Think of most weddings you’ve ever been to… Music was blaring over the loudspeaker. While some guests were living it up on the dance floor, others may have been frustrated that they couldn’t speak to everyone at the table without talking more loudly than usual. That’s not counting how any of the guests with sensory issues felt. Headphone parties are a modern update that’s alleviating these problems and others. Discover why this theme might be right for your big day.
Headphone Parties Explained
Headphone parties, also known as silent discos, are gatherings where music is transmitted to headphones that each person has a pair of, rather than over a loudspeaker. Usually, as you plan your wedding, you’ll have multiple channels to select from and pick two or three. Guests then select which playlist they want to listen to, and if they happen to stop enjoying one, they can switch to another.
And just like any wedding with music, a silent music festival still has a dance floor. Each guest can still get out on the dance floor and tear it up, just to the playlist they prefer.
Why Choose a Silent Dance Party for When You Tie the Knot
On the outside, you may think this all sounds a little weird. Who doesn’t have a live band or a DJ when they’re celebrating after walking down the aisle? But this type of party can offer a refreshing change of pace and create an experience that your guests will remember for years to come.
Make Your Event Sensory-Friendly
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over five million adults are on the autism spectrum. That’s not counting that about one in eight children suffer from it, nor is it considering those with aspergers, anxiety, or other issues that could make loud music overwhelming.
By renting wireless headphones for each guest, the person can choose whether to listen to the music and at what level. Because you’re hosting a quiet event, everyone can enjoy it, even if they’re sensitive to loud sounds and crowds.
Let People Listen to What They Want
Recall any event you’ve been to in the past with music. How many times did it feature music you weren’t into or at least had several songs you would’ve rather not heard? You had to sit through each song, even if you weren’t enjoying it. Sometimes, especially toward the end of the night, the same song you didn’t like an hour ago would play again.
When everyone has headphones, each guest chooses what they listen to when they tune into the channel of their choice. Anytime a song comes on that the person doesn’t like, they can flip the channel to something more fun, or at least something that appeals to them.
Avoid Disturbing the Neighbors
Depending on the venue (or if you’re having it at your home), all the loud dance music that can sometimes go on long past midnight may disturb those who live nearby.
And if the area has a noise ordinance, it’s a possibility that a neighbor would contact the police and put a damper on the festivities.
When you rent headphones, issues like disturbing the neighbors or breaking a noise ordinance aren’t problems.
If you’re not keen on a silent disco for your wedding, you could use it as your backup plan, which is particularly beneficial if you’re having the reception at your home. Everyone can whip out the headphones and keep the party going if the cops should happen to show up or a neighbor asks you to turn the music down.
Give Guests the Ability to Choose Their Volume Level
Not every guest who comes to a wedding enjoys loud music; some are only there to share in your special occasion. That means they’re sitting through the event, possibly with their ears ringing and getting a headache. While they may enjoy some of the songs, they’d much rather have the music played at a lower level.
When you opt to throw a headphone party, you allow each guest to choose the volume that’s most comfortable for them, quiet or loud. Every guest will leave without tinnitus or a headache!
Promote Conversation Among the Crowd
While the audience expects music and to be able to dance, a main aspect of a wedding is to speak to people you don’t see often. In many cases, people meet new people at the wedding.
When the music is overpowering, guests can’t speak as they like. Much of the night may be filled with frustrating ‘Huh?’ and ‘What did you say?’ People at the event may find themselves struggling to hear what others are saying, or they might be yelling to get their points across.
Ultimately, an event with headphones lets everyone at the party socialize freely.
Make Your Event Stand Out
Reflect on all the weddings you’ve been to throughout the years. You probably remember bits and pieces of each, but did anything stand out about any of them? Probably not! More than likely, it was at a nice venue with music, alcohol, and a decent meal.
But when the guests are given the option to hear music through headphones, it’ll definitely create a lasting impression. Your wedding will be remembered as a one-of-a-kind event, even though, in so many ways, it’s similar to other ceremonies.
Can Open Venue Options
Traditionally, weddings are held at fire halls, banquet halls, or country clubs. These locations are used to the noise, and they clear out the schedule for the day so you and everyone you invited are the only ones in the facility at the time. You’re then not disturbing anyone.
However, some destinations, such as a museum, are more laid back. Headphones open up your possibilities so you can pick options like this.
Planning a Silent Disco Event
If you’re sold on a silent rave for your wedding, now comes the planning. Fortunately, there’s not much you have to put together for this type of event. The main focus is on finding the silent disco equipment.
Fortunately, you can rent silent disco headphones with the other necessary technology from the same company. You can even find competitive pricing because this is becoming a more popular party idea.
Though you can hire a professional DJ who knows how to get a party jumping, any person familiar with tech can run the equipment.
Another important task for you is to create the channels. You’ll want to incorporate your and your spouse’s preferences while considering what you think the rest of the crowd would enjoy, since you can choose multiple channels.
Your nuptials are a special time. You’re promising to love your partner unconditionally and making it official. Your possibilities of venues, themes, and more are endless, but making it a headphone party could be the one decision you make that makes your wedding unlike any other one you’ve ever had the honor to be invited to.
Frequently Asked Questions About Headphone Parties
If you’re interested in learning more or want to save yourself all the reading, here are answers to the frequently asked questions about silent discos.
- What are parties with headphones called?
You could call them headphone parties, but they’re often called silent disco parties.
- What is the point of silent raves?
Silent raves can be an inclusive event that lets even people who aren’t into the noise of a big party enjoy. These events promote conversation, give the audience music options, and let each person customize their experience.
- Are silent discos awkward?
Though on the outside looking in, people may think a silent disco looks bizarre, once everyone is dancing and enjoying themselves, their sentiments will change. And once you’re involved, you’ll see how everyone dancing to their own song makes this party so unique.
