When the ceremony is completed and the reception
dinner is winding down, this is the time that most of your guests
anticipate. It's a time to relax and have some fun. Keep in mind
that the hard part is over, now is the time that most brides take
this opportunity to slip into some comfortable shoes, and "let
their hair down a bit. But, there are a few items to plan for.
1. The Bride and Groom's first
dance.This should be the very first "official song"
of the night. Most of the guests are reluctant to take to the
dance floor until the Bride and Groom have had their first dance,
and when it is first, it sets the tone and breaks the ice for
the dance floor. (Tip: If you have a special song that may
be something unique, it's best to consult with your DJ, to make
sure that they have it or if you wish to provide it, that it is
on a format they can use, i.e. cd, tape etc.)
2. The wedding party dance. This
is a matter of personal taste. Some couples wish to have a second
song for the wedding party, and/or close family members etc. to
join them. This is a perfect photo opportunity, especially if
the professional photographer/ideograph is present to capture
what is surely a special moment. (Tip: It's a good idea to
assign the Best Man and Maid of Honor to group the wedding party
prior to the first dance. They tend to spread out, and grouping
them makes for a smooth segue between songs)
3. The Mother/Son-Father/ Daughter
Dances. Again here, if you have a photographer, the best time
for these is after the Bride and Groom's first dance or immediately
after the wedding party dance. Yet another reason for this timing
is if you have older relatives or friends of the family, they
can be in attendance even if they have plans or a need to leave
the reception early.
4. The garter toss and bouquet
throw. These are subject to personal preferences. Some couples
like to have these later in the night, but more and more couples
are choosing to have these just after the parents dance(s) for
the reasons, again, of older guests/relatives, and a photographer
on hand. Also this gives the Bride and Groom ample time afterward
to relax, chat with guests and so on knowing that the traditional
reception events are complete and they are free for the rest of
the evening.(Tip: To prevent last minute searching, the most
convenient place to store your throw bouquet is at the DJ table
to keep it readily at hand.)
5. The music. If you have certain
requests and dedications, it's best that you supply your DJ with
these at least a month before your reception date. This will assure
that your requests will be on hand, but it will also give the
DJ a feel for your personal musical tastes. Even if you communicate
your tastes in specific genres, this will be a tool for your DJ.
Also important is to list any particular songs that you would
rather not have played, not matter the reason you may have.
6. Time constraints. Keep in
mind, that some halls and ballrooms have certain limitations on
how late a reception can take place. These may be due to local
laws, building policy or rental agreements. You may wish to extend
your contracted time for your reception, but it's best to have
the option pre-planned with the locations management before hand
to avoid problems or unforeseen rental charges.
