Wedding music can be split into two distinct parts. The first is the music you choose for the ceremony itself. This includes music played while guests are being seated, any special songs played or sung during the ceremony, and music playing as guests leave the ceremony location. The second part is the music which plays during the reception, including during the meal, any special dances (such as the first dance, the bride and father dance or the groom and mother dance), and when the party gets going.
For the ceremony music, think about the mood you wish to set. For a Celtic wedding set along the rocky shores of the San Juan Islands, think about romantic Irish melodies to heighten the drama and emotion. For a sophisticated, black tie downtown Seattle ceremony, a single violin or a string quartet will add to the ambiance. Consider the tone of your wedding as a whole and select music which enhances that feeling. Listen to songs you are considering, alone and with your eyes closed. How do you feel? Is this how you want your guests feeling?
For the reception, the music is an entirely different story. The drama of the vows and the solemness of your promises are over; now it's time to celebrate! Here is the place your true personality can shine through. While you may want traditional music for the couple's entrance and any special dances, play the chicken dance or the hokey pokey if that's your style. If your special song is a hard rock hit from the seventies, turn it up and hit the dance floor. You might be surprised to find Granny out there with you. Do try to keep all your guests in mind and play something for everyone, but the reception is a party, so make it match your personality. If classical music is more your style, then let the Beethoven ring out. If you and your fiancé are hardcore disco dancers, then crank up the strobe lights and let loose. Fun is infectious and everyone will soon catch your enthusiasm.
If you are going to hire a band, a DJ, or even a violinist, the standard hiring rules apply. Get at least three references for the musicians or DJ and call them. You don't need two hundred people standing around while you try to get a boom box working because the band flaked. Make sure you have heard for yourself any musician you are planning to hire. This is not the place to take your third cousin's word for it. Make sure you and any performers are crystal clear on what they are to play. Approve the play list or song selections. Get everything in writing including how long the band will play and how many breaks they require.
For music, minding the details is key. No band or musician is going to be familiar with every wedding venue. Find out what they need to make beautiful music. Is there access to electricity for amplifiers? Does the harpist need a special chair or platform? Can the soloist be seen and heard over the crashing waves? Talk with your musicians and ask them what they need.
Wedding music is the fabric which weaves your entire day together. Music will enhance and support any emotion you choose to highlight on this most important day. Spend some time figuring out what you want and your wedding day will surely soar.