Choose Music with High Emotional Appeal
When selecting your ceremony music, look for places to highlight the traditional rituals for emotional impact. For example, a favorite hymn or folk song about an everlasting flame could accompany the lighting of the unity candle. If you are planning an outdoor or nature-themed ceremony, consider single instrument music, such as the lilting tones of Native American flute music by Carlos Nakai. A single flute, violin or cello will add to the drama and natural emotion of an outdoor ceremony. Even the wedding march can be found recorded in a manner that fits your theme and style. Played on the guitar for a western wedding or the marimba for a Latin ceremony, use music to expand your theme and include everyone in the emotion of such big day.Dressing Room Music
One place many brides overlook when planning their music is the dressing area for herself and her attendants. If you will be using a common area where all of you will prepare for the wedding and attendants will be helping you with your dress and veil, choose your music carefully. With the popularity of iPods and MP3 players, you can choose any style of music you desire. But keep your possible nerves in mind. Hip hop may be your favorite genre, but a jittery bride doesn't need any more emotional stimulation. Look to songs you find calming and relaxing. There are no theme requirements or traditional song selections to follow. Instrumental music, classical music or country western love songs are perfect if they calm your spirit and help you focus.Reception Music
Too often, brides and grooms think the reception music must follow some set of rules enforced by wedding planners or tradition. While it is true many couples choose to follow their wedding theme when planning their reception, the music is another story. If you are having a formal wedding based on a high tea theme, then your reception will naturally follow that line. An elegant quartet, recorded or live, is perfect for the beginning of the reception and for providing a backdrop while guests are eating. But if your heart is set on having a thriving dance floor, don't overlook those feelings. Change the reception music after everyone has finished nibbling finger sandwiches and let the party begin. Keep the shift from becoming overwhelming by playing big band music for dancing outside on the deck and offer guests inside seating for chatting. Bands such as The Kansas City Strings, based in Lenexa, offers a broad selection of music styles including show tunes, jazz and pop music. They even offer the option of arranging your favorite song if you can provide the piano score. The reception is a party and your music needs to reflect that fact. All your decorations, food choices and locations will never be as powerful as the music you play. Celebrate your Latin heritage with sambas and tangos if that is how a party starts for you.Choosing the music for your wedding and reception is one of the most personal selections you will make. The songs and instruments you pick to express your emotions will convey more about you two as a couple than hours of conversation. Let your music choices communicate what could never be said with words. Play the songs and arrangements which speak to your hearts and all your guests will surely hear you.