When clients plan a wedding or any event that requires music to be played during a cocktail or social hour, they usually do not think about the music played during this time period. Quite frankly, I would not think of that either if I was not already a wedding entertainer. Cocktail hour is, more times than not, an afterthought. In fact, most brides and grooms never even attend cocktail hour as they are out taking pictures. I would think that most of our clients say to themselves…”Our DJ knows what to play during that time. I trust him!”
There are many different approaches to take, the most popular being smooth jazz. Artists like Paul Hardcastle, The Sax Pack, Fourplay, Dave Koz and Richard Elliott to name a few are excellent selections. This instrumental style can be combined with vocal music from artists like Michael Buble’, Billy Joel, Norah Jones, Sade, and Diana Krall. I like to set a romantic, but upbeat theme with the music during cocktail hour.
Of course, you may want more traditional songs for cocktail hour from artists like Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, Etta James and Dean Martin or perhaps you have a ocean front event, which would certainly benefit from a tropical/island theme with steel drum/calypso music. Other clients have requested a 50s “Doo Wop” program or even classical music.
What ever your taste and style, the key is to be unique and HAVE FUN! Remember that we are here to assist you with music planning. Feel free to discuss this with any of the entertainers at Music In Motion Entertainment of Seymour, CT as we are ready to make your event one to remember from start to finish!
