Louisiana Wedding Receptions Are So Much Better With Less Light

(KTDY-FM) - Wedding season is rapidly approaching, and if brides want to have a great reception, with lots of dancing, they need to arrange this before the reception even starts.

I've provided music for wedding receptions for over 20 years, and when I say I've seen it all, I genuinely have.

I have seen the good, the bad, and the wild at wedding receptions in Acadiana, and I have also witnessed some receptions that should have been very upbeat and fun, but fell flat — until someone noticed what was going on.

Families spend a lot of money on weddings, and that all wraps up with a celebration for the newlyweds and guests, but if one thing remains on for most of the night, it can ruin the fun. The one thing I'm talking about is lights.

Yes, I have seen wedding receptions nearly ruined because there was too much light in the venue after formal dances. Whether from the venue itself or videographers with really bright spotlights, too much light discourages people from dancing and having fun.

Sure, you need good lighting to capture moments throughout the night, but if bright lights stay on the whole night, you can bank on the fact that the reception will never reach the fun/energy you hoped for.

I'll never forget a reception I was DJing at, where the videographer had his spotlights on for most of the night. However, the moment he turned them off, the dance floor filled, and the fun began. I've said it for years, and I'll repeat it: people don't want to be seen while on the dance floor.

So what can you do to ensure the mood is just right? I always suggest to brides that they make arrangements before their big night with the venue, photographers, videographers, and even entertainment to ensure that there isn't too much light on the dance floor once the party "gets started."

To be clear, I am not suggesting you blackout the venue after formal dances, just lower the lights, and watch the fun begin. With good coordination from all involved on the night, your wedding reception can be one that everyone talks about for years to come.

Plan ahead, lower the lights, and let the party ensue. After all, you hope to have only one night like this in your life, if you get what I'm saying.

What Makes For A Perfect Wedding Reception Venue

If you're looking for the perfect wedding reception venue, ensure the room can accommodate the number of guests you've invited. Also, make sure that the venue is either properly heated or cooled, depending on the time of year you're getting married..

A new trend some brides are exploring when it comes to venues is the style of bar within the venue. The U-shaped bar seems to be a favorite now, as it allows guests to be easily served.

Lastly, parking is another significant factor to consider when choosing the right venue. If guests have trouble parking or must walk a considerable distance to the reception after parking, that can be an inconvenience for many.