DJ Placement: Placing the DJ’s table next to the dance floor maximizes his/her ability to control the sound and interact with your guests. It is not recommended to have the dance floor too far from the bar area or where your guests are seated. Also, be wary of facilities that require you to share a “common area” with other parties or guests. Such arrangements may promote uninvited guests to share in your celebration or impair the overall success due to volume limitations or other restrictions.
Music: Avoid trying to select every song your DJ will play. Our DJ’s are professional and are very familiar with blending music for the enjoyment of all guests. Although we encourage you and your guests to make requests, be careful not to focus on limited types/genres of music for the entire dance. Remember, the events where all guests have an opportunity to dance are the most successful. This is even more important at wedding receptions where there are a lot of varied ages. Requests for the more “extreme” songs should usually be held until a little later in the evening. Do you really want to lose some of your older guests before the important formalities are completed?
Lighting: We recommend the lights are dimmed when it’s time to start dancing. Soft lighting during dinner also creates a more comfortable atmosphere. Dimming them a bit lower after dinner will help provide a less intimidating environment for dancing. Most people are hesitant to dance if the room is too bright. Determine the desired lighting levels for dinner and dancing when you meet with the facility’s event staff.
Photographers: Select a photographer who has the skills to capture your special moments efficiently and unobtrusively. Try to avoid lengthy photo sessions once the reception starts. Also, choose a photographer who uses equipment that doesn’t require bright lighting which may distract from the overall atmosphere of the party.
First Dance: Don’t wait too long to do it. One of the most important highlights of any wedding reception is the first dance. Having it right after the grand entrance or shortly after dinner helps to ensure all of your guests share in your special moment. Don’t delay this or any of the other formalities. Doing so will quickly deflate the energy of your party and some of your guests may leave earlier than expected.
Group Activities: Don’t rule them out. Think twice before you reject those so-called “cheesy” group activities. These tend to be great ice-breakers if your group is a little slow to bust a move. It may also be the only opportunity some of the non-dancers have to participate in your special day. Although it’s not necessary to kick off your event with any of these activities, allow your DJ to keep all options open. These group dances are often requested by your guests and can also provide some great photo opps you’ll cherish for years.