Must-Have Wedding Reception Music | Saphire Event Group

When choosing wedding reception music, you will chat with your band or DJ to discuss what style of music you prefer and what vibe you want on your wedding day. While they will usually have control over the playlist (minus a “do not play” list of course) there are certain moments during your wedding reception where you will want a special song played. We have already posted some of our favorite father/daughter weddings songs, mother/son wedding songs, and first dance songs, and now we are sharing some of our favorite song choices for those other special moments during your wedding reception.

Cake Cutting Songs

It’s very common for your band or DJ to ask if you would like a specific song played during the cake cutting. This can be the perfect moment to choose a fun, lighthearted song (about something “sweet”)! Here are a few of our favorite cake cutting song choices.

wedding reception songs
Angelina Rose Photography

Sugar – Maroon 5

The Sweetest Thing – U2

How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You – James Taylor

Bouquet Toss Songs:

This tradition is a fun way to get all the single ladies on the dance floor. Of course Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” always tops the popularity chart, but we have a few others we love as well.

wedding reception songs
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Little White Church – Little Big Town

It’s Raining Men – The Weather Girls

Uptown Girl – Billy Joel

Garter Toss Songs

Yes, the frisky little traditional of the garter toss is still a popular one. If you don’t know, this is where the groom will dive into your dress in search of a thigh-high garter. They will then fling said garter toward a pack of single men (who were most likely forced onto the dance floor by their un-engaged girlfriends). As long as it’s tastefully done, this can be very entertaining and fun! Here are a few top song choices for the garter toss.

wedding reception songs
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Bad Boys – Inner Circle

She Drives Me Crazy – Fine Young Cannibals

Another Bites the Dust – Queen

Stepparent Dances

While the parent dances tend to take center stage, you might also want to honor a stepparent that has been an influence in your life. You can certainly let the parent dances stand out during the introduction part of the reception, and set a time later in the evening for a stepparent song dedication. By picking a special song and having the DJ invite all your guests to join you both on the dance floor it will create a special moment.

wedding reception songs
First Mate Photo

Thank You For Loving Me – Bon Jovi

You’ve Got A Friend – James Taylor

Can You Feel The Love Tonight – Elton John

Last Wedding Song

The last song of your wedding night is an important choice. It’s often the last impression your friends and family will have of your wedding reception. Our favorite final wedding songs are the ones your guests will all sing at the top of their lungs as the evening comes to a close. Take it from us – if you choose the perfect final wedding song, it will be one of your lasting memories from your special day.

wedding reception songs
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Bye Bye Bye – NSYNC

The Time Of My Life – Billy Medley & Jennifer Warnes

Don’t Stop Believing – Journey

Livin’ On A Prayer – Bon Jovi

We hope these ideas will help you create the perfect wedding play list for your big day. Your DJ or band will play off your crowd and choose a majority of your wedding reception music during the night, but you’ll definitely want those special moment songs decided ahead of time.

Tell us, are there any special songs you will be playing at your wedding?

By: Dana Bates

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