Crafting Your Perfect 2016 Wedding Playlist
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, and your playlist should reflect that. In 2016, music trends were diverse, offering a rich tapestry of genres and styles to choose from. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you create a wedding playlist that's as unique as your love story.
Understanding the 2016 Music Landscape
2016 was a year of eclectic music, with pop, EDM, and indie genres dominating the charts. Some of the most popular artists included Adele, Drake, Justin Bieber, and The Chainsmokers. Understanding these trends can help you curate a playlist that resonates with your guests while staying true to your musical preferences.
Setting the Tone: Ceremony vs. Reception
Your wedding playlist should tell a story, with different chapters for the ceremony and reception. For the ceremony, opt for instrumental or soft vocals that complement the solemnity of the occasion. Consider using a string quartet or a pianist to play popular songs in a classical style.
Ceremony Entrance and Exit Songs
- Bruno Mars - "Marry You" (2016 version)
- Adele - "Make You Feel My Love"
- Ed Sheeran - "Thinking Out Loud"
- Coldplay - "Fix You"
Reception Uptempo and Slow Dance Songs
For the reception, mix upbeat dance tracks with slow jams to cater to different tastes and energy levels. Here's a balanced playlist to get you started:
| Uptempo | Slow Dance |
|---|---|
| The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey - "Closer" | Adele - "Hello" |
| Drake - "One Dance" | Justin Bieber - "Love Yourself" |
| Justin Timberlake - "Can't Stop The Feeling!" | Beyoncé - "Halo" |
| Sia - "Cheap Thrills" | John Legend - "All of Me" |
Incorporating Personal Favorites
Your wedding playlist should be a reflection of you as a couple. Don't be afraid to include personal favorites, even if they're not mainstream hits. This will make your playlist unique and memorable. You can also ask your guests to submit their favorite songs to create a collaborative playlist.
Timing is Everything
Plan your playlist in segments to keep the energy up and the dance floor packed. Start with upbeat songs to get guests in the mood, then mix in slower tracks to give them a chance to catch their breath. As the night goes on, you can pick up the pace again with more energetic tunes.
Hiring a DJ or Using a Playlist Service
If you're hiring a DJ, provide them with your playlist and any specific requests. They can help you transition between songs and read the crowd to keep the party going. Alternatively, you can use a playlist service like Spotify or Apple Music to create and manage your playlist. Just make sure to download your playlist in case of any internet connectivity issues.
Creating a 2016 wedding playlist is an exciting task that allows you to express your musical tastes and set the tone for your special day. By incorporating popular hits, personal favorites, and well-planned transitions, you'll create a playlist that your guests will love and remember for years to come.