Keep your guests engaged and entertained Author: Jake Long (Party Pleasers DJ) Photo Credit: Full Frame Photography

When talking with couples, I like to ask what is most important to them. 9 times out of 10 they will say something like “We just want our guests to have a good time”.  Well, as DJs and emcees that is exactly what we want too! When your guests are enjoying themselves that means they are out there laughing, interacting, and dancing. To help you accomplish that, here are 5 tips to help treat your guests to a memorable night.

Tip #1:

After attending your beautiful ceremony and having some cocktails, it is time for dinner. Your guest count may be as high as 200+ people and all of them need to get through a buffet line.  By the time the last table is called, the first few tables are already done eating. By that time, your first table guests are checking their phones, or attempting to make awkward small talk while they wait. One way to keep them from getting bored is to provide some type of “entertainment”.  Whether or not your guests are directly involved or not, dinner-theatre focuses attention towards you while giving them something to watch. Having your DJ host games like the shoelywed game, or table release trivia provides an entertaining atmosphere  for all your guests.

Tip#2:

As dinner is winding up, your guests have been sitting for nearly an hour.  Having your photographer take a group photo is an excellent way to shake off the dust and get everyone up and moving.  Also, this photo creates an incredible keepsake capturing all of your family and friends in attendance. Many people are afraid they cannot cram 300 people on a dance floor, but when everyone is in place the picture is worth the 5 minute investment.  Also, breaking the ice of opening the dance floor is easy from there!

Tip#3:

Allow your guests to request music.  Although this sounds scary, just be sure to make your boundaries clear with your DJ. This way, when that “one friend” comes up to request Drops of Jupiter, your DJ will know not to play that song, because it reminds you of your 8^th grade ex-boyfriend.  Giving your guests this freedom will make them feel more involved in the event.  You will also be pleasantly surprised the when your friend requests that perfect throwback song that you completely forgot to add to the list.

Tip#4:

Weave interactive options into the dancing portion of your reception.  Having a special dance or incorporating interactive events can do a few different things to stimulate your party.  First, it can bring out some of the not so confident friends and family by providing a safe space for them to let loose.  Second, the shift in momentum during dancing can re-engage your guests bringing them back out to the floor.  Third, it can give your guests a break to grab a drink or take off their shoes before getting back to dancing.  Some options to consider are an anniversary dance, dance off or dollar dance.

Tip#5:

Finally, for all those guests who have stayed the entire night to celebrate with you, make the last dance a memorable highlight. Ask your DJ to invite every guest to join you on the dance floor for one last song.   Rather than the traditional slow song, play a song to make your guests “sing-a–long” and have them create a giant arm-in -arm circle around you.  After the last song sparklers or fireworks can top of the event and give you one last incredible photo opportunity.

The bottom line to a great event is working with professionals who will tailor the event to YOU!  Party Pleasers Services will work with you to incorporate these or many other options to make your event unique.  Contact them in Cincinnati, Dayton or Columbus.