Tips for Hosting an Unforgettable Reception

The most memorable part of wedding day? Arguably, what happens on the dancefloor. After a long day of photos, tears, and vows, couples letting loose on the dancefloor is one of our favorite things to see at weddings.

We believe you should have a reception to be remembered, so we chatted with the experts on tips to get the party started!

Photo 1: Honey Lens | Photo 2: The Lang Co. | Photo 3: Abby Schwantz

Hire a DJ that is going to pack the dance floor

Choosing a DJ is one of the most crucial vendor decisions you can make on your wedding day! Although we love to see a DJ pack the dancefloor, their job is so much more than that – running the first dance & toast timelines, assisting catering during dinner, AND MORE – it is so important to hire a professional who is going to make your day sparkle!

Just a few of our favorites?

Considering live music for your day? We’ve got you covered there too. A few favorite suggestions:

Deoc Ensemble – string trios + quartets for ceremony and cocktail hour
The Flying Toasters – Fabulous party band
Elizabeth Ahlgrim – beautiful harp music

Baylee & Andrew’s day captured by Holly Lea Photography

We chatted with Sixpence Preferred vendor Ryan McDonald of MAC Events to get his take on approaching your reception:

We asked: What’s your #1 tip for a packed dance floor?

Ryan: Look at your guests and have a variety of music that all ages would enjoy. If you guests are all older, you’re probably not gonna pack the dance floor playing current club music and hip-hop!

Sixpence: Best advice for couples nervous for their first dance?

RM: HAVE FUN WITH IT. Also, communicate with your DJ if you want to be out there for a shorter amount of time- Have them cut it after a chorus or two where the song naturally transitions.

Sixpence: What should couples be asking when looking for their perfect wedding DJ?

RM: Meet with the person who is going to be the DJ for your Wedding! Make sure you vibe with them because they are the person who is going to run the show for your wedding. Also if you meet with someone you do vibe with BOOK THEM and do not wait they will be gone before you know it.

Late-Night Bites & Signature Cocktails

We love to see how couples personalize their food & drink experiences on wedding day. From signature cocktails named after beloved pets to iconic favorite snacks served late into the evening – Strategically served beverage and light bites can really keep the party flowing!

Our tips:

Peruse your venue’s bar offerings and decide on a bar package that fits the party you want to host – ask about custom cocktail options to truly maximize your experience!
Ask your caterer about late night bites. After a few hours of dancing, dinner will feel like ages ago, and planning to serve something sweet or salty to satisfy those dancefloor cravings will make you host of the year! Some of the favorite late night bites we’ve seen: pizza, mini burgers, grilled cheese (what can we say, the heart wants what it wants after a great night!)

Jenna & Bobby’s day captured by Brittney Moseby

The Speeches

When it comes to speeches we have seen it all, so here’s our take!

If you want to avoid a ton of speeches at your reception, consider utilizing your rehearsal dinner for some or most planned speeches. This can sometimes feel even more intimate and special, as it gives you time to soak in every word with a smaller crowd!
2-5 minutes – that’s the sweet spot for speeches. Ask your loved ones to stick to it, and ask them to prepare (at least a little) to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Coordinate a private last dance with your new SPOUSE

One of our favorite new traditions is coordinating a private last dance as newlyweds! This is the *perfect* way to end the first day of the rest of your life together!

Photo 1: Capturing Simplicity | Photo 2: Julia Elise | Photo 3: Abby Schwantz

Consider an outfit change

From glimmering gowns & jumpsuits to stylish minis we love seeing our couples express their personalities through reception outfit changes!

Some of our favorite places to shop for reception options:

Photo 1: The Lang Co | Photo 2: Avery Louise Photography | Photo 3: Kim Kaye Photography

Plan a fun & memorable exit

What better way to end the day of your dreams than a flashy grand exit and an iconic getaway car!

We’ve seen so many different fun grand exits at The Sixpence, from a firetruck, to a motorcycle, vintage cars, party busses – You really can’t go wrong choosing something that’s fun and true to you!