"Wedding Music Planning Tips And Ideas"

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Music options are limitless whether you choose classical musicians or a more lively jazz or swing band. You can choose from a string quartet to a more traditional guitar & mandolin or accordionist.

Deciding what type of music that you will be playing at your wedding will have a great impact on the outcome of your event. Whether you decide to hire a DJ, musician or have pre-recorded music, is one of the most important decisions you will make.

Check out our great ideas for your ceremony and reception music.


Ceremony

Cocktail Hour/Dinner

First Dance

Father/Daughter Dance

Mother/Son Dance

Party Dance

Cake Cutting

Last Dance


Ceremony music tends to be ballads or classical wedding music. There should be about five songs played while the guests are being seated.

Two songs are played during the processional, one for the bridesmaids and one while the bride walks down the isle. Play a joyous song while the bride and groom are leaving down the isle after the ceremony.

Some churches have rules about what type of music that is played during the ceremony, always ask before you make your choices. You should also be aware of their policies about pre-recorded music, some churches may not allowed it at all.

During a typical four hour reception, about 50 to 60 songs selections will be played.

To cut costs on music during cocktail hour or dinner, forgo live music. Nobody's going to notice and you will save money.

Play light background music for the reception line, cocktail hour, and dinner.

Play a slow tempo ballad for your first dance. It's easy to dance to and sets a romantic mood.

Choose a song that is no longer than two to three minutes for the first dance. Songs longer than that might get boring for your guests.

If you want alot of specific songs, go with a DJ. Not all bands can play everything on your request list.

Make sure the volume of your music is not being played to loud. It might offend some of your guests. Discuss the volume with your DJ.

Look for a DJ, band, or muscian that will dress properly for your event.

Select songs from different eras for guests of all ages to ensure that everyone dances and has fun.

Pick a variety of music to accommodate different taste in music.

Bands and DJ's are typically hired for four hours. If price is an issue choose a DJ over a band. Bands are generally more expensive.

Get everything in writing! Agree on a price and what it will cost for overtime. Include the number of breaks and length, amount of hours the band or musicians will play and the size of the band. Get a written confirmation, contact name, number, payment terms, receipt, and cancellation procedure and charges.

Make sure you give the DJ, band, or musicians directions to the church or reception location.

If your choosing to go with a band or musicians listen to them first before you book them. Always get a contract that includes the singer and how my instruments will be played.

Take advice from the DJ, band, or musicians. They have experience and have good ideas on what type of music will work.

Once you choose the style of music you want for your wedding, start looking for a band. Most bands book 6 to 18 months in advance. This will insure you the band of your choice.

Use recorded music CD's for your ceremony and reception. It's inexpensive, customizable and practial.

Make sure you have someone responsible playing the recorded music CD's. Check the timing of the music and have enough speakers for a large group or area. Make a brief line up. Label your CD's accordingly (ceremony, first dance, dance, father/daughter, mother/son and last dance).

Avoid music that is sad, about ex-wives, breakups or offensive.

Pick songs that will make people get up and want to dance all night.

Contact a cultural group for information on local talent in your area for the type of music you are interested in.

Contact a community college music department for musicians who will perform using instruments. Be sure to attend a concert or recital before you hire them. Determine the best music style for your wedding, based on your overall theme, not all music fits all events. Is your theme contemporary, religious, romantic or overall just fun.

Entertain your guest at your reception with a karaoke machine. Your guests will enjoy it. Choose fun songs for your guests to get the party started.