How to Keep the Dance Floor Packed All Night Long

How does a band or DJ accomplish such a feat? This job is not just the responsibility of the entertainment alone. There are many factors to take into consideration:

• The most important rule is that the bride and groom need to stay on the dance floor. The guests are there to be with you. Where you go, they will follow. 

• Liquid courage is a close second on the list – and with some, numero uno. Make sure the bar is open and stays open. When the music and booze stop, the party is over. Placement of the bar is equally as important. Try to have the bar as close to the dance floor as possible. Putting the alcohol and sweets in another room is way too enticing and will take your guests away from the fun. If there is no room for a sweets table in the reception area and you need to place it outside in the foyer, a great solution is to have the staff pass out some late-night goodies or shooters on the dance floor. I have seen some go as far as passing out 5-hour Energy drinks to keep the festivities hopping.

• Song selection can make or break your evening. Never exclude a generation of dancers for more than two or three songs. Even though it's your party and you and your friends may love steampunk, there is a time and place for everyone to get a little of whatever gets their groove on. There are many genres of music to enjoy, but the night is a lot shorter than you think. It’s okay to be specific about what you like, but keep in mind that variety is the spice of life. The rule of thumb here is choosing danceable and recognizable songs. Most couples initially don’t want any ballads (slow songs). But feel free to play a few. People do need an ear break and there is an entire group of non-dancers that are waiting to be romantic. 

• The last tip of the day is to use your special dances (First Dance, Father/Daughter, and Mother/Son) as a tool to pack the dance floor. This can be achieved by inviting all guests to the dance floor halfway through the song to join and help you celebrate. There is an unwritten obligation to this concept, making it very difficult for your guests to refuse the invitation. Ethnic dances are also in this category and are a guaranteed way to pack the dance floor.

Make sure that you have a meeting with your entertainment at least one month before your event to go over your song selections and timing. Congratulations…and have fun!

Larry King Orchestra (LKO) has been servicing the entertainment needs of private event clients spanning the globe for over 17 years. Learn more about LKO by visiting their vendor listing in our directory!

Opening photo by Carasco Photography