Dancing Through the Decades

Photo Credit: LEANNE + ANDREW HAPPER WEDDING - KCMOOREFOTOWEDDINGS 

Music is a wonderful thing; it has the power to transport us back to a specific moment, evoke strong emotions, and bring people together in a joyous way. 

For your wedding day, choosing the right music is about far more than just picking a few songs; it is about crafting a soundtrack that reflects your unique love story and sets the perfect atmosphere for every part of your celebration. 

Here at Larkspur Lodge, we see so many wonderful and varied musical choices, and it is always a delight to see how couples weave their personalities into their big day through the melodies they choose.

From the gentle hum as your guests arrive, to the emotional walk down the aisle, the celebratory signing of the register, and of course, the lively evening reception, each moment offers an opportunity for music to truly shine. 

We often find that couples sometimes focus heavily on the first dance (which is entirely understandable!), but giving thought to the tunes that will accompany each part of the day can make all the difference. We have seen everything from classical string quartets creating a sophisticated backdrop to lively bands that have everyone on their feet, and DJs expertly blending genres to keep the dance floor buzzing.

This is your chance to think about the kind of atmosphere you would like to create. Do you dream of a traditional and elegant affair, with timeless classics filling the air? Or perhaps a more modern, laid-back vibe with acoustic covers of your favourite contemporary hits? There is no right or wrong answer, and often, the most memorable weddings are those that blend different styles to create something truly unique and personal.

Evening Reception Inspiration

The evening reception is where the music truly comes alive, and where you have the chance to create an unforgettable party atmosphere. To cater to all your guests, from your grandparents to your youngest nieces and nephews, it is often helpful to think about music that spans the decades. 

A good DJ or live band will be masters at reading the room and seamlessly transitioning between different styles, but having a varied playlist in mind is a super starting point.

The Swinging Sixties and Seventies Sparkle

For a touch of nostalgia and undeniable feel-good vibes, the 60s and 70s offer a treasure trove of hits. Think Motown classics that get everyone tapping their feet, soulful ballads that invite a romantic slow dance, and disco anthems that simply demand movement. 

Songs from artists such as The Beatles, The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and Earth, Wind & Fire are often guaranteed crowd-pleasers. These decades bring a warmth and familiarity that many generations will appreciate.

The Electric Eighties and Nineties Nostalgia

The 80s brought us synthesisers, big hair, and some truly iconic pop and rock anthems. This era is perfect for getting people onto the dance floor with its infectious beats and sing-along choruses. 

From energetic pop hits to classic rock power ballads, there is a huge variety to explore. Moving into the 90s, you find everything from Britpop and R&B to dance tracks that defined a generation. Consider artists like Queen, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Oasis, and Spice Girls to get your guests reliving their younger days with gusto.

Noughties and Beyond

The last couple of decades have given us an incredible array of music, from pop sensations to indie anthems and R&B grooves. This is where you can truly inject your personal favourites and current chart-toppers. 

Ed Sheeran, Beyoncé, Bruno Mars, and Taylor Swift are just a few of the artists who have created modern classics that are perfect for a wedding celebration. Do not forget to include some of your absolute must-have tracks that you and your partner love to dance to, as these are the songs that will truly make the evening feel like ‘you’.

Curating Your Perfect Playlist

When thinking about your music, it can be helpful to discuss your preferences with your chosen band or DJ. They are experts at crafting a flow that keeps the energy high and the dance floor full. You might also want to ask for their suggestions, as they often have a deep knowledge of what works well in a wedding setting.

Consider the different moments of the evening. Perhaps some softer background music during the wedding breakfast, building up to something more energetic for the first dance, and then a dynamic mix for the main party. You can even have a ‘last dance’ song that brings everyone together for a final, memorable moment.

It is always a lovely idea to ask your guests for song requests on your RSVP cards. This not only gives you some fresh ideas but also means your guests will feel more involved and excited when their chosen tune plays. It is a simple touch that can add a lot of fun to the evening.

The goal is to create a joyful atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and ready to celebrate with you. Larkspur Lodge offers such a wonderful setting for celebrations, and we are always delighted to see the dance floor come alive. We have a great sound system available, and facilities that accommodate live bands, ensuring your musical choices sound their very best.

We hope this has given you some fun ideas for choosing the music that will soundtrack your special day. If you would like to explore our beautiful venue further or discuss how we can help with your wedding planning, please do take a look at our brochure. 

We would love for you to get in touch with us to begin planning your Larkspur Lodge celebration. Fancy coming and having a look round? Book in now!