Category Archives: wedding reception songs chicago il

10 of the Most Popular Wedding Songs

September 1, 2023song requests, wedding reception songs, wedding reception songs chicago il, wedding song play listwedding reception songs, wedding songsMike Urban

The music you choose for your wedding can set the tone for your entire celebration, and nothing gets guests more excited than a high-energy packed dance floor. In addition to providing exceptional service and entertainment, a wedding DJ from An Enchanted Evening knows how to get the party started and keep it going. With so many wedding songs to choose from, we’ve narrowed it down to the top ten popular hits that will have everyone, (even grandpa), out on the dance floor.

“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson (feat. Bruno Mars)

Who loves Bruno Mars? Everyone. “Uptown Funk” has been a crowd favorite since its release in 2014. With its catchy beat and fun lyrics, this song is a perfect addition to your wedding playlist.

“Marry You” by Bruno Mars

We just have to add another Bruna Mars song to the list because, come on, “Marry You” is just necessary for wedding vibes. This fun and upbeat song will give your guests all the feels. Its playful lyrics are perfect for your wedding day and will most certainly have everyone moving on the dance floor.

“Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake

That’s right, no one could stop the feelings, that’s why you and your boo tied the knot! This song was a smash hit in 2016 and continues to be a popular choice at weddings. Its contagious beat will have your guests dancing the night away.

“Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson

“Billie Jean” is a classic hit that still gets everyone on the dance floor. Its infectious beat, and iconic dance moves will make your guests feel like they are part of a music video. Who wants to steal the dance floor with epic dance battles? It’s bound to happen with this jam.

Wedding DJs Recommend: “You Shook Me All Night Long” by AC/DC

“You Shook Me All Night Long” is a great song choice for wedding receptions with a rock’n’roll vibe. It’s a fun song with high energy that will have everyone singing along “all night long.”

“Love on Top” by Beyoncé

“Love on Top” is a beautiful and sentimental song that will be perfect for your wedding playlist. Its soulful melody and lyrics make for the perfect slow dance song after dinner.

A Top Wedding Song Choice: “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey

“Don’t Stop Believin'” is a classic sing-along song that your guests won’t be able to resist. It’s a perfect song choice to turn up with your friends and family on the dance floor. Even Grandpa might get up and hit the dance floor for this one.

“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” by Whitney Houston

“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” is a great song choice for women who want to throw their heels off and dance with their girlfriends. Its catchy beat and old-school vibe remain a favorite among wedding guests.

“September” by Earth, Wind & Fire

This funky disco classic is the perfect song to get everyone on the dance floor. Its upbeat tempo and positive lyrics will bring a joyful and energetic atmosphere to your reception.

“Hey Ya!” by Outkast

” Hey Ya!” may have come out in 2003, but it still sounds fresh and new. Add this fun and funkadelic hit to your wedding playlist to guarantee a night of dancing and fun.

An Enchanted Evening: The Best Wedding DJs in Chicagoland

Your wedding playlist matters on your big day, and it’s essential to choose some bumping beats that fit your style and get your guests excited. We hope these ten popular wedding songs have given you some ideas and inspiration to create a memorable playlist.

Our wedding DJs at An Enchanted Evening are experts at choosing the perfect songs for your wedding and creating a great party atmosphere. Contact us today to learn more about our services, and get ready to have the time of your life dancing the night away.

A Full List of Wedding Songs Needed for a Wonderful Day

May 24, 2021wedding reception music, wedding reception music chicago il, wedding reception songs chicago ilMike Urban

You spend months (maybe years) planning out almost every moment of your wedding day. So why shouldn’t you plan out wedding music? Now, you can with this full list of songs needed for a wonderful wedding day.

Before we jump to the full list, it’s important to think about the music you’ll need before you walk down the aisle. This is the time to think about wedding playlists for your time in your dressing room getting ready for your big day. You can also plan out your engagement party, showers, rehearsal dinner, and other pre-wedding get togethers.

Ceremony

For your ceremony, you’ll need at least four different songs, including the prelude, processional, bridal processional, and recessional. The prelude is the music that is played when guests enter the ceremony. It is followed by the processional, which is played as attendants walk down the aisle. Bridal processional music is for that beautiful moment when the bride walks down the aisle. After the ceremony, recessional music is played as the wedding party and newlyweds exit. Some couples add other music to their list of wedding songs for the ceremony, especially during key moments. Ceremony music can be played by instrumentalists or a wedding DJ.

Cocktail Hour

Beautiful wedding ceremony music is followed by beautiful cocktail hour music. Again, this list of wedding songs needed for this time can be played by instrumentalists or a wedding DJ. Many wedding DJs offer this service as part of a package. If the DJ charges by the hour, you should ask them before hiring if cocktail hour music is included (along with these other wedding DJ questions). Cocktail hour music flows into the more upbeat songs of the wedding reception.

Wedding Dinner

The list of wedding songs needed for a wedding reception is markedly longer. After all, this is your chance to celebrate! It shouldn’t be surprising then, that the wedding party entrance song is typically and upbeat song. (Note: it doesn’t have to be upbeat! Talk to your wedding DJ for recommendations.) If you want to spice up your entrance, use one of these wedding party entrance ideas.

Once you’ve arrived, it’s time for dinner and toasts. You’ll need music for this time too, so guests can enjoy the atmosphere and each other’s company. If you’re using a wedding DJ, ask them if they can provide dinner music and provide a microphone for toasts. (Not all wedding DJs and bands do.) A wedding DJ can also, if needed, emcee the affair.

When dinner is done, it’s time for the traditional cake cutting (or cupcakes or another non-cake dessert). If you’re using a wedding DJ, ask them to make an announcement for guests and to coordinate the big moment with your videographer and photographer. (Tip: the best wedding DJs know how to work with other professionals to get your key moments on film.)

Wedding Dance

Now for the wedding dance! The wedding dance typically includes a few traditional dances, though you can customize your reception with games and dances—if you hire a band or wedding DJ that customizes their playlist to your preferences. (Make sure you ask your wedding DJ this question when contacting them.) Typically the wedding dance includes these key moments:

Wedding Party Announcement
First Dance (use these first dance ideas to take it to another level)
Mother-Son Dance
Father-Daughter Dance
Last Dance & Exit

You can come up with your own ideas for these dances (with this wedding DJ checklist), or you can ask your wedding DJ for recommendations. (To spice up your reception, use these parent-child dance ideas and first dance ideas.) Remember, have fun!

Wedding Playlist: 5 Ways to Choose the Perfect Wedding Reception Songs

June 26, 2019chicago il wedding dj, chicago wedding djs, choosing a wedding dj, wedding reception songs chicago ilMike Urban

The perfect wedding playlist should more about quality instead of quantity. Instead of asking, “how many songs do DJs play at weddings?” (the answer is typically 15 per hour), think more about the wedding reception songs you want included in your playlist.

Make a list of “special” wedding songs.

The most logical place to start crafting a wedding playlist is by choosing the wedding reception songs that are played during those special moments. After all, these are the memorable moments that you can look back on for years:

Wedding party entrance
Father and daughter dance
Mother and son dance
First dance
Bouquet toss
Garter toss

As you select these songs and the right wedding DJ to play them, be careful about hiring a DJ that doesn’t give you the option to customize your wedding playlist. You don’t want to get stuck with a wedding DJ who uses the same list over and over and doesn’t give you the chance to hear your favorite tunes.

Start listening to songs.

Some couples have a million songs they want played. Others have no clue! It’s okay to fall into either category. If you fall into the latter, the best way to decide on first dance songs and choose a few favorites is to start listening to songs. (If you’re planning a throwback wedding, make sure your ‘must play’ songs are from the right time period.)

Make a short list of favorite and not-so-favorite songs.

The best wedding DJs customize the wedding reception playlist to your special night. (If they don’t, be worried!) You should always choose your wedding DJ carefully (with this list of wedding DJ questions); the best DJs are the source of many memories and are well worth the funds.

Mix it up.

As you make a list of favorites, don’t forget that the wrong song at the wrong moment can really kill the mood—and clear the dance floor! A good wedding DJ can help with selecting the right song at the right time, but you can help them by not overloading your playlist with slow songs.

Don’t nix all your guests’ favorites.

Everyone has a few songs that sound like nails on a chalkboard. However, you should make sure your list of “most hated” songs doesn’t coincide with your guests’ favorites.

Lean on your DJ’s experience and expertise.

Remember that you hired your DJ for a reason. An experienced wedding DJ comes with a whole list of perks. At the top of that list is expertise! A good wedding DJ knows what songs to play at the right time. It’s okay to leave the wedding reception playlist up to them and enjoy an awesome night of wedding songs.

Wedding Reception Music: 10 Questions that Get You Awesome Wedding Songs

May 10, 2019wedding reception music, wedding reception music chicago il, wedding reception music IL, wedding reception playlist, wedding reception songs, wedding reception songs chicago ilMike Urban

The right wedding playlist that guarantees a packed dance floor is different for every couple. As wedding DJs, we’re firm believers that every couple’s wedding reception music should fit their big day (more than a Google search for the top wedding songs can do!)

The good news is that deciding on the right wedding songs can be as simple as sitting down together and asking the right questions. (Think of setting the right wedding playlist as another chance to get to know each other!) The answers to your questions can set the tone for the right wedding playlist, or give you answers to pass on to your band or wedding DJ.

What kind of wedding atmosphere are we trying to plan?

Wedding reception music can be an integral part of establishing a wedding atmosphere. Period specific music can go a long way toward reinforcing a vintage wedding with all those retro details. In the same way, the right wedding songs can be a sign of the trend-setting, modern wedding reception to come.

What is the budget for our wedding reception music?

Couples don’t need a huge wedding budget to get the best music, but they do need to allocate funds according to the items that make the biggest impact on guests. The amount in each category on the wedding budget checklist helps you decide on the right vendors for your big day. These tips can help you decide between a band and DJ, and choosing the right wedding entertainment for your big day.

Do we need an emcee for our wedding reception?

Couples often underestimate the importance of having an emcee to direct the crowd and keep guests on the dance floor. Emcees can make major announcements, point guests to major points of interest (such as a tasting bar or photo booth), and even assist with surprises. A professional emcee, such as a band leader or DJ, has the expertise to make the flow feel effortless and well-planned.

What are our favorite songs?

This is your big night. It’s normal to want a night filled with your favorite songs, but don’t get so set on the idea that you don’t listen to your band or DJ. Together, put your favorite songs down on paper (if you disagree on the list, give each other a certain number of vetoes). Once you’ve hired your wedding entertainer, pass on the list and let them mix it in with top wedding songs that fit with who you are as a couple.

What wedding songs do we hate?

No bride or groom wants to hear songs that give them the same sensation as nails on a chalkboard. In addition to ‘must play’ songs, draft a list of songs that you absolutely hate. Don’t overdo it! Be careful about marking too many of guests’ favorites so they don’t get the chance to dance to their favorite songs.

Do we have any favorite songs that we want for our entrance into the wedding reception?

Your entrance into your wedding reception can be as unique as you want it to be—and the right wedding song puts it over the top. If you have a favorite song that fits the mood you want for your entrance (think excitement, classical, or a song that reinforces a theme), now is the time to put it down on paper. Don’t worry if you can’t come up with the right song; your DJ or band can suggest songs that are right for your wedding reception.

Is there a special song that we want for our first dance?

Some couples have their first song set in stone the first night they meet. For others, it’s not so clear (this list of tips for choosing the first dance song can help). If you want to make the moment completely different, ask your DJ or band to select the right first dance song for the ultimate surprise.

Do we want to play any games during the wedding reception? Are there any surprises we want to include?

Just like wedding songs, put together a list of games that you love and hate (this list of wedding dance games can get you started). If you both hate wedding dance games, it’s okay to hold a wedding reception without a single game; make sure you let the wedding DJ or band know you hate games so there is a clear understanding. If you want to add a surprise to the wedding reception, such as a visitor or celebrity popping up unexpectedly (use this list of wedding surprises to start your planning), let the wedding DJ or band in on the secret. Often, they can take your surprise to another level with wedding songs and announcements.

Are there any curfews or volume limitations we need to follow?

If the wedding venue has any curfews or volume limitations, it’s better to know right away. If an over-the-top wedding dance is a top priority, include the question in the list of questions you ask the wedding venue. Always let the DJ or band know as soon as possible if the answer is a yes. Once you have those important details, use this wedding reception planning checklist and let the wedding planning fun begin.

Tips for Avoiding a Terribly Boring First Dance

February 1, 2019wedding first dance ideas, wedding reception songs chicago ilMike Urban

If you’re a couple who doesn’t want your guests to watch a boring sway back and forth during your first dance, these ideas are for you.

Choreograph the first dance.

Choreographed first dances are all the rage, but the exact nature of the first dance is totally up to you. Depending on your wedding atmosphere, you can choose a traditional dance, an ethnic song that’s close to your heart, or a really modern dance that showcases your moves. Make sure you select a song that totally exudes who you are as a couple (use this list of tips and avoid creepy or awkward songs, for the sake of your guests) and have fun with it. Don’t forget to practice (a lot)!

Surprise guests with a shocking visitor.

A celebrity (or celebrity look alike), friend or family member who lives far away, school mascot…the options are endless for this fun surprise. Remember, mum’s the word for optimal shock value. Be really creative with the idea, and don’t forget to coordinate the surprise with the DJ who can have fun with cool lights and songs perfect for the moment. (Use these tips for choosing a DJ who can totally pull this surprise off.)

Coordinate a surprise medley with the DJ.

One of the newest trends is to mix up the first dance with a medley. This is a great idea for couples who can’t just choose one first dance song or who want to choreograph along with the music. For extra shock factor, start with a slow number and then bust a fun move. If you want to reinforce a wedding theme, choose a series of songs that reinforce the atmosphere. Then, have fun!

Bring on the flash mob.

A flash mob is a fantastic idea for any couple looking to add drama exponentially to their first dance. If you chose a groovy bunch of attendants, include them in on the fun (think of it as a bonding experience). If they politely decline, head to a local entertainment agent or dance studio to hire a flash mob just for the occasion. (As always, don’t forget to mention it to the DJ so he/she can cue the lights and music at just the right time!)

Do a confetti drop.

This first dance idea is for couples who don’t mind a little confetti (or balloons or…) in their hair. Before setting this idea in stone, always ask the venue if they allow a confetti drop. If you get permission, ask the DJ for ideas on how to make the moment extra dramatic.

Add a video to the fun.

If you want to add technology to the first dance, cue up the moment with a video or have a video going while you dance. The video can be a fun montage of all your special moments together, a chronological group of photos or videos that led to this moment, or a group of well-wishing videos from all your friends and family. Either way, it’s a sweet way to build up to your first dance together or—for shyer couples—to take some of the attention off of you.

Ask your DJ for suggestions.

There are a ton of ways to spice up the first dance, and chances are your DJ has seen quite a few of them. Don’t hesitate them about other couples’ first dances so you can customize their idea into your own. Hopefully, you chose your DJ because they are the ultimate pro. Use it!

10 Tips for Selecting the Right First Dance Song

October 19, 2018wedding first dance, wedding first dance ideas, wedding reception music chicago il, wedding reception songs chicago ilMike Urban

A first dance with your new spouse is a special wedding reception moment; one that should be accompanied by a very special song. We’ve assisted many Chicagoland couples with planning their wedding reception—and specifically their wedding first dance. Some couples have a definite idea of what “their” song is, and others are still trying to find the right song for the occasion. If you’re in the latter category, use these tips to select the right first dance song for the perfect wedding reception.

Think back to your early dating days.

Memorable moments can be the perfect inspiration—and the song doesn’t always have to be playing at the time. Sometimes the right song can describe that moment perfectly, either in sentiment or in perfect detail (almost like they were there…).

Ask your family and friends for ideas.

If you want to pay homage to someone special, such as parents or grandparents, ask that person or persons for the song that played during their first dance with their husband or wife. It’s also okay to ask for suggestions from friends and family; it can even be fun to do a general survey and get input from your friends (just remember that it’s your wedding day and your first dance).

Find inspiration in a fav.

How much fun would it be to dance to your absolute favorite song? The right first dance song doesn’t have always have to be slow; if you want a unique first dance that’s close to your heart, opt for your absolute fav song—just make sure it’s your spouse’s new favorite too.

Listen to songs.

The simplest advice for finding the right first dance song for your big day is to just listen. Mix up your favorite tunes and listen to a random mix, both on your own and as a couple.

Make the decision together.

When making the decision for your first dance together as newlyweds, find some commonality so you can make the selection as a couple. Look for some commonality, such as a favorite movie (and movie sound track), musical, or special past time.

Decide what era song is right for your wedding atmosphere.

It’s the age-old wedding first dance debate: modern versus vintage? The answer depends on the existing wedding day details. If planning a vintage wedding, find inspiration in the decade of the wedding. Make a new hobby of listening to the classics and finding the right song that fits your love story.

Have your friends “nominate” songs.

If you want a fun way to get your guests’ input, hold a contest on your wedding website or on the RSVP cards. It’s simple: come up with your top 3 choices for first dance songs and ask your guests to vote on it. Once the votes have been calculated, make a big deal about announcing the winning song at the wedding reception.

Choose the song based on the dance.

Have a favorite dance that shows all your best moves—or a few? Show off your fancy dance moves with a specially choreographed dance or medley. To up the ante, keep your dance lessons a secret from everyone—except your DJ. Get your DJ in on the fun, and let them make a big deal about your surprise.

Keep it short and sweet.

A wedding first dance is a special moment, but don’t let the moment be too long or boring for guests. When choosing the first dance song, choose a song that is not too long (ask your DJ if you are concerned about your first dance song length). You don’t want your guests to leave because it’s taking too long to get back on the dance floor.

Ask the pros for suggestions.

Hopefully, your DJ has been there, done that. (That should be one of the reasons you hired them!) If you’re still lost on the right first dance song, don’t hesitate to ask the seasoned pro for recommendations (and ways to make it over-the-top).