How To Keep Guests Dancing at a Wedding Reception

Many receptions fizzle out long before the dancing gets started. How do you keep your guests in attendance, and your wedding reception rockin'? Follow these simple tips on how to have a reception your guests will never want to leave.

1. First, don't make your guests wait. Many couples make the mistake of having their guests wait to eat, until they arrive at the reception. If you deprive your guests of food, then they'll eventually be too tired to dance. While you're having pictures taken after the ceremony, have a designated person at the reception announce that dinner is served. Your guests will appreciate your hospitality. They will have a full stomach and have more energy to dance.
2. Next, while your guests are eating play some uplifting music, not "put you to sleep" elevator music. This will keep them in the mood. You may even want to have some form of entertainment while they are awaiting your arrival. Some examples could include a gospel choir, ball room dancers, or even flamenco dancers.
3. Then, once you arrive, play an awesome entrance song, and play it loud. Immediately get yourselves a bite to eat. Make it quick, so you can start the traditional picture taking moments. These would include the cake cutting, bouquet toss, garter toss, the toast, and end with the first dance. A new trend is to have the couple's first dance be a theme dance, or a series of dance songs put together on one track. This only adds to a fun atmosphere, and encourages your guests to dance as well. Immediately after the first dance, have the band or DJ play a song that every age group can dance to. You'll want to have three or four of these songs in a row, before gearing up for the Top 40 songs. If all age groups feel they can participate in the dancing, then your guests will likely stay longer.
4. Music choice is also very important in keeping your guests dancing. As mentioned before, a mixture of songs appropriate for all age groups is needed along with the Top 40 songs as well. If your crowd is fun loving you may want to throw in the almighty Chicken Dance, or Electric Slide. Please be cautioned these 'group dance' songs usually go either really well or really bad. It depends on the time of night, and how willing the crowd is to play along.

While you have your guests entertained with dancing, make your way around the room to greet your guests. Each guest will want to congratulate you, and wish you well. Please ensure you thank all of them for coming. They have taken time out of their schedule to be with you on your special day. Once you've accomplished this task, it's your turn to have fun.