Let's hear some music
By Ronda Addy

The to-do list for your wedding is slowly shrinking. You've bought your dress, you've booked the florist and the caterer, and you've selected the invitations. You still need to decide what music to use during the ceremony and at the reception. Here are some suggestions to help you with this task.

The location of your wedding ceremony may affect the type of music you can have. If you are not having your ceremony in a religious setting, you can probably have whatever type of music you want, as long as it is tasteful. If you are having your ceremony in a religious setting, you may encounter some restrictions regarding the type of music you can have. Secular music may be allowed before the ceremony while the guests are being seated but not during it. It is a good idea to check with the church for guidelines regarding the type of music you can and cannot use.

The length of your wedding ceremony will determine the number of music selections you need. On average, you will need one to four. There is a good chance the church may not allow recorded music, so you may need to hire an instrumentalist or a vocalist. If you decide to go with an instrumentalist, check with the church to see if you are restricted to using their organist or pianist or can bring in someone from the outside. If you decide to go with a vocalist, keep in mind that there may be restrictions as to when they can sing. Again, you will need to check with the church for guidelines regarding recorded and live music.

When choosing songs, you should look for ones that mean something to you. Ask your instrumentalist or vocalist for suggestions and page through their sheet music. If you find some songs you like, have them play or sing the selections. If they don't have anything that works for you, go to a store that sells sheet music and browse through their selections. If you positively can't find anything, you may want to hire a songwriter/ composer to create something just for you (just make sure you give them plenty of time).

Once you have your ceremony music under control, you can concentrate on your reception music. You will probably have a diverse group at your reception, so you want music that will appeal to everyone and guarantee they have fun. There are two major choices for musical entertainment: a DJ or a band. Which one should you choose?

In order to make your choice, talk with various DJs and bands. Find out about their music choices, schedules and fees. DJs are generally less expensive than bands. See if you can drop by a wedding they are working at. That way, you can see them in action and find out how the crowd reacts to them. Ask for references and follow up on them.

The location and length of your wedding reception may affect your choice. The area may not be large enough for a band and a dance floor. There may also be some restrictions on the type of music allowed. The average reception lasts about four hours. Can you imagine having to play an instrument longer than that? Having a DJ would be the wiser choice if you are planning a long reception.

You want a DJ or band that is flexible and willing to work with you on your music selections. You want a performer that can keep the fun going and the audience motivated. You want a performer that can adapt to changes in the crowd's mood and keep the reception classy and memorable.

When booking musical entertainment for your wedding ceremony and reception, you should do it early. It is not unusual for musicians to be booked a year in advance. The really good ones could be booked farther ahead than that. Happy hunting!