The following is considered to be the easiest and most natural progression from event to event during most wedding receptions. On behalf of Beach Music, this schedule and information has been provided to assist the prospective Bride and Groom in preparing for their special occasion, and to ensure that their wedding reception is a satisfying and memorable one. This is just a sample, your schedule can easily be accommodated by our DJ.
Introduction of Bride and Groom: It is possible to introduce all of the wedding party, but after twenty years in the wedding business, it is strongly recommended that only the Bride and Groom be introduced. Some in the party may not want to be introduced. The Bride and Groom are the focus of this event; they are the stars and should share this moment alone.
The Dinner: Whether a buffet or a seated dinner, it is suggested that the dinner be served next as your guests may not have eaten for some time and will probably be hungry.
After Dinner:The cake should be cut after everyone has finished eating. It is suggested that soft music be played during the cake cutting; the DJ will be happy to honor any requests.
The Toast: This should be the toast(s) to the Bride and Groom. Champagne or wine should be on each table, with someone designated to open and pour it for the rest of the guests. The Best Man should be given the opportunity for the first toast, then the Maid of Honor, then any family members or friends. The toast(s) should be made over the microphone in front of the DJ’s table.
Bouquet and Garter Toss: The Bride’s flower bouquet toss event is done for all of the single ladies present. The Bride’s garter toss is done for all of the single men present. At the completion of both events, the catcher of the garter places the garter on the catcher of the bouquet.
Couple’s First Dance: The first dance will be the Bride and Groom dancing alone on the floor to a song of their choosing. The song chosen should be something meaningful to the Bride and Groom. This dance is special; all eyes will be focused on these two for the entirety of the song. If the Bride and Groom enjoy dancing, the song may have an extended play. If not, the song may be shortened to their liking.
The Bride and Father Dance: This is the next dance. There are hundreds of wonderful songs to select for this event. The Bride should consider how long her father would like to be on the dance floor. All songs can be shortened and serious thought should be given to this situation well ahead of time.
The Groom and Mother Dance: The same rule for the Bride and Father dance in the paragraph above will apply to this dance.
Beginning Guest Dancing: The song selection for this event is very important in trying to get many of your guests on the dance floor. It is a very good idea for the Bride and Groom to be a part of this dance; it will get your wedding reception off to a great start since many of your guests are more likely to participate when the Bride and Groom are dancing as well.
Continued Dancing: Additional dancing can be done to the first of many upbeat dance songs. Since celebrating and dancing will be the main activity of the rest of the reception, it is important for the Bride and Groom to participate as much as possible depending on their time and other family and guest obligations.
Suggestions and Observations: The Bride and Groom should be alerted that many of their guests will leave after the cake cutting. If the Bride and Groom go outside with many of their guests during the reception, only a small number of guests will remain inside or on the dance floor. Try to remain within the reception and be available to your guests.
These suggestions are based on years of experiences and are passed along to be of value to those unfamiliar with procedures that normally work and those that do not. Any suggestions, thoughts or changes you may wish to make will be gladly accepted; however, adhering to this basic information will significantly streamline the success of your reception.