Choosing the right wedding reception music is a very important party of setting the evening’s mood. You and your fiancé must first decide which type of reception you would like to have. If a swanky dinner party followed by cocktails and mingling sounds like your idea of a good time, then a jazz band may make the perfect backdrop. However, if a night of grooving to the perfect dance party playlist is what you crave for your big day, a DJ could provide you and your guests with the perfect popular tunes.

Photo courtesy of Eddie Marroquin Photography

Which wedding reception music is right for you?

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the wedding reception music. You want to make sure whatever you select fits in with the type of atmosphere you are trying to create. You also want to ensure that you are making a choice that fits well within your budget. Most of the time, a band will cost you more per hour than a DJ, and the number of band members could make the price go up.

Photo Courtesy of Eddie Marroquin Photography

Give guidance to your wedding musicians with a do-not-play-list.

Along with a list of songs for your first dance, father/daughter dance, and mother/son dance, you will also want to give your musicians a list of songs you would like played throughout the night. This may be a dance party playlist for your DJ, or a selection of songs for the band that are perfect for mingling with your guests. If you're hiring a band, check to see if they have already planned their own set list ahead of time. I also suggest putting together your wedding do-not-play-list. If “YMCA,” “Chicken Dance,” or “The Electric Slide” don’t make the cut, make sure your DJ has them on their do-not-play-list. Just be prepared that your guests might still request them.

Photo Courtesy of Eddie Marroquin Photography

Listen to your wedding musicians before signing the contract.

It is a great idea to go out and hear the band or DJ you are considering for your wedding reception music before booking them. Many musicians usually post upcoming gigs on their social media sites, and most would be happy to let you know when and where you can catch a show. If you and your fiancé can't stop dancing, then you know you're making the right choice.

Good luck planning your dance party playlist, and here’s to a rocking wedding!