) Have a Detailed Discussion About Music with Your Wedding DJ
Professional wedding DJs are highly experienced with musical programming, and can provide suggestions that will enhance the quality of your event. Show the DJ your playlist and ask for their honest feedback. Have a detailed discussion with the DJ about your guest demographics that may provide clues on what music will work. Discuss your policy on fielding guest requests, line dances, and your expectations for the dance floor action. If you envision a lower-key event, don’t be afraid to let the DJ know that a frenetic dance floor is not your goal.
10 Songs That Will Always Get Guests On The Dance Floor
If you’re in a pinch and don’t know how to finish out or even begin your reception playlist, take a peek at these 10 hit songs that everyone knows and loves. They’re a surefire way to get your guests on the dance floor and the party started!
Love Shack – B-52’s – YouTube
P.Y.T. – Michael Jackson – YouTube
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper – YouTube
Don’t Stop Believin ‘ – Journey – YouTube
I Wanna Dance With Somebody – Whitney Houston – YouTube
Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours) – Stevie Wonder – YouTube
Twist & Shout – The Beatles – YouTube
Can You Feel The Love Tonight – Elton John – YouTube
L-O-V-E – Nat King Cole – YouTube
Let’s Get It On – Marvin Gaye – YouTube
