Five Ideas to Get Your Guests Involved in the Open Dance Segments of Your Reception

Throughout your reception there will be open dancing. This is the time when your guests are able to celebrate your reception with you. It is important to make your own mark on your event. However, taking into consideration your guests and their likes will allow them to feel part of the celebration. Choose a couple of these ideas and your entertainer will have no problem getting your guests up and taking part in the fun!

1. How about sharing some dancing from your own ethnic heritage or cultural background? We have entertained at receptions where the dances have been previously choreographed with the wedding party or the bride and groom were able to get their guests involved by showing simple steps to the guests. These enjoyable dances add fun memories and liveliness to the event.
2. Discuss with your entertainer genres such as Classic Rock, Pop, or Motown you think may work with your crowd. You may ask yourself, “Who doesn’t like heavy metal”? However, it is important to keep in mind that although heavy metal may be your favorite genre, only a small minority may enjoy this type of music. Remember, if you have hired a professional wedding entertainer (DJ) he or she is trained in reading a crowd and will be able to offer them the time of their lives.
3. Traditional family dances can be a fun way to share special time with loved ones. Songs such as the Twist, Shout or a Waltz which are typically played earlier in the open dance segments are a great way to capture some wonderful photos and make some of the older guests feel included in your event.
4. Choose a must play list of about 15 songs. It may be tempting to choose all the music for your reception but it is important to hand over some of the control to your professional wedding entertainer. Their experience and expertise will get the crowd dancing without the forced enthusiasm some not- so- professional entertainers attempt. Also, make sure you create a list of music you do not want at your reception.
5. Look at your guest list to find out which guests are attending your reception from other parts of the United States or other countries. A great way to make guests who may otherwise not know many people at your reception feel comfortable would be to find out which type of music is enjoyed in their locale. At a recent reception in the Northeast, our groom had family coming from the Southeast. We discussed which music would be appropriate for these special guests. Although Country music was not the top choice for the bride and groom, his “Southern Family” appreciated the few songs played throughout the night.

Making your event unique to you is very important! It is equally important to include your guests that have gathered to celebrate you and your special day!