Music
Ceremony music
As you shop for musicians or a DJ, consider the music you would like to have played while you exchange your vows.
Check with the ceremony site
Some churches or other places of worship have restrictions on the kind of music or musical instruments they allow. Better to check now than have to scramble to make changes at the last minute.
Live music or recordings
As you did with your reception music, choose whether you would like a live ensemble at your ceremony, or if you will go with recorded music. Make sure your ceremony site has a good sound system, especially if you choose recorded songs.
Consider the local talent
If you are marrying in a church or temple you can often keep your search simple by hiring the resident organist or musicians. At a church you may even be able to have the choir perform at your wedding.
Choose your songs carefully
You will want something momentous as you walk down the aisle and something a little more triumphant for the recessional. You can listen to some options by purchasing one of the many CDs of wedding music available or downloading songs online.
Talk to your band or DJ
If you have already selected reception music, ask your band if they have musical friends they can recommend for the ceremony.
Double duty
Many couples ask that the ensemble they hired to perform at the ceremony also provide cocktail-hour music. Consider this option if it works with your particular musical style.
Inspect acoustics
If you are getting married in a space that isn't necessarily designed for performances, like an historic mansion or a loft, you might need to use amplifiers. And if you are marrying outdoors, don't discount the distraction of ambient noise: birds chirping, airplanes buzzing and even distant traffic noise can muffle the music.
