Planning the Wedding Reception Music with Your DJ

This song should have special meaning for the bride and groom. It may have been popular when they met, frequently played while they were dating, or just a style of music they both enjoy.

This song is for the father/daughter dance. The bride might want to get her father’s input on this selection as he is saying good-bye to his little girl.

This dance is for the groom and his mother. Like the Bride/Father Dance, getting input from the mother on this song choice is suggested.

This is an optional dance, but the song choice should reflect the personalities of the bridal party and/or the tone of the reception; i.e. fun, formal, traditional, eco-friendly or trendy.

This is the opportunity to please all of the guests at the reception. For example, if there is an older crowd, be sure to include songs from their era. Also, mixing a variety of tempos from fast dances to slow dances will ultimately appeal to everyone.

You may opt to include trendy dances in your music selections, such as the Electric Slide, Cupid Shuffle, Boot Scoot Boogie, or the Dollar Dance. Cultural or religious traditional dances may also be included.

These are optional events and a time to have fun so choose appropriate background music. Make sure the DJ is advised of the timing of these activities.

The Final Dance is the last dance the bride and groom dance along with their guests just before they depart. This song should reflect the tone in which you wish to end the reception. It can be a high energy fast dance, a slow romantic dance, or anything you wish.

This song plays while the bride and groom are exiting the reception and leaving for their honeymoon. It signifies the end of the reception.

An experienced DJ can read the crowd and knows when to play what songs. As such, give him some choice in the song list. Sticking strictly to your preferred song list may result in an empty dance floor as your taste in music will not be the same as all of your guests'. Chances are, your DJ will have tricks up his sleeve to encourage participation – let him do his job!

The DJ can also help in other ways with your wedding planning. If your plans should include using your wedding music to create wedding favors, or if you would like him to announce the wedding toast, the cake cutting, or perhaps facilitate any games planned for the reception, don't forget to discuss this with your DJ in advance. With these tips in mind, your planning meeting with your DJ is sure to pay off on your special day!