How to Choose "Guest-Friendly" Wedding Music

Your wedding music should reflect your personal style yet fit your audience. The music you select, from guest arrival time to the last dance, is the most important factor to having a successful reception.

With that in mind, have you given thought to what your guests might want to hear? Will you both be present if you choose to have cocktails or hors d'oeuvres? Many bride and grooms are not present during this time. This might be a great time to play something refreshing while your guests mingle. How about music from soundtracks or music that represents your heritage? The ideas are endless!

Integrating music selections from both of your heritage is a great way to personalize your reception. For example, if you were Irish, then mixing in Irish music would be appropriate. You can also use other genres to blend with your heritage music. If you choose variety, you'll find the guests will be more captivated and impressed by your thoughtfulness.

The next variation would be dinner music once the bride and groom have arrived. Usually, music that is softer yet not soft enough to lull your guests asleep is a good choice. Soundtracks are a great choice for instrumental music and are far from dull. For example, if you're looking for a whimsical feel or nostalgia, think Finding Neverland or Miss Potter. These are only suggestions and there are plenty to consider. You could also use music from Richard Elliot, Eric Darius, Paul Taylor, David Sanborn, Euge Groove and others for a more invigorating dinner music style.

After dinner and the formalities, the guests will be ready to dance. You know your audience best. Would the older crowd enjoy dancing to some 60's or 70's hits? How about interactive dances for your guests? As tiring as they may seem to you, you may find a circle of guests wanting to do the "Chicken Dance." Some guests might find it amusing to place their arms in the air for "YMCA." Polkas might go over great at one reception, but may not be received well at another. As before, you know your guests best.

Have you thought about using song request slips on the guest tables? As one bride I spoke with suggested, request slips on the table would help your guests feel like they are being considered and taking part in your reception. She also mentioned, be respectful of your guests and remember you want them to dance too!

There will be slow and fast songs you will both want to hear. Make sure your DJ knows in advance the "do play" and "do not play" list. Any professional DJ will make sure songs are "edited for content." It might help to keep your "do not play" list, if any, to a minimum. Remember, who's dancing and who wants to dance.

The reception should flow and be fun without too many restrictions-you want your guests to dance! Overall, it's your day to shine, celebrate with family and friends, relax, and most of all, have fun. Let the dancing begin!