How to pick the music for your wedding day

Choosing a band or the music for your wedding day can be a difficult task. You may want a DJ while your other half opts for a band or you may be marrying into a different culture where your required to have some traditional music from that country. Then there’s the first dance. Many couples will opt for a song that means something to them but what happens if you have too many to pick for?
We give you a list of hints and tips to help you solves all your musical problems for your special day.

Tip one: Cultural music
If you plan on getting married in a religious ceremony remember to check with the church officials before selecting your music. There may be limitations on the music and instrumentation that is allowed to be used. From there you should choose and consult your wedding musicians right away to find out what they may or may not be able to perform. It is key to do this as quickly as possible since some of the most popular wedding musicians may be booked up to a year in advance. They can also supply you with a great amount of information as to what will sound the best in the location the ceremony is taking place and what music will suit different parts of the ceremony.
If you want to add a British theme to the day then it may also be worth asking if the band has access to a CD player, where they can play your favourite songs and some bands may have also rehearsed these too meaning you can have the music you want live.

Tip two. The first dance
If you can’t decide on a song then its wise to have a listen to a romantic radio station such as Magic or Heart that plays a list of popular and timeless romantic songs. If you want to keep it personal then Think of a song you used to listen to together early in your relationship, or a song that was playing when you first met. It’s also wise to pick a song with significant lyrical meaning. A lot of songs have thinly veiled sexual innuendos or ironic love themes rather than romantic ones. Take a bit of time to analyse the lyrics and make sure they speak to your relationship.

Tip three: Band or DJ?
Think about the theme of your wedding here. Do you want sophistication or is the day about letting your hair down and having a good time with your friends? If it’s the latter then you may want to opt for a DJ who will not only be able to play that first song but will also have a contemporary and up to date play list to hand. If you’re looking for sophistication then a band may be better. However, you’ll probably only get the usual standard wedding songs such as Twist and Shout here. If you can’t decide then it may be an idea to split the evening. Select a band for the dinner and then have a DJ for the evening.

Tip four: Ceremony music
You’ll need a few pieces of music here. Firstly you’ll need a prelude, which is the welcoming music that guests will hear as they are being seated. The prelude begins a good 15 to 20 minutes before the ceremony and is often a medley of many songs.
For the wedding party’s Processional pick a steady, flowing piece to introduce the bridesmaids and other members of the wedding party. This announces the official beginning of the ceremony, so it should feel that way. Think of the first song of the service they play at church that prompts everyone to stand.
Choose the Bride’s Processional. This is the classic “Here Comes the Bride” moment. You don’t have to choose this song specifically, but choose one that will make her entrance memorable and breathtaking.

Tip Five: Music sites
If your still worried about choosing music we’ve also put together a list of sites that may help you on your way.
www.Music-Scores.com
www.MusicNotes.com
www.discjockeys.com