What’s a great party without tunes? Beyond choosing the perfect venue (South Lake Tahoe, anyone?), the entrées and the flower arrangements for the tables, a great wedding reception needs a killer playlist. It can be tricky to choose music that will satisfy the 20-something crowd and your grandmother at the same time. But put a little bit of thought into your wedding soundtrack and you’ll have everyone — even your grandmother — out on that dance floor and ready to party.
We chose 15 of our all-time favorite wedding reception tunes — which songs would you add to the mix?
photo courtesy of Lake Tahoe Cruises/Zephyr Cove Resort
Classic love songs
Love the tried-and-true sounds of love songs from the past? Think classy and elegant wedding reception, like a sit-down dinner in the Queen of the Lake ballroom at Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel or an intimate gathering on the Tahoe Queen with champagne and hors d’oeuvres. Here are our picks for that classic, romantic sound.
“At Last” by Etta James
“Marry Me” by Train
“It Had to be You” by Tony Bennett
“Marry You” by Bruno Mars
“Bubbly” by Colbie Caillat
photo courtesy of Beach Retreat & Lodge
Dance the night away songs
Does your crowd love to hog the dance floor? Picture a dance floor under the stars on the beach at the Beach Retreat & Lodge or dancing the night away at The Ridge Tahoe. From your high school friends to your grandparents, these songs will get them off their feet.
“Twist and Shout” by the Beatles
“Love Shack” by the B-52s
“Happy” by Pharrell Williams
“I Gotta Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas
“Take On Me” by A-ha
photo courtesy of The Ridge Tahoe
Rock and roll reception
Sure, we all love the classic dance songs you would expect to hear at a wedding. But sometimes, you need a little rock and roll to liven things up. Who knows, even your grandmother and Aunt Mabel might go a little crazy and tear up the floor! We picture a rocking reception at the Hard Rock Cafe Tahoe or a crazy-fun wedding reception in the outdoor heated event pavilion at The Landing Resort & Spa. Here are a few of our favorite rock songs to get your dance party started.
“Moves Like Jagger” by Maroon 5
“You Shook Me All Night Long” by AC/DC
“Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi
“Mony Mony” by Billy Idol
“Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey
Ready to hit the dance floor and celebrate your wedding? Which songs would you add to the list?
