Wedding reception entertainment is often an overlooked program element in your early planning. Yet, this extended timeslot between the formal ceremony and the party is where the right musical entertainment can set the tone for a great night ahead. After the ceremony, it’s time to take off the high heels, enjoy a drink and celebrate with your family and guests! You and your guests will likely be ready to let loose and enjoy the night. Music, fun, and games should be on the Menu to create the right atmosphere.
While your ceremony songs will be planned well in advance, often centered around classical and sentimental musical pieces, your pre-reception and wedding reception music allows you to take the tempo up a notch. Here are four great ideas for wedding reception entertainment that will keep your guests on their feet all night long.
DJ vs. Musician vs. Live Band – Which works better as Wedding Reception Entertainment?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the decision should hinge on your taste and the demographics of who you have invited to your wedding. A live band can bring a unique vibe to your event, while a DJ can transition smoothly between songs and genres, making sure everyone has something they want to hear. While some people prefer DJs because they can take requests and play multiple genres, others love the energy of live music. If you can afford it and want the best of both worlds, why not have both? Depending on your budget, you can opt for a solo wedding musician or an entire band. Make sure to discuss genre preferences with any potential performers before booking a musician or DJ.
Themed Playlists
Compiling all your favorite songs into your wedding playlist is an awesome way to add personality to your wedding reception entertainment. You don’t have to stick with just one genre either – make sure you include something for everyone! With Youtube Music, Apple, and Spotify providing all the tools you need, ask your bridesmaids and groomsmen to submit their favorite wedding music songs so you can create a truly unique listening experience that reflects who you are as a couple.
Substitute Music for Games & Activities as Wedding Reception Entertainment
Your wedding entertainment doesn’t need to be entirely music-based! Fun activities are another great way to keep younger wedding guests entertained throughout the night. If you have children attending, hiring bouncy castles or face painters is always popular! For adults, why not organize outdoor activities (if the weather behaves!) or plan fun games such as giant Jenga? If you have an after-party with younger guests while mams and dads hit the dance floor, hiring a karaoke machine can get people in the spirit to sing along!
Get your Guests involved with fun Dance Offs & Competitions.
Who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned dance-off and competitions at weddings? From “best dressed” awards for those wearing the funkiest outfits to group dance-offs and lip sync battles, dance-offs are great ways of keeping spirits high and bringing out everyone’s competitive side. You could even put together novel prizes for those who win any competitions you organize on the day. Why only focus on hiring a musician or DJ when the wedding reception entertainment you want is already on your guest list?
Keep your Budget in mind to avoid going overboard on Entertainment!
When it comes to both reception and pre-reception entertainment for your wedding day, you have endless options! Whether it’s live music, playlists, games, activities, or hilarious dance-offs – it essentially boils down to; your personal preferences and your entertainment budget. Make sure to take some time to research different options, calculate how much you can spend on hiring great South African musicians and entertainers, and choose what works best for you! With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create an unforgettable experience for all attendees at your wedding reception this year!
David Delaney – Violin Player and Singer for early Wedding Vibes
Rated 5.0 on Google with over 30 reviews from happy clients, David Delaney is regarded as one of the top violinists in Johannesburg. I have played at hundreds of weddings and private events all over the country and would be honored to be your wedding musician for your special day. Specializing in the ceremony, pre-reception, and reception entertainment, I offer a range of packages tailored to your plans and requests and provide all the audio equipment needed to start the party.
Avoid paying needless commissions through entertainment agencies, and contact me today for a direct quote for all your musical needs.