Living in Florida makes weddings in paradise a piece of cake! The beach is just a short drive away no matter where you are in the Sunshine State. The smell of salt and sunscreen, colorful umbrellas, the elegance of the sun setting over the waves… what’s not to love about a beach wedding?! There are tons of great songs to get your surf on to, but we’ve done all the work for you so you can relax and enjoy your special day by the water.
Here’s our list of songs to get your feet wet:
I’d Rather Be with You – Joshua Radin
Better Together – Jack Johnson
Ordinary Girl – Rebelution
Whole Wide World – Bahamas
Lucky – Jason Mraz, Colbie Caillat
Fallin’ for You – Colbie Caillat
The Way I Am – Ingrid Michaelson
Eyes – Rogue Wave
Riptide – Vance Joy
Say Hey (I Love You) – Michael Franti & Spearhead
Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World – Isreal Kamakawiwo’ole
I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You – Orchid and Beryl
More Than Words – Extreme
Lean on Me — The Voice Performance – Nicholas David
These days a ton of great music is played live at Coachella instead of on the radio. All the cool kids are listening to mixtapes again (even if they’re on CDs now). Spotify’s Discover Weekly is all the rage with bands nobody’s ever heard of. Want some of that effortlessly cool style on your wedding day? Here are some songs for that trendy modern twist to impress your friends with.
Many traditions are still held in weddings till this day, however things change as time precedes on. We have had clients whose fathers passed away when they were young, so they will never get the chance to have a father daughter dance, or have him walk them down the aisle. But they still have someone very close to their heart and can represent him and his love, their mother. The woman who gave them life and love, who held their hand through every section of life when their father could not. A question you might ask yourself as a bride: how could I possibly honor both people in my life who held such a significant role? To give her the “Mother Daughter Dance”, this would keep the tradition and honor of both their parents. Songs are hard to choose because the lyrics and notes speak to someone on a personal level, but now you can pick something that would represent your mother and what she means to you. Listed below are just a few songs in the world of many that might make your heart take flight as you listen to them and take you back to a time and place where things were simple. Playing dress up and having a tea party with water in the cups, doing the most wonderful makeup on your mother while wearing her heels. Right now you are a bride, but just for a little while longer you are her little Princess and still playing dress up with dreams large enough to reach the sky.
There goes grandpa. Running off to the dance floor. Or maybe that was more of a fast waddle. Nonetheless, what song is playing that old Grandpa Bob loves so much? Why does he all of a sudden have so much energy, when he was practically falling asleep at your ceremony? Aha! He simply loves the music being played. It brings him back to his heyday. Reception music is highly important, not only to you, but to your guests. Who doesn’t look forward to a wedding reception? For guests, it’s the holy grail of the whole wedding day. That’s their time to take off the heels or undo the tie that’s been choking them to death, and go absolutely crazy. Or, if that’s not your taste, the music should be apropos to the mood you’re setting. No one is going to break out the cat daddy while Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds” is playing. Different weddings require different types of music. You have to choose music that reflects your personality, while also catering to your guests. Still confused? Yeah me too. Read on, I’ll try to make it better.
Photo Cred: Kellogg Campus Week
We have experienced a trend in reception music selection. The type of music that brides and grooms select, in some way, reflect them. Shocking! Age is the biggest factor on music selection. If you’re 70 years young, Jay Z may not be your cup of tea, which is totally fine! These details are exactly what we need to figure out. Luckily, if you have an amazing DJ (like those of us at Tagas *wink*), you can fill out a planning packet. What is a planning packet? It’s a file where you detail exactly what type of music you do and do not want, the atmosphere you would like to set during the reception, and how much interaction you wish your DJ to have throughout the reception. After thumbing through some packets, we noticed a couple of trends when it comes to reception music.
Dinner Music- I don’t know about any of you, but if I’m hungry, I am a grump. I’m assuming that is why most receptions start out with dinner. Dinner music is just as important as the songs you choose for the dancing portion of the night. The first aspect to look at, is what type of wedding you’re having. A popular option for all weddings is music by Peter Lee Johnson. If you don’t know PLJ, he’s a young guy who makes violin covers of numerous top 40 songs. Check him out on Youtube, he’s amazing. Additional popular dinner choices include music by Jason Mraz, different acoustic covers of songs, and Michael Buble.
The Beach Wedding- If you’re having a beach wedding, or destination wedding somewhere like Hawaii (wooh Aloha!), a laid back vibe is always a good idea. Most beachy brides and grooms prefer a cocktail hour reception with not a lot of DJ interaction. Popular beach music includes Jimmy Buffett and Hootie and the Blowfish.
The Older Couple/ Older Guests- So it turns out grandpa was a Jitterbug back in his day and he loves swing music! Well he’s not alone. Most older couples or guests favor traditional 1950’s music, including swing and Rat Pack type of music.
The 80’s Couple- “It’s a nice day for a.. white wedding.” A little Billy Idol for those 1980’s brides and grooms. You’re welcome. Popular music choices for you guys include ACDC, Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, and Michael Jackson.
The Young Couple- Most young couples are going to request top 40’s or house music. Top 40 music is always a great choice because most guests will know/recognize it, even those “hip and with it” parents. And if they don’t recognize it, it’s always easy to dance to. Win win.
So there it is, a little guide to choosing your reception music. Remember, this is just an outline so feel free to mix ideas, music, genres, etc! Make your reception something to remember. Have the guests leave with sore muscles, body aches and even better, a hurt ego. (Another quick tip: get a videographer for some evidence) Now go get planning, there’s no time like the present, and this is the fun part of the process!
Everyone loves a mama’s boy. Everyone loves music. Everyone loves a wedding. Wonder where I’m going with this? We’ve compiled a list that combines all three features together! “Top 7 Mother and Son Dance Songs” will answer any questions you could possibly have in this lifetime… about mother/ son dance songs of course. So sit tight, grab some popcorn and check out this blog.
1. A Song for Mama by Boyz II Men- “Mama you’re the queen of my heart.” I normally pride myself on being able to keep it together, but literally, every word in this song makes me want to snuggle up in my moms arms and cry. I know that sounds totally awkward, and it can be, but listen to this song and you’ll totally get it. This whole song is an ode to your mother, what could be a better song? Keep reading if you’re not satisfied.
2. The Perfect Fan by Backstreet Boys- “I wanna thank you for what you’ve done, in hopes I can give back to you, and be the perfect son.” Well, if that doesn’t say it all… I’ll say more. Chances are most of the bridesmaids will know this song so you can have your own personal background singers that you never asked for. “The Perfect Fan” will have so many fans, they’ll never forget that dance. I’ll try to refrain from any more cheesy lines today.
3. Simple Man by Shinedown- “You’ll find a woman, and you’ll find love.” This song is different in that it almost comes from the mother’s perspective. The lyrics go over how a mother would want any son to act, and chances are your hubby is everything this song describes. Hence, why he’s getting married!
4. Simply the Best by Tina Turner- “You’re simply the best, better than all the rest.” If you’re looking for more of an upbeat, fast paced song, here you go.“Simply the Best” will have your guests up out of their seats and dancing around the dancefloor. Key word being “around.” Elbow your guests off the dancefloor and send them to the outer perimeter because this is mom’s time to shine.
5. Over the Rainbow by Eva Cassidy- “The dreams that you dare to dream really do come true.” *Sigh* Who doesn’t want their dreams to come true? That was a rhetorical question and cheesy line number two. This is a different version of the classic “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and is accompanied by a piano. It’s a perfect mother and son dance song because it has a nostalgic feel to it. You can reminisce with your mom while dancing. Multitasking!
6. I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston- “And iiiiiiiiii yeee I will always love youuuuhoooo.” Everyone, I mean everyone, has sung this song at the top of their lungs. Thanks to the late, great Whitney Houston, we all have a classic song that can go with any occasion. The mother and son dance is no exception.
7. Stand By Me by Prince Royce- “Oh I won’t shed a tear, porque se que tu estas junto a mi.” I translated this line (thanks google translate!) and it means “because I know that you’re next to me.” Who doesn’t feel a total sense of comfort when their moms next to them? This version of “Stand By Me” just radiates salsa flavor, so why not embrace it? Hopefully you can actually dance, or else maybe this song isn’t good for you.
Your wedding was perfect. Your reception is going absolutely phenomenal. Your videographer has documented your guests making absolute fools of themselves out on the dance floor (perfect blackmail.) Even great grandma is out there busting out the worm. Everyone is having the time of their life out on the dance floor; it is their stage after all. The only downfall, no one wants to leave the party. Unfortunately for you, your DJ is charging more for any overtime that could be incurred, which was so not in your budget. How are you going to signal to your guests that your awesome party is over? You are going to read our article, that’s what you’re going to do (duh)! We have compiled the top seven songs that will gracefully end the party. It will signal to your guests “get out” in the nicest way possible. You’re welcome in advance.
1. Closing Time by Semisonic-To start out our list, we are going totally 90’s on you. “Closing Time” is a perfect song to end the party. It isn’t upbeat enough for people to shake their groove thing, but it is upbeat enough for them to leave with happy feelings. The song literally says “you don’t have to go home, but you can’t stay here.” Can you ask for anything better? If you’re saying “yes”… that’s rude, but keep reading. We have even more songs.
2. Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey- Who doesn’t know this song? Thanks to Glee, this song has gained popularity between all ages. This is the perfect karaoke song. Guaranteed all your guests will whip out their invisible microphones, and go to town. They are now rockstars, and they have your reception to thank for that. “Don’t Stop Believin’” is a high way to end the party. Your guests will be running out the door after this classic, because now they believe they have can conquer the world. Yes, it is that uplifting.
3. Good Riddance by Greenday- Want to leave your guests with a sentimental feeling? Well, here’s your song. The name is sometimes misleading, but yes, you probably know this song. “It’s something unpredictable, but in the end it’s right. I hope you had the time of your life.” Yes it’s that one. A very slow song, it’s a good one to sway to and get close with your guests. This song just screams “you’re welcome for such a bumpin’ party, but it’s time to come in for a hug.” Or maybe it doesn’t. But I do guarantee, you and your guests will have confused feelings on whether to cry or smile. Or both at the same time. What a perfect way to end such an emotional day.
4. Don’t Stop the Party by Pitbull- Yes, we’ve said it once, we’ll say it again. Chances are no one is ready to leave your reception. “Don’t Stop the Party” is a great way to tease your guests, and probably make them continue the party. Just not in your reception space. So if you want to keep the party going elsewhere, this song is perfect. It also leaves your guests on a festive note so they depart knowing your reception was a legit party
5. Bye Bye Bye by N Sync- This musical gem was made in 2000, and is still sung by everyone who hears it, no matter where you are. Let’s be real, are there any bad N Sync songs? Don’t act like you don’t remember the dance. “Ain’t no lie, baby bye bye bye!” (signal three sharp goodbye movements across the room). And there is your dance lesson for the day. Guys aren’t even ashamed to rock out to some N Sync, especially after the open bar. Yeah guys, don’t act like you don’t know what I’m talking about. This is a definite crowd favorite and will have everyone up and showing their best boy band moves.
6. Save the Last Dance for Me by Michael Buble- The song is called “Save the Last Dance for Me”. Need I say more? Well I’m going to. Everyone loves some Michael Buble, especially at weddings. Peppy and classic, this song will definitely get your guests up and moving. It will also make your guests think… “who do I want to dance with for this last song?” Better make a good choice, because this song has such a romantic feel to it you don’t want to screw it up by dancing with someone with two left feet.
7. I’ll Be There for You by The Rembrandts- Better known as “The Friends Theme Song.” This song is popular for weddings because it reminds everyone why they are even at this wedding. They are there for you on your special day, that’s why. Your guests will be nervous, preparing for those fast five claps in the beginning of the song. (So no one told you life was gonna be this way. *clap clap clap clap clap*) Everyone will be jumping up and down, pointing to their best friends while laughing and smiling. Obviously, a prime way to end your party.
So there you have it, top seven songs to end a party. We have given you the tools to pick a last song for the night from different decades of music. If you’re still unsure about your song, you can always rely on the DJ to choose or recommend a song. It is their job after all, rest assured they know what they’re talking about. If you just totally did not understand any of this blog, we can help you out better with an email! Just email us at info@fyerflyproductions.com and we’ll answer any of your questions.
