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The idea of keeping your dance floor packed at your wedding can sometimes be a worrisome thought. The size of the dance floor, the music choices, the DJ, and even the placement of the dance floor can affect how many people choose to get out there and dance. For those who say, “Well my side of the family just doesn’t dance!”, that just simply is not true. You’re about to learn how to attract even those “non-dancers” out on the floor!
Kicking Off the Night
The first people to get out on the dance floor is going to be you and your fiancé! This will be a moment that the two of you remember for the rest of your lives. You should choose a song that is meaningful and reflects the journey you’ve embarked on. All eyes will be on you, so as the dance is coming to an end, wave your friends and family onto the dance floor. This will set the tone for the rest of the evening.
Transitioning from Dinner to Dancing
While your guests are enjoying dinner, consider a quieter background music as to not take away from conversation, but to elevate the atmosphere of the meal. Communicate with your DJ and bridal party prior to the wedding to discuss how you want to transition from dinner to dancing. What’s one song you and your guests will love that could serve as the ultimate segway into the party? An announcement from your DJ that the dance floor is open is another way to make sure guests don’t miss the memo. Having your bridal party to be the first on the floor may encourage your “non-dancing” guests to feel more welcome to get out there with them. To make all of this a breeze, take careful consideration into choosing the right DJ that will fit you and your guests best.
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Choosing the Right DJ
If you want to have a packed dance floor, you have to have the right music; and to have the right music, you have to have a great DJ. Choose a DJ who has plenty of experience in weddings as they’ll know how to read a wedding crowd the best and be able to adjust the music accordingly. Look for a DJ that is just as excited about your wedding day as you and your fiance. If you’re more Type A, consider a DJ that specifically promotes communication and encourages meetings to discuss your perfect playlist, announcements, and more. If you’re more Type B, ensuring your DJ has plenty of that wedding experience will make the planning process a breeze as they can guide you with their own recommendations based on the party you’re looking to have.
Crafting the Perfect Playlist
Once you decide on a DJ, the next step is to create a perfect playlist for your special day. Looking for a company that provides you with access to a planning portal can help you structure this playlist, along with communicating to your DJ what songs you definitely don’t want to hear, or the songs you’d be okay with if they’re requested by guests. Consider the songs you want played at special moments, like your cake cutting song or the last song of the night. A great DJ will know what song to play when the time is right. While you may be tired of the Cha Cha slide, it never fails to get a decent crowd on your dance floor!
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Dance Floor Placement
The placement of the dance floor is crucial. Put the dance floor close enough to the dining area so you can easily transition from dinner to dancing. This will also allow for those “non dancers” to sit close to the dance floor and watch from their seats. It should also be placed where the acoustics sound the best, which would typically be close to the DJ. If your venue does not allow for the dance floor or DJ to be near the dining space, communicate with your DJ the importance of getting your guests from point A (dinner) to point B (dancing), and inquire with them what special measures they can take to lead people into the dancing portion of the night. An easy way to catch their attention is with the use of special effects to further enhance this transition (and make your wedding stand out)!
Interactive Elements
Adding interactive elements can add a fun twist to your wedding day! Is your caterer starting to clear plates signaling your guests are done dinner? Try out magic sparklers or CO2 cannons to create a burst of energy that your guests will ride into the evening. Using colorful foam glow tubes or LED accessories can also help encourage guests to dance, and also look great in pictures. Other elements like giant disco balls, glow robots, party percussionists that work in sync with your DJ, are also creative ways to keep guests engaged. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box to create your memorable experience. But be ready to dance all night!
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Comfortable Footwear
Rather than staying in heels for the whole night, opt for some flip-flops or slippers! It’s hard to have fun when you’re not comfortable. By switching footwear during the reception, your feet will thank you later. Don’t let anyone give you the “uncomfortable shoes” excuse for not dancing–consider providing embroidered flip flops or ballet flats with your new last name for your guests to slip into. It’s a party favor and a way to get them to dance all in one!
Ending the Night
The last song is the song that your guests are going to remember your wedding from. Pick a classic song that everyone knows and can dance to. After this last song, consider having your DJ make an announcement for guests to head outside to prepare for your exit while you and your fiancé have one last final dance alone. This is your time to take a moment for yourselves, reflect on the day, and the beginning of the rest of your lives together.