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  • Writer's pictureCelia Rose

Wedding Music Timeline: When to Play What at Your Reception

Creating the perfect atmosphere for your wedding reception involves more than just playing great music—it's about playing the right songs at the right time. As experienced wedding DJs in Columbia and St. Louis, we've perfected the art of timing. Here's a typical wedding reception timeline with music suggestions:


  1. Cocktail Hour (30-60 minutes)

  • Style: Light, upbeat background music

  • Suggestions: Jazz standards, acoustic covers of popular songs, light classical music


  1. Guest Entrance (10-15 minutes)

  • Style: Upbeat, welcoming tunes

  • Suggestions: "Happy" by Pharrell Williams, "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" by Stevie Wonder


  1. Wedding Party Introduction (5-10 minutes)

  • Style: High-energy, celebratory music

  • Suggestions: "Can't Stop the Feeling" by Justin Timberlake, "Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars


  1. Newlyweds' Grand Entrance

  • Style: Triumphant, personalized choice

  • Suggestions: "Forever" by Chris Brown, "Best Day of My Life" by American Authors


  1. First Dance

  • Style: Romantic, personally significant

  • Suggestions: Chosen by the couple (We're happy to help if you need suggestions!)


  1. Welcome/Toasts (10-15 minutes)

  • Style: Subtle background music

  • Suggestions: Instrumental versions of popular love songs


  1. Dinner (45-60 minutes)

  • Style: Moderate-tempo background music

  • Suggestions: A mix of classic and contemporary songs across genres


  1. Parent Dances

  • Style: Sentimental, classic

  • Suggestions: "My Girl" by The Temptations, "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong


  1. Open Dancing (2-3 hours)

  • Style: High-energy party music

  • Suggestions: Mix of current hits, classic dance songs, and couple's favorites


  1. Cake Cutting

  • Style: Sweet, lighthearted

  • Suggestions: "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)" by James Taylor, "Sugar, Sugar" by The Archies


  1. Bouquet/Garter Toss

  • Style: Fun, upbeat

  • Suggestions: "Single Ladies" by Beyoncé, "Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen


  1. Last Dance

  • Style: Memorable, inclusive

  • Suggestions: "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey, "Time of My Life" from Dirty Dancing


  1. Send-off

  • Style: Triumphant, celebratory

  • Suggestions: "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" by Stevie Wonder, "All You Need Is Love" by The Beatles


Remember, this timeline is customizable. As your DJ, we'll work closely with you to create a music flow that matches your unique vision and keeps your guests entertained throughout the night. Our experience in both Columbia and St. Louis venues allows us to adapt to any setting and ensure your wedding music hits all the right notes at just the right moments.

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