The First Dance - don't wait forever to do it and don't do it forever.
One of the very special moments of the reception is the bride and groom's first dance. Having your first dance after the grand entrance, or right after dinner, is a great way to start the party. The more traditional time to have your first dance is shortly after dinner. Don't delay your first dance to visit with your guests. Many couples like to visit at each table but that causes a lot of people to wait for a lengthy time. Doing so will deflate the energy of your reception. You've selected your favorite ballad, but that five-minute song may seem like an eternity both to you and your guests. Have your DJ fade out the song at a designated time if it lasts more than a few minutes. All of this applies as well to the newlyweds' dances with their parents, your bridal party dance, etc.
Friday, October 12, 2007
THE FIRST DANCE
RECEPTION PLANNING FORMS
Make sure your DJ has a reception planning form.
Traditional reception events such as the grand entrance, toast, special dances and the bouquet/garter toss must be carefully coordinated. A professional wedding DJ should have a comprehensive reception planning form with suggested music. Your DJ should also be willing to listen to your tastes in music. There should be discussion (and documentation) as far as the order of events, approximate times to start events, and a plan for the entire evening. When should dancing start? When are the best and worst times to cut the cake? How do you avoid the delay when you and your party first arrive? If the DJ you're considering doesn't have a planning form, find a DJ who does.
DANCE TO THE MUSIC
Get Out and Dance!
Remember, part of your responsibility is to have fun! The Bride and Groom are like guest magnets. Where you go your guests are likely to follow. If you are on the dance floor, especially during the start of open dancing, it is likely to spark more participation from everyone. Make it a responsibility of your bridal party to dance in the early evening too! The DJ can motivate your crowd but you are the star of the show and where you are, people will want to be! Guests who come out dancing and have even a little fun will remember your evening as being a LOT of fun
