Going crazy? Don’t know what songs you need for your wedding reception?

Once you’ve hashed out what to play at your ceremony, it’s time to move onto your wedding reception songs. From the moment you walk into the dance floor to the time you leave, you’ll want to have music pumping. While every wedding has its own unique soundtrack, the types of songs stay the same. We’ve created a list of all the essentials to ensure that none of your wedding’s major moments go without music.

Grand entrance song

You don’t want to sneak into your reception unannounced! Once all your guests have been seated, dim the lights and pump up the jam - it’s time for you to give the grand entrance and get everyone into a happy mood. Make your arrival a stunning on by dancing into your venue to a song that captures just how happy you are; Justice’s “D.A.N.C.E”, Beyoncé’s “Love on Top”, The Beatles’ “Twist and Shout” or Shalimar “A night to remember”are all excellent options. 

First dance song

Your first dance song is arguably the most important piece of wedding song you’ll choose. While most couples opt for a slow song, you definitely don’t have to. Just go with your gut, what do you love dancing with your partner, is it salsa, something rehearsed or a fast-paced tune, go right ahead! It’s all about synchronicity and the emotion you feel for each other that makes the first dance a spectacular one.

 Naturally, the song you choose should suit the style of dance you want to do, so plan accordingly to your nature, be bold. If you’re going the traditional slow dance route, try something like Nat King Cole’s “Unforgettable”, Michael Bublé’s take on “God Only Knows” or Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect”. If you want to try something more upbeat, why not go with a Billboard chart-topper like Maroon 5’s “Sugar” or  Marc Antony “Vivir Mi Vida”?

Songs to play during dinner

Even though you’ve spent a lot of time choosing who is sitting where at your reception, there may be some gaps in conversation (it’s okay, it’s totally normal). This is the moment of truth you really need to choose music that is uplifting. We suggest stacking your dinner playlist with easy listening tunes and/or instrumentals like James Taylor “How Sweet Is It to Be Loved By You”, Rod Stewart “Have I Told You lately That I love You” and just about anything by Yiruma and Ludovico Einaudi. Keep in mind that anything too loud or upbeat might have your guests sneaking onto the dance floor before the main course is served.

Father-daughter & mother-son dance song

While you and your husband will probably spend most of the evening next to each other, you’ll want to let go for a short but sweet dance with each parent. Ask your dad or mum what song was special at the time you were born or look for a song that is unique. If you and your mom or dad want to shimmy and shake to an upbeat song, nobody’s gonna stop you. Need a little inspo? Amos Lee “Sweet Pea” and Tim McGraw “My Little Girl” work wonders.

Cake cutting song

After you’ve burned off some of those dinner calories with a bit of dancing, it’s time to indulge in a slice of wedding cake (or two, we’re not judging). Cutting your cake may not take the entire length of a song, but that means you shouldn’t mute the dance music for this special moment. Brides and Grooms this fun song called “Sugar, Sugar” by The Archies to mark the occasion.

Bouquet toss song

Now it’s time for the bride to steal the spotlight! You’ll want the perfect track for when she tosses her bouquet into the crowd of single ladies. Songs like Dusty Springfield’s “Wishin’ and Hopin’” and “Ladies Night” by Kool and the Gang suit the theme of this moment flawlessly.

Garter toss song

The steamiest moment of the wedding reception has arrived - the garter toss. This wedding deserves a sexy track like Justin Timberlake’s “Sexyback” or Hot Chocolate’s “You Sexy Thing”. Yes, these are a little bit cheesy, but sometimes you just have to roll with it.

Last dance song

The night is almost over, but before your guests are ready to leave and your suppliers are ready to pick up your wedding decor, you’ll want to share one last dance with your friends and family. Make sure you go out with a bang, not a fizzle, by choosing a wedding reception song that’ll get everyone up and out of their seats. Here are a few ideas: Daft Punk’s “One More Time”, Outkast’s “Hey Ya!” and “Gangnam Style” By PSY and are all solid choices.