Wedding Planning

photo: Heidi Lee Photography

Musicians & Entertainment

the ceremony

Start planning the music for the ceremony first by meeting with the clergy person to discuss any restrictions, the order of the ceremony and how music should be incorporated. Usually, couples choose music for the following parts of the service, but are not limited to these spots:

• prelude - music played during the seating of guests that usually lasts for ten to fifteen minutes.
• seating of the parents - this usually consists of one song and is sometimes a vocal solo with special meaning for the bride and groom.
• processional - a song, usually instrumental, played while the bridesmaids and bride proceed down the aisle.
• song for the bride and groom - this is usually a vocal song of special significance to the bride and groom, and is most often sung immediately after the vows are made.
• recessional - the music played after the ceremony while the bridal party exits.
• postlude - music played as guests are dismissed.

questions to consider before hiring ceremony musician(s)

What is the central theme of the ceremony? Formal or informal?
What feelings should the music evoke? Romance? Drama?
Do you desire vocals or instrumental music or a combination of both?
How much of a priority is music? Are you willing to book high profile musicians?
How much can be spent for ceremony music?
Do you prefer live music, or are music recordings acceptable as a background for a vocalist?
Which special songs should be included in the ceremony? Musicians can help you crystallize what you want.
Does the church or ceremony location have its own sound system or will the musicians have to provide one?
Have you shopped around? Do you know who can give you the highest quality?
Have you checked the person/group’s references to make sure they are reliable?
Have you heard them in person? It is important to verify they are what you expect and want.
Are you booking as soon as possible?

tips for a ceremony that flows

• Give the musician(s) a schedule or “script” of the ceremony, with their songs highlighted, then they will know where in the service they will be playing.
• Check out the sound system ahead of time, including the piano or organ that will be used.
• Make sure a written agreement is in place. Formally confirm all dates and times with the musicians.

the reception

questions to consider before hiring reception music & entertainment

How long should music be played? When should it start?
What is the desired mood of the reception?
Are there special songs you want played?
What type of music? Live or recorded music?
Do you want dancing music? Background music?
How much can be spent on reception music and entertainment?
Are you buying entertainment according to your schedule of events or because there is an all-inclusive package? Are you paying for hours of entertainment you do not really need?
Are you just shopping price? Remember, entertainment can make the party!
Have you met the DJ/entertainers/musicians who will actually work at your wedding? Will they have good rapport with you and your guests?
How many years of experience do they have?
Are they keeping abreast of changes in the industry? Do they belong to any associations?

tips for smooth reception entertainment

• Get everything in writing ahead of time: cost, time of set-up and tear down, and amount of performance time.
• Meet the DJ/entertainers/musicians who will actually be at the reception. Discuss ahead of time expectations and any special requests you want played or not played.
• Make sure the style of the entertainment fits with the desired style of the celebration. Consider guests preferences in music too.

top three first dance songs

Courtesy of Prime Time Mobile DJs

Father & Daugher:

I Loved Her First, Heartland
My Little Girl, Tim McGraw
My Wish, Rascal Flatts

Mother & Son:

My Wish, Rascal Flatts
I Hope You Dance, Leeann Womack
What a Wonderful World, Louis Armstrong