Reception Transition

That sounds fine. I would assume most people have attended weddings and know what to expect.

Music is the best way to transition. Maybe have the DJ play some neutral songs at first that would still get some people in the dance floor and then turn up the heat slowly. Like Caytlyn said most people know music and dance are coming so they’ll make their way out.

We had our salad & entree, speeches, first dance, parent dance, cake cutting and then our first bus left at 9 PM (for guests that didn't want to stay the entire time). The dance floor opened after that and that's when we did the garter toss and bouquet toss.

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I was about to say practically the same thing. That's what we're doing. I doubt my parents want to hear Get Your Freak On right away. lol

I think music, a lot of classical or nuetral songs then start transitioning to party music will be a good cue.
If you're doing a bar you could do wine and beer until a certain point then announce open bar. That would be a strong hint for sure.

I agree with PP with using music as a subtle hint.

After cake cutting we had our espresso/coffee/tea bar open up. An hour after that our bar started speciality shots so those not down to party got the hint that things were turning to the “party” atmosphere

Thanks so much! I see I'm not the only one who has considered these options