Your wedding music
The right music can make a big difference to your wedding. From walking down the aisle to love songs played by a DJ or band at your reception, it should be carefully chosen. Evita Puccio looks into it.
Choosing the music is one of the highlights of planning your wedding day. Whether you want the elegance and formality of a string quartet or prefer getting down at your reception to a string of 1970s remixes, the music you choose will go a long way towards creating the atmosphere of your day.
The ceremony
There are several opportunities to feature music during the ceremony, including when you arrive, walk down the aisle, leave and sign the register.
You can go for a pre-recorded soundtrack or hire live musicians. Often the proprietors of the venue will be able to recommend a variety of singers and musicians they are familiar with.
If you are having your ceremony in a church you might be able to hire its choir to achieve a traditional dramatic atmosphere.
The prelude
This music generally lasts from the time the guests start arriving at the ceremony, until the mother of the bride is ready to make her entrance. If you want a soloist or choir, this is a good time for them to begin their performance.
The processional
This is the music that accompanies the wedding party as they walk down the aisle. There are plenty of options available for this key moment. For many brides, traditional songs such as Wagner’s Bridal Chorus or Mendelssohn’s Wedding March remain a favourite. Many couples also go with something more modern and set the mood with their favourite love song.
Church ceremony
If you are getting married in a church, check your music choices are appropriate with your officiant. If you are including elements such as communion or the lighting of the unity candle, this is a good time to have more music featured.
The recessional
So you’ve said ‘I do’ and the ring is on your finger. It’s now time to make your big exit. This is the perfect time to pick your favourite happy song to listen to as you make your way back out of the venue. Not only will it add to the celebratory mood, some upbeat music will encourage your guests to move out of the church more quickly.
Rocking your reception
DJ’s, cover bands, instrumentalists – the kind of entertainment you choose will impact on the atmosphere of your reception.
If you decide to go for a DJ or band, here a few things to consider:
· Are they willing to play/learn a list of songs that you want?
· Will the band leader (or DJ) double as the MC and if so, do they have experience in this area?
· What are their sound system and equipment needs?
· Will they take requests on the night?
Remember, a good MC will be able to control the structure of your reception and introduce key moments such as the couple’s first dance and the cutting of the cake. They will also introduce the speechmakers and any other special features.
Spinning out
DJ’s are becoming increasingly popular for receptions. They are versatile, can supply the originals of your favourite tracks and are often cheaper than hiring a full band. You can even supply them with a list of songs (this is the fun part) that you want played on the night; or a list of songs you don’t want played.
If you decide to opt for a DJ, you need to look for the same qualities you would look for in a band: balance, versatility, good presentation and personality as well as first-rate equipment.