Congratulations on your engagement! This is a really exciting time in your life. It’s also probably going to be a bit stressful.
During this next year, I want to walk through this process with you. I’ll give you a 12 Month Guide to planning your wedding and explain things along the way. You can start from the beginning here (click). Come back to this blog each week for the next installment.
Week 39 – Reception Music
Hope the ceremony music is done because this next project may be a doozy! This week we’re going to select reception music. Finding the right mood and making arrangements for the facility and music base can be difficult. Work through this bit-by-bit.
Many wedding receptions have a dance floor that is well-used, but, this may come as a surprise, not all weddings have an open dance floor. Some just include the traditional first dance, but there are a few couples who don’t even want that.
Here are a few things to talk about and plan.
- Preferences. Figure out whether dancing is important to you or not. Either way, you’ll need some music in the background while people eat and talk.
- Traditional Dances. If you do have the traditional dances, you’ll need a song for the bride and groom’s first dance, the father-daughter dance and the mother-son dance. Make sure your parents know what to expect and that you find songs that are important to you and the occasion.
- Music Selection. Find pieces that set the mood, reflect who you are and will interest others who are attending your wedding. While this is a time to shine, not all of your guests will like rock…or country…or oldies…etc. Even just our families will have a diverse interest in music. Be sure to include a small variety that will make people feel comfortable while they celebrate this important time in your life.
DJ and Band, or MP3?
DJ and Band – When it comes to what sort of music you have, look to see if there is physical space and budget for a DJ or band. They can really set the tone and keep the schedule moving smoothly. They also have a ton of experience and can create a really unique atmosphere.
MP3 – If live musicians are not an option, look at whether the facility has a good sound system and a connection point where a friend can assist in monitoring the music transitions from an MP3 player or laptop. If you go with this last option, make sure to download the music as soon as possible so the friend can play with the system and practice before the wedding. You don’t want the wedding to hit a bad note if you had an opportunity to make it flow smoothly.
I hope this is a fun time and not too stressful. What styles will you include and what did you decide on for your first dance?
Next week we’ll look at bridal portraits!
Katelyn is a certified wedding planner. She is available for consultations.
She will even meet with you on Skype to help you work through part of your wedding planning.
Click here for more information.