Wedding Music Planning for Engaged Couples

From the prelude, to the wedding processional, to the reception music, down to the last dance, music is an important aspect of your special day that should be planned and dealt with carefully. However, wedding music planning can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know where to start. To help you out, here are a few tips.

At best, start booking your wedding band six months in advance, especially if you’re getting married in the busiest of wedding seasons. If you take your time, the musicians you’re hoping to perform at your wedding might already booked by another couple. Be sure to have enough time to hire the musicians you want.

Assuming you've already booked a venue (as this is one of the things that comes in the early stages of wedding planning), talk to your venue manager about sound and music restrictions as well as power outlet availability for possible music equipment. 

If you’re planning to get married on a hilly area, think twice about having live piano music as big instruments can be difficult to transport. Look for a classical solo artist instead, with lighter instruments such as a flute or violin. If you’re tying the knot in a hotel, DJs and function bands are great options. 

If you’re caught in a rut, ask your close friends or relatives who have experience in wedding music planning. They may give you guidance or actually plan the music out with you. Church officiants can also give you suggestions on ceremony music, as some churches only allow specific songs to be played. If you don’t know anyone else who can offer suggestions, you can go directly to the wedding musician of your choice.

When talking to potential musicians, discuss your wedding song selection. Give them a list of songs you want and don’t want to include. That way, they can let you know what their instruments can and cannot do, and if they can play your suggested songs.

If you don’t have a list yet, you can ask the band or musicians for their repertoire. Watch their demo tape to see if their performance suits your special day. If you want them to learn a specific song for you, mention this early on. Some bands require additional payment and longer time for learning new pieces.

You've covered the prelude, processional, bridal march, the recessional, the reception, the first dance, and the last dance, but you might have not given attention to other dramatic parts of the wedding. For instance, you can have music played before the ceremony when guests come in, or during the lighting of the candle. During the kiss, the band may also play a lively song until the whole bridal party exits.

Booking your band through a music agency such as Music for Scotland makes wedding music planning much more easier. 

With only a few clicks, you can get the perfect wedding band for your big day. Need help in deciding your wedding music repertoire? Need more wedding music ideas? Call us!