Wedding Ceilidhs & Reels
Scottish dancing is a wonderful way to get the two families and their friends mixing at a wedding. It gets people talking, laughing and dancing with guests they might otherwise never meet.
Whether you call it reeling or a ceilidh, I can help you make it part of your day. I’ve called at more than 100 weddings across the UK and Europe, and it’s always a joy to see everyone joining in, from seasoned reelers to complete beginners.
Nobody needs to practise beforehand. I explain and walk everyone through each dance, then keep calling once the music starts.
How does it work?
The dancing doesn’t need to last all evening. An hour to an hour and a quarter works really well: two dances, a short break for a drink, then two more. A popular choice is after the speeches, before handing over to the wedding band or DJ, but we can fit it around your plans.
I usually start with something easy to get everyone relaxed, then build up as people become more confident. We might include favourites such as Dashing White Sergeant and Eightsome Reel, finishing with a big Strip the Willow.
For weddings, I use the simpler Orcadian Strip the Willow in long lines, where everyone gets to dance the full length of their line. The newlyweds can also dance down the neighbouring lines, giving them a lovely chance to dance with all their family and friends.
Space & Set-up
You don’t need a special dance floor. I’ve even called wedding dances on grass, provided the ground is firm, level and suitable for dancing. The main thing is to leave enough clear space: allow at least one square metre per dancer when planning your layout.
Setup usually takes about 20-30 minutes, as long as I can park close by. I bring my own PA system and recorded music, and just need a table for my kit and access to a power socket.
Music, PA & DJ
I can use high-quality recorded Scottish dance music or work alongside a live band.
After the Scottish dancing, I can hand over to your wedding band or DJ. If you’d prefer, I can also stay on as your DJ for an additional charge, using my PA system and disco lighting.
You can give me your own Spotify playlist, choose particular songs you’d like included, or leave the music to me.
Tailored to Your Wedding
If you have favourite reels you’d like to include, do let me know. If you’re unsure what would work, I’m happy to suggest a programme and adapt it on the day to suit your guests.
Above all, it should be fun and easy to join in. There’s no pressure to get every step right, and beginners are very welcome.
Ready to add a ceilidh or some reels to your wedding?
Send me a few details about your date, venue and plans and I’ll let you know what would work best.