photo courtesy of Asia Pimentel Photography

Alright party people, listen up! We’re about to drop a game-changing tip that’ll make your wedding day not just special but legendary. Forget the old-school methods of shuffling guests from one spot to another (also known as herding cats lol) —let’s talk about using a second line to get everyone from Point A to Point B with a whole lot of style and a sprinkle of fun.

What’s a Second Line, Anyway?

Imagine a parade where the real party happens in the “second line” of folks trailing behind a band. Originally a New Orleans tradition, it’s all about music, dancing, and celebrating together. So why not borrow this lively idea for your wedding? It’s a killer way to turn the transition between your ceremony and reception into a full-blown PARTY.

Why You’ll Love the Second Line at Your Wedding

Double the Fun: Who says transitions have to be boring? A second line turns moving between venues or spaces into an exciting mini-event. It’s like adding a surprise party in the middle of your day!
Energize Your Guests: Weddings are all about keeping the good vibes flowing, and a second line is the perfect way to do just that. It turns the transition between events into a lively, upbeat experience, ensuring everyone stays pumped and the celebration keeps going strong.
Break the Ice: Your guests will mix, mingle, and dance their way to the next location. It’s a fantastic way to get everyone interacting and having a blast.
Epic Photos: The energy and joy of a second line make for some seriously awesome photos. Think of all the colorful, candid shots of your friends and family dancing their hearts out.

How to Rock a Second Line at Your Wedding

Map the Route: Plan a straightforward route between spaces! Ensure it's simple for everyone to follow and navigate, avoiding complex areas like major intersections. Prioritize safety and make sure the streets or paths are suitable for the second line.
Get the Party Essentials: You’ll need a band or some musicians to lead the charge. Props like colorful parasols or funky handkerchiefs can add a fun touch and get everyone involved.
Give a Heads-Up: Let your guests know about the second line ahead of time. A little prep goes a long way in making sure everyone’s ready to join the fun and wearing the appropriate footwear.
Enjoy the Ride: Once the second line kicks off, just let loose and enjoy. It’s all about celebrating with your favorite people, so soak it all in.

Extra Tips for a Smooth Move

Weather Check: If you’re going outdoors, keep an eye on the weather. Have a backup plan in case Mother Nature decides to crash the party. That’s where TGT comes in :)
Stay Hydrated and Happy: Dancing up a storm can work up quite a thirst! Ensure there’s plenty of water available for you and your guests at every spot along the way. Keeping everyone refreshed means the good times can keep rolling without missing a beat.
Vendor Coordination: Keep your vendors in the loop about the second line! Your TGT onsite manager will give them a heads-up when the parade starts, so they’re prepared for the influx of guests arriving at the next location. This way, everything runs smoothly and your transition remains seamless.

So there you have it—turn your wedding transition into an epic second line celebration and watch your guests light up with joy. It’s a fun, unique way to keep the party going and make your big day even more unforgettable. Ready to get those feet moving? Let’s do this!

Justine Salata is a Logistics Lead and Onsite Manager for The Get Together Events Co. your month-of wedding and events coordination company, offering affordable services and peace of mind to New York, Nashville, Chicago and beyond.

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