The Best Songs to Play During Cocktail Hour and Dinner
One of the most important parts of a wedding reception is the music. Couples spend lots of time and energy picking the perfect soundtrack to their big day, and investing in a professional Wedding DJ who knows their stuff is a great way to curate a top-notch list of songs. But what’s the best music to choose for cocktail hour and dinner? Here, we look at the different musical styles available, so that you can make the best choice for your special day.
The Purpose Of Cocktail Hour
When it comes to wedding receptions, not every event includes a cocktail hour, but if you plan on opting in, it’s important to know the purpose of the extra hour. Generally, following the ceremony, your guests will have a few drinks and some light conversation while the bridal party and wedding photographer get a few shots in. The music during this time should create a great atmosphere, inviting people to mingle and enjoy the drinks and appetizers available.
Choosing The Best Songs
When it comes to picking out cocktail hour music, the possibilities are endless. Couples often opt for the top wedding songs, and selections from classic jazz and soul. While it’s best to steer clear from music with lyrics, instrumental music sets an upbeat and energized atmosphere, perfect for networking and catching up with family and friends.
Different Genres To Consider
While the usual wedding tracks are great for festivities, there are a number of music genres to choose from for cocktail hour and dinner.
When it comes to classical music, the options are truly endless. From Beethoven to Prokofiev, wedding guests of all ages can appreciate and enjoy the beautiful, timeless tunes of the classical era.
If you’re looking to get more contemporary, jazz and light instrumental hip hop can be great options to set a laidback, familial atmosphere. Classic swing music such as The Rat Pack, is also a strong choice – great for easy listening while dancing after the meal.
For more relaxed receptions, contemporary R&B and soul vibes have eternal appeal. Music such as Ray Charles and Sam Cooke will never go out of style.
Light vs Heavy Music
Beyond the genres available, you can also curate your playlist differently depending on the desired atmosphere.
For a more upbeat vibe, light, mellow music is ideal. Jazz riffs and instrumental hip-hop provide a good balance between letting guests chat and dance.
If a more laid back atmosphere is desired for cocktail hour, instrumentals from classic rock, blues, and country music can offer a great background to conversations, from the soft croons of The Eagles to the harmonica grooves of Neil Young.
Dinner Music Ideas
While cocktail hour should be upbeat and light, dinner music choices can range from classical to vintage rock.
Classical music is always a safe choice, as it lets people concentrate on their food, and the conversation.
If you’re not a fan of classical, jazz and acoustic pop should do the trick – light enough to focus, but will also provide a nice but soft background. If hosted outdoors, light live music can be great to provide a more personal touch to the reception.
Find The Right DJ
When selecting music for a wedding, it’s essential to hire the right Wedding DJ who is able to read the crowd and help with the selection. Professional DJs such as EliteDJ.Ca, will be able to read the vibe of the room, and provide an exceptional selection to suit your needs.
If you are having a genuine, classic wedding, jazz and light classical selections may be perfect for the occasion. On the other hand, if you are an upbeat couple, or your wedding is going to last for hours – uptempo music and nineties throwbacks might be the right choice.
No matter what genre you choose, make sure you work with a professional who can meet your wedding expectations, and keep the dance floor going all night long!
Conclusion
Cocktail hour and dinner music is of high importance at a wedding reception. To guarantee your guests have an enjoyable time, it is essential that couples carefully choose the right music. Couples can opt for genres like classical, jazz and light instrumental hip hop to set a more relaxed vibe, and can use professional DJs to make sure the wedding is remembered for years to come.
FAQs
Q1. What kind of music should I choose for my wedding reception?
A1. The kind of music you should choose for your wedding reception will depend on the desired atmosphere for your event. Uptempo music and nineties throwbacks might be the right choice for upbeat couples, or receptions that will last for hours. While for a more laid back atmosphere, instrumentals from classic rock, blues, and country music can provide a great background.
Q2. What is the purpose of a cocktail hour?
A2. Following the ceremony, the purpose of a cocktail hour is to provide guests with drinks and light conversation while the bridal party and wedding photographer get a few shots in. The music should create a great atmosphere, inviting people to mingle and enjoy the drinks and appetizers available.
Q3. Can I get a DJ for my wedding reception?
A3. Yes, it is highly recommended to invest in a professional Wedding DJ for your wedding reception. They should be able to read the crowd and help with the selection of music to make your event perfect. EliteDJ.Ca are professional high-level DJs that can bring your dream wedding to life.
Q4. Is it possible to have live music at my wedding reception?
A4. Yes, if your wedding reception is taking place outdoors, light live music can be a great way to provide a more personal touch to your event. The options range from acoustic pop to classic rock and blues, so you can curate the exact atmosphere you desire.
Q5. How can I guarantee my guests have an enjoyable time?
A5. Carefully choosing the right music is the best way to guarantee your guests have an enjoyable time at your wedding. Couples can choose from a range of different genres such as jazz, light instrumental hip hop, R&B and soul, and classical, and should make sure to hire a professional Wedding DJ who is able to read the crowd.
