No music during cocktail hour?

I am not going to do music during cocktail hour. It doesnt seem important and I don't want to pay for it. People are talking and not even paying attention! Thus no need for music. I could have it if I wanted since ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception are all in same place but it doesnt seem worth it.

Yikes - to me music is really important, and i can't imagine not having music during the cocktail hour.... especially as the 'lead up' to the full reception... we had live musicians during the cocktail hour and then transitioned to a dj for the reception.

i guess it is personal preference - but now that i think about it, i have never been to a cocktail hour without music...?

Like, ZERO music? Not even background Muzak from the venue speakers? Elevator music? Something?

I agree with maybe hooking up an iPod to some speakers just for the background. You have to think, the guests will be bored during that time since you will be off taking pictures at least leave them some tunes. That's just my opinion though I agree it's a good place to cut some money out of the budget. It's all a matter of personal opinion.

I'd kind of want SOME type of music .. even just some cds or something

Definitely need SOME kind of music. Anything would be better than nothing at all.

Music played low during the cocktail hour adds to a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.

We are having the DJ set up an one hour CD with light dinner music in the background. I want our guest to relax & mingle during that one hour.

Yeah it is merely to cut out cost $225 to be exact.. but I just don't remember ever being at a wedding where I heard music at cocktail hour. not that there wasn't any but I just don't remember it.

Your cocktail hour sets the mood for what's to come. I think you would be doing yourself a major disservice if you don't provide at least some sort of entertainment.

I also think it would be kind of odd that the DJ wouldn't be doing anything for this hour. If the DJ is setting up while your guests are in the room, then you're settig yourself up for a lawsuit if someone trips while he's running the cabling. Not to mention, when it's time for sound check... it's really going to annoy your guests.

I think you can get away with some subtle music playing through an iPod, as long as that's a viable option. Nobody is dancing, everyone is schmoozing and nibbling.

Chances are, if the cocktail hour music was played, it was played faintly/softly in the background. Typically we increase intensity as we get closer to the Grand Entrance to build up the anticipation. If it's done right, subtly, no one will notice. That's a good sign of a well-played cocktail hour.

Our DJ is just setting up an extra speaker to play some jazz during cocktail hour and not charging us for the whole hour. Maybe just talk with them and see what you can work out. Coming to an affordable agreement is just good business.

I don't think it's a big deal, people will be chatting. Could you set up an iPod ?

I'd not be worried about the lack of music so much as the lack of an emcee. It generally takes a strong voice (and a microphone) to get everyone's attention after the excitement of the first kiss. Who will direct your guests to leave the ceremony area and make their way towards cocktail hour? Who will announce that cocktail hour is over and that it's time to head to the reception area? Even if your ceremony/cocktail hour/ reception are held at the same address, people unfamiliar will still need a little push.

Case in point, I attended a wedding once that didn't have DJ services during cocktail hour. There was a beautiful hors d'oeuvres spread in an area meant to be consumed during cocktail hour, but because no one announced it, the guests didn't notice and headed straight to the reception tent. Unfortunately, that food was completely wasted. Just my experience!

I would just bring a cd/ipod player and make your own playlist...I think no music would be a bit weird.

I second what the other ladies are saying. Plug something in, but I wouldn't spend the extra for the DJ. To me, it wouldn't be worth it, but that's just me. I'm not a huge fan of DJs in general, anyways.