Choosing the Perfect Wedding Day Music
A major sign of a successfully fun wedding is a packed dance floor. That being said, it’s super important to aim for top tier music choices no matter if you decide on a DJ or live band. Either option can create memories of an unforgettable wedding celebration.
Your music selection may seem miniscule but it’s an important task not to be forgotten. Selecting your very special songs for a curated playlist can set the tone for a truly memorable day. Similar to place settings and floral arrangements, your music choice adds to the overall venue atmosphere. With so many artists and options, it can be difficult to know where to start. We share some of our planning tips on how to pick the perfect songs and just the right talent for your big day.
Are You with the Band?
One of the first decisions to make is weather you want to choose a band or a DJ. Your budget may be the deciding factor as a DJ generally skews more cost efficient. Still, this option is nothing to snub as this does allow for total flexibility. These audio professionals typically have access to almost any song on your wish list from the oldies to today’s top hits. Not to mention, there are so many ways in which you can incorporate live music at the same time.
A band can play during your ceremony or cocktail hour alone and switch over to a DJ as the meal is being served for the rest of the evening. It’s even possible to have a single musician playing along with a playlist, venturing out on the dance vibing with you and your guests. There are so many innovative options to choose from with a guaranteed winning combination that works for you.
It Never Hurts to Ask
When searching for your band or DJ you want to do your research. It’s a good idea to start by asking your wedding planner, the venue manager and friends or family for referrals. You can always cast a general search online or look through magazines and ads however, it makes all the difference when speaking to someone who experienced a performance first hand.
If you are a fan of a particular bar or club, you can always ask management for a contact or for similar artists they worked with successfully in the past. Word of mouth is still one of the best methods of finding five-star experiences, especially when it comes to talent.
Audition Time
Before booking and signing, it’s essential to hear artists play. This is especially important if you are planning to use a live band. Attend one of their shows, watch their recorded events and anything available to you. For DJs, you may be able to listen to some for their playlists and speak to their past clients to get a sense of their skill. You also want to talk to your potential MC for the evening and decide if you like their style.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions up front such as, “How often do you take breaks? Do you have a playlist set for when you are away from the stage? Do you have a backup plan or equipment if something goes wrong on site?” This will give you peace of mind when booking and total trust in their capabilities.
It’s All About Your Favorites
After deciding on who will play, it’s time for you to create the playlist. This is one thousand percent your decision alone. Pick all of your favorites, what you love listening to and what you want to dance to all night. Sometimes this seems like a daunting task with so many songs available to you.
Start a list, hang it on your fridge, leave it on the kitchen counter or even in a notes page on your phone. Start months before the wedding date to relieve any pressure or time crunch. Every time you and your partner hear a song you both like write it down and before you know it you have a curated playlist that us uniquely yours.
If you do feel strongly about any of the typical wedding songs (i.e The Electric Slide) it’s common to create a list of songs not to play as a precaution. It’s always best to be very clear when communicating your preferences with your band or DJ. It can make their job easier in knowing exactly what to play. It’s an all-around win win.
Keep in mind specific songs for when you walk down the aisle, enter your reception and your first dance. These moments are historically special for everyone. Your first time on the dance floor as a married couple warrants additional musical attention. At the same time, every song does not have to pull on your heart strings. Don’t feel pressure to find the most meaningful song for every wedding moment. Choose songs that you simply love and that make you both feel great from the inside out. Whichever song you pick for these wedding highlights will stay with you for a lifetime.
Coming up with your wedding music doesn’t have to be stressful. Start your favorites list early and add a song or two each day. Music is a reception high point and planning the perfect selection should only bring excited anticipation of dancing the night away with your forever love.
