You've had a flawless wedding ceremony, and you want the magical mood to carry over into the reception. The musical entertainment you hire should end your celebration on just the right note. You can take your pick when it comes to planning wedding reception music: string quartets, classical guitarists, gospel choirs, opera singers, DJs, cover bands, original bands, country fiddlers and much, much more.
Put Together Your Playlist
Planning wedding music in advance is important. If you hate rock music, you should bring it up right away with your DJ or your band, not to mention your partner. Most DJs and bands will have experience working events and should want to accommodate your tastes.
Also, think about any moments where you might want specific songs played. For instance, do you want a special song for when you or your partner throw the bouquet or when the two of you enjoy your first dance? Are there any songs that shouldn't be played under any circumstances?
Karaoke
Karaoke is another popular choice for wedding receptions. If you go with karaoke, a DJ will arrive with a book of popular music. Your guests will be allowed to flip through the book and choose the songs to sing. Keep in mind that your guests, if they are karaoke-lovers, will quickly take charge of the book and could sing anything and everything.
On the other end of the spectrum, if your guests are more subdued, karaoke stylings might go over with a dull thud. Ask a friend who doesn't mind the spotlight to start karaoke, and more people will step up to the mike.
Setting the Stage
Find out when planning the wedding if the DJ, band or other acts need any special arrangements. Do they need any equipment? Amplifiers? Microphones? A stage of a certain size? Many of them bring their own gear, but always make sure. Do they require any food or beverages during the event? Will the booked acts need a sound check or time to get ready?
The best way to go about choosing reception music is to ask your friends, your family and your wedding planner, if you have one, for advice. They will not only have ideas about what to include in your wedding, but they also might have contacts in the area and may find you a good deal.
Also, if you have already booked the location for your wedding, ask them for tips about DJs and bands. Oftentimes, they will know what acts have been used in the past and if they are reputable.
Considering the Budget
Think about how important the wedding reception music is to the overall event. Also, think about whether you want to pay by the hour or if you want to set down a price for a full evening of music. The more people or acts involved, the more expensive it will be.
Make sure to meet with and listen to the band or DJ you want for your wedding. Once you've made your choice, create, read and sign a mutually agreed-upon contract. Remember to book your acts as early as possible. Wedding reception DJs, bands that specialize in weddings and other acts are usually booked well in advance. If you wait until the last minute, you may have trouble finding anyone at any price.
If you are strapped for cash, you might think about asking friends and family members to provide the music for your reception. One of the people in your life could DJ the event. Also, if you belong to a church or have friends in a band, they may be able to perform at your wedding and reception. Many church choirs or organists are willing to play during the ceremony and its reception.
The Venue
Think about the wedding reception site as you consider bands and DJs. Some spaces may not want especially loud music or have room or a stage for a band or DJ's equipment. Make sure it is okay to play certain songs. Also, make sure that the venue has appropriate power outlets and supplies for any electronic equipment your booked acts might need and bring. You don't want an act to fry your venue's wiring.If you are having a backyard wedding or a wedding outside on the beach, think about how you will provide power to the musical acts. Extension cords can be your best friend in this situation.
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