Austin DJs Discuss Grand Entrances
The Grand Entrance: How to Kick Off Your Reception the Right Way
The lineup, the styles, the songs, and the little details that turn a walk through the door into the moment your guests talk about all night.
Your ceremony is done, cocktail hour is winding down, and every guest in the room is turned toward the door. The next few minutes set the energy for the rest of the night. That's the grand entrance, and it's one of my favorite parts of any wedding.
Done well, it's a jolt of excitement that gets people out of their seats and ready to celebrate. Done without a plan, it can feel like a slow roll call. The difference almost always comes down to a little preparation, the right song, and a DJ who knows how to read the room.
What is a grand entrance?
The grand entrance is the moment the newlyweds (and usually the wedding party) are introduced into the reception for the first time. Your DJ or MC announces each person by name over music, and the couple enters last as the big finale. It marks the official start of the party and gives your guests their first chance to cheer for you as a married couple.
The typical lineup
There's no single right order, but this is the flow most couples use:
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1
Parents & grandparents (optional)A sweet way to honor family. Many couples skip this and seat parents before the entrances begin.
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2
Flower girl & ring bearer (optional)Little ones are guaranteed crowd-pleasers. Send them in early, before they lose interest.
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3
The wedding partyUsually in pairs, with the maid of honor and best man entering last to hand off the energy to you.
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4
The newlywedsThe big finish. Your DJ builds the moment, the music hits, and the room erupts.
The first song of your reception tells your guests exactly what kind of party they're at. Choose it on purpose.
Five grand entrance styles
Pick the one that fits your personalities, and your wedding party's comfort level.
Grand entrance song ideas by vibe
A great entrance song is instantly recognizable, upbeat from the first few seconds, and fun for every generation in the room. A few crowd favorites to get you started:
- Crazy in LoveBeyoncé
- Can't Hold UsMacklemore & Ryan Lewis
- Uptown FunkMark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
- Don't Stop Me NowQueen
- Mr. BrightsideThe Killers
- Signed, Sealed, DeliveredStevie Wonder
- SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire
- Marry YouBruno Mars
- Shut Up and DanceWALK THE MOON
- Walking on SunshineKatrina & The Waves
- Boot Scootin' BoogieBrooks & Dunn
- Chicken FriedZac Brown Band
- Friends in Low PlacesGarth Brooks
- All My Ex's Live in TexasGeorge Strait
- Tennessee WhiskeyChris Stapleton (for a slow, swoony entrance)
Tip: ask your DJ to cue your song at its best moment, like the drop or the chorus, instead of from the very beginning.
Tips for a smooth, high-energy entrance
- Send names with phonetic spellings. Your DJ should know exactly how to say every name, especially tricky ones. Include how you'd like to be introduced as a couple.
- Line up before the music starts. Have your planner or coordinator gather everyone in order just outside the doors a few minutes early.
- Keep it moving. Short and punchy beats long and drawn out. Your guests are hungry and ready to party.
- Loop in your photographer and videographer. They'll want to be in position at the door and on the dance floor before the first name is called.
- Pick clean edits. Grandma is in the front row. Your DJ can play radio-friendly versions of any song.
- Know what comes next. First dance, welcome toast, or straight to dinner? Deciding ahead keeps the momentum going.
How your DJ brings it all together
A great grand entrance is equal parts music and MC work. Before your wedding, we'll walk through your lineup, confirm every name, and pick songs together. On the day, we coordinate with your planner and photographer, fade the cocktail-hour music, build anticipation with the room, and time each introduction so the energy peaks right as you two walk through the door.
Want lighting to match? Reception uplighting and a spotlight on the doorway make the moment feel even bigger, and look fantastic in photos.
Grand entrance FAQ
Your grand entrance only lasts a few minutes, but it sets the tone for the whole night. Pick a style that feels like you, choose a song you love, and let your DJ handle the rest.
Ready to make your grand entrance unforgettable?
Tell us about your day and we'll help you plan the music, the MC moments, and the lighting that bring it to life.
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