Drinks Reception - have you considered LIVE music for your guests?

Drinks Reception Music: Setting the Perfect Atmosphere with Laura Seymour Violin

The drinks reception is the perfect moment to set the tone for the next chapter of your wedding celebration. As you and your guests unwind and mingle after the ceremony, the right music can elevate the atmosphere, making it both sophisticated and welcoming.

Typically, during this time, you’ll be having your professional photographs taken, so the music is primarily for your guests to enjoy. While I always hope that you’ll be able to hear me perform too, there’s likely to be plenty of movement as everyone mixes and mingles. That’s where I come in – creating a captivating soundtrack for your guests as they enjoy this part of your day.

Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of classical pieces for a refined ambience or prefer to kick off the celebration with some of your favourite modern pop arrangements, I can offer the perfect balance of background music and entertainment for this special time.

Curating the Perfect Playlist

I’m always happy to work with couples to create a bespoke playlist that reflects your style and the mood you want to create. My recommendation is to choose a mix of genres – perhaps a combination of modern pop, classic hits, jazz, and timeless love songs. This variety will ensure a seamless flow and keep the atmosphere vibrant yet relaxed.

How Much Music Do I Need to Choose?

On average, I’ll need approximately 8 pieces of music for every half hour of performance. This allows me to tailor the music perfectly to the duration of your drinks reception, ensuring that every moment is perfectly accompanied.

Example Playlist for Your Drinks Reception

Here’s an example of a possible setlist that showcases a blend of different styles, from modern pop to classic favourites:

Set 1:

• Marry You – Bruno Mars

• Perfect – Ed Sheeran

• Sunflower – Post Malone

• Mamma Mia – ABBA

• We Found Love – Calvin Harris

• How Long Will I Love You – Ellie Goulding

• Paradise – Coldplay

• A Million Dreams – from The Greatest Showman

• Love Me Like You Do – Ellie Goulding

• A Thousand Years – Christina Perri

• Stand By Me – Ben E. King

• Unchained Melody – Righteous Brothers

• Billie Jean – Michael Jackson

• What A Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong

• Viva La Vida – Coldplay

• Shut Up And Dance – Walk The Moon

Set 2:

• Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen

• If I Can’t Have You – Shawn Mendes

• A Sky Full of Stars – Coldplay

• Living on a Prayer – Bon Jovi

• Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley

• Yellow – Coldplay

• L-O-V-E – Nat King Cole

• It’s All About You – McFly

• Somewhere Over The Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

• Rather Be – Clean Bandit

• Wildest Dreams – Taylor Swift

• Adore You – Harry Styles

• If I Ain’t Got You – Alicia Keys

• Old Town Road – Lil Nas X

• Smells Like Teen Spirit – Nirvana

• Uptown Funk – Bruno Mars

• At Last – Etta James

Do I Need to Take a Break?

Yes, I will take a short break or breaks during the drinks reception, depending on the length of the event. I typically perform for about 45 to 50 minutes before taking a brief pause, but I will coordinate with you to tailor this to your schedule. I want to ensure that the music flows seamlessly with everything else happening on your big day.

Special Requests

If there’s a song you love that isn’t listed here, let me know! I can check if an arrangement is already available, or we can discuss creating a bespoke arrangement for £60 per piece. I’m always happy to help bring your musical vision to life.

When Do I Need to Make My Decision By?

While there’s no rush in making your final decisions, I recommend letting me know your choices as soon as you’re ready to ensure I have ample time to prepare any bespoke arrangements. Ideally, I ask for at least a month’s notice to practice and rehearse the pieces in the context of your full setlist. But don’t worry – I will stay in touch with you and give plenty of reminders to make sure everything is in place.

Enjoy the Process

There’s so much wonderful music to choose from, so take your time and have fun with it! If you need any guidance or want to brainstorm ideas, I’m here to help. I’m excited to hear your thoughts and to work together to create the perfect atmosphere for your drinks reception.

Best wishes,

Laura Seymour Violin