How to Win Over the Grandparents: 10-Step Guide (A DJ’s Perspective)

Weddings are all about celebrating love, family, and bringing everyone together for one incredible day. And while you’re planning the ultimate party with your friends, it’s important to remember one key group of VIPs—your grandparents. They’ve been there for you through it all, and this is a perfect opportunity to make them feel extra special.

So how do you make sure your grandparents feel honored and important on your wedding day? Whether it’s through music, special moments, or even the seating arrangement, here’s a 10-step guide (from a DJ’s perspective) to winning over your grandparents at your wedding.

1. Play Their Favorite Music

Let’s start with something easy but incredibly meaningful: include a few of their favorite songs in the reception playlist. Whether it’s something from their era, a song they danced to at their own wedding, or a track that reminds them of family, this small gesture goes a long way.

• Ask them ahead of time for song requests.

• Incorporate one or two songs into key moments, like the dinner hour or cocktail hour.

• Make sure they have a comfortable seat where they can enjoy the music if they’re not on the dance floor.

It’s a subtle way to honor them, and trust me—when they hear “their song,” it’ll be a moment they never forget.

2. A Special Dance Just for Them

One way to truly make your grandparents feel appreciated is by including them in a special dance. Whether it’s during the couple’s dance or an added moment for “all the married couples,” inviting them to the dance floor will make them feel honored.

• Do a generational dance, where you invite all married couples to the floor, and the DJ gradually asks couples to leave as the years go down—until your grandparents are the last ones standing.

• Create a specific “Grandparents’ Dance” with a song that’s meaningful to them.

This gives your grandparents a moment to shine, and it shows that they’re a key part of your wedding story.

3. Include Them in the Ceremony

Your wedding ceremony is the heart of your big day, and having your grandparents involved can make it even more personal.

Consider ways to make them part of the ceremony, like:

• Walking them down the aisle: Have them enter right before the parents of the couple.

• Giving a reading: If they’re comfortable speaking in front of a crowd, ask them to share a meaningful reading or blessing.

• Serving as witnesses: If your ceremony includes signing a marriage license or certificate, inviting your grandparents to witness it adds a special touch.

Involving them in the ceremony gives them a front-row seat to one of the most important parts of the day.

4. Feature Their Wedding Photos

Create a special moment of nostalgia by displaying wedding photos from your grandparents’ big day. Whether it’s at the entrance of the reception or incorporated into your décor, these photos will not only highlight your family history but also show your grandparents how much you value their love story.

• Set up a photo table featuring wedding photos from both sides of the family.

• Consider adding a slide show during dinner or cocktail hour that includes images from their wedding and other family moments.

They’ll feel honored seeing a part of their life celebrated alongside yours.

5. Seating in the Spotlight

Make sure your grandparents are seated in a spot where they’ll feel included and comfortable. Often, older guests can feel left out if they’re seated too far away from the action. So, give them prime seating where they can feel like VIPs without being overwhelmed by the crowd.

• Place them near the head table or in a spot where they can easily see the dance floor and main events.

• Make sure they have comfortable seating that’s accessible, especially if they need extra assistance.

This way, they can enjoy the day without feeling excluded.

6. Give a Heartfelt Toast

Whether it’s you, your partner, or someone close to them, taking a moment to publicly recognize your grandparents with a toast can be incredibly meaningful. Share a story, thank them for their love and support, or simply acknowledge their role in shaping your family.

• Mention them during your thank-you speeches.

• Have a family member share a short, heartfelt toast to honor their legacy.

This simple act will touch their hearts and make them feel truly valued.

7. Create a Comfort Zone for Them

Let’s be real—weddings can be a little overwhelming for grandparents, especially with the dancing, the noise, and all the excitement. To make sure they’re comfortable, set up a quiet, cozy space where they can take a break.

• A lounge area away from the main dance floor gives them a place to relax.

• Provide blankets or pillows if it’s an outdoor wedding and they might get chilly.

This thoughtful detail shows you’re thinking of their comfort as much as their involvement.

8. A Sweet Photo Session

Take the time to snap some special photos with your grandparents. These are the photos you’ll treasure for years to come. Let your photographer know ahead of time that you’d like to carve out a few moments for a dedicated photo session with them.

• Set up a “family legacy” photo with all generations—grandparents, parents, and the newlyweds.

• Get some fun, candid shots of them enjoying the day.

Having these photos will give you cherished memories long after the wedding is over.

9. Work with Your Vendors to Keep Them in Mind

Your DJ, photographer, and planner can all help make your grandparents feel special by ensuring they’re involved in key moments and comfortable throughout the day.

• DJs can play music that resonates with them and ensure any announcements for special moments (like toasts or dances) are loud and clear.

• Photographers can capture moments with your grandparents or check in with them for a quick photo.

• Planners can make sure the seating and schedule work for their needs, ensuring they’re not overwhelmed by the fast pace of the day.

Collaborating with your vendors on this will ensure that your grandparents feel honored and appreciated.

10. Send Them a Thoughtful Thank You

After the wedding is over, a personal thank-you note or small gift to your grandparents can show them just how much you appreciated their presence and support. This is the perfect way to end the experience on a sweet note.

• Include a favorite photo from the wedding.

• Write a personalized message thanking them for being part of your special day.

It’s a heartfelt gesture that will make them feel just as special after the big day as they did during it.

Final Thoughts: Making the Day Special for Everyone

Your wedding is a celebration of your love and the people who have supported you along the way—including your grandparents. By taking a few thoughtful steps, you can make sure they feel included, comfortable, and cherished throughout your special day. Whether it’s a sweet toast, a special song, or even just giving them prime seating, these small gestures go a long way in making your wedding unforgettable for everyone.