The French-born historian and author Jacques Barzun stated: "Music is intended and designed for sentient beings that have hopes and purposes and emotions." And indeed, music on your wedding day sets the tone, permeates the atmosphere and embodies the emotions of the bride and groom.
Once your venue has been chosen, then music is one of the very next decisions. Musical groups, DJs and bands can be booked a year or more in advance, so evaluating your budget, preferences and musical style early in the planning process is paramount.
Wedding music ~ usually has three or four components:
- pre-ceremony
- processional
- solo or special music or hymn
- recessional
Music at the ceremony is generally quiet, background, instrumental style with piano, organ, keyboard, violin, flute, quartet, trio and other strings the most popular. There are many, many websites with lists and samples of wedding songs. Like contracting for everything on your wedding day, personal references, a sample tape or live demo and a contract are imperative.
Cocktail hour ~ is the time between the ceremony's conclusion and reception's beginning, often when the wedding party and families are in photo sessions. It's a mingling kind of atmosphere that promotes snacking and conversation, so the music should not be very loud or overwhelming in the space.
Reception music ~ complements the ambience of the entire event from elegant, classical, big band and traditional to country, rustic chic, beach-y, casual, punk, jazzy, rock 'n roll or a unique blend to embrace multiple generations.
The venue may dictate your musical provider with time or space constraints. Bands are live, loud, expensive and exciting. DJs provide a live person with personality, and you get to hear the songs you like by the original artists. And DJs are a little less expensive. There is a wealth of websites of wedding music, and you'll need something for:
- background at first
- the married couple's grand entrance
- first dance
- parent dances
- garter/bouquet toss
- meal or grazing time
- cake cutting
- party and dancing
- last dance
There are many details about the music, and the musicians you interview can guide you through the process. If you are searching for your beautiful wedding in Stuart, Florida, then DJ Billman Disc jockeys may be a great choice. If you are having a wedding in Palm Beach County, Florida, then you may want to reach out to Kenny Mondo Productions in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. They've done this before and know all the intricacies of making your reception a spectacular good time. For the super-duper do-it-yourselfers, there's Spotify. With a premium $9.99 per month membership, an iPod Touch and some speakers, you can develop your own playlist. Solicit a good friend who is skilled in using an iPod and can follow directions on when to play what. Practice several times in advance. Whatever you choose, enjoy the tunes and dance the night away.
