Mixing music at a wedding reception

You've got the gig and wonder now, "Do I need to start to learn how to beat mix music?". The answer to that is no. There is a huge difference between DJing a club and DJing a wedding. When you are in a club it is obvious that knowing how to beat mix will make or break you as a DJ. It is key that there is not a lull in the music or the dance floor will clear. You may even get some folks in the crowd throwing some jeers your way.
But have no fear. You are not DJing a club. You are DJing a reception. And while you may beat mix a few songs here and there, for the most part you will be playing some songs, making some announcements, doing some ceremonial functions.
So what kind of mixing are you going to do. Well it is more important to play a wide variety of music. Remember you are most likely crossing generations while DJing a wedding reception. The entire guest list isn't going to like dance music. You must be prepared to play songs from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90, 00s, country, Top 40, Rap, dance, pretty much anything and everything.
So are you going to play songs from all of these decades, well no. You have to pay attention to the crowd. Get a feel for the people from the party and the energy of the room. But don't freak out it isn't hard. People are there to have a good time.
Finally, don't forget to ask the bride and groom what kind of music they want to hear and some music they don't want to hear. However, if they say they don't want the chicken dance or the YMCA, remind them that these are very popular and fun songs. While they may think they are totally cheesy, and they are, if a guest requests it, it is likely that there is a good number of people that are waiting to hear it. But in the end it is the bride and grooms call. They are two most important people at this party and they are the ones that will or won't be recommending you to their friends.