- Decide on the best type of music to have. Most couples decide on a traditional style Wedding band or D.J. playing music from the 60s up to the present day. This should get everyone from grannies to kids up dancing.
- Source Bands by searching our Bands page.
- Try and get the best band that you can afford. As ever, you get what you pay for! Although the atmosphere from a live band is great, a DJ is better than a bad band.
- Go and listen to a band before you book them. If possible see them play at a Wedding rather than just in a pub as the kind of music they play will be different. If you can't see the band perform, ask them to send you a CD.
- If you are having a D.J. after a band, get him to set up before the band finishes so that he can start his music and lights as soon as the band finish their set. That way, no atmosphere is lost while the band take down their gear and the D.J. assembles his. Use our D.J.s page to look for a Wedding D.J.
- Arrange for some of the guests to be in charge of starting the dancing. Family or bridesmaids are usually best for this. Often the difference between an empty dancefloor and the whole room hopping is a few brave guests getting their friends up to dance.
- Ensure that the band or D.J. you book is reliable and experienced. This is your Wedding day with no room for problems. The band should be able to play for at least 3 hours.
- The band or D.J. should be familiar with the room that the reception is in, as they may need extra gear for big or oddly shaped rooms.
- Avoid bands or D.J.s that don't give a polished performance. Awkward silences or performers that are too way out embarrass guests.
- If you want a special song for your First Dance or have any song requests, give the band plenty of notice so they can learn it or so that a D.J. can source it.
Music is essential to create the right mood and atmosphere for your special Wedding Day. It deserves the same careful thought and planning as you would give to other elements of your Glasgow Wedding.
Drinks Reception
Live music to welcome guests when they arrive at the Wedding reception is a great idea. The type of music you choose to have at this point will depend on the theme and location of your Wedding. If you are having a summer Wedding or you are having the drinks reception outside or in a marquee then a jazz band would be ideal to get your guests in that party mood.
A more traditional option would be classical music played by a string quartet
or pianist. Other classical instruments that can create a more refined ambience are harp and violin, and classical guitar.
Whatever instruments you choose, ensure that your musicians are given pride of place where they can be heard and appreciated, not stuck in a corner where conversation drowns them out. Music on its own compliments and sparks conversation.
During the Meal
Live music during a meal is a nice touch and a pianist playing the background adds such an atmosphere to the room and the sharing of the meal.
The ceremony is over, you remembered where to walk, when to smile, what to say, the sun shone for the photographs, you didn't spill any wine on your dress and the speeches are finally over without too much embarrassment! It's time to let your hair down and PARTY!
Strangely, people often don't give the music at their reception the thought it deserves. Too many couples are disappointed with unprofessional bands singing out of tune or DJs who don't have enough sound gear or any ABBA CDs!
The music at your reception is what most guests will remember and talk about for years to come. You want to leave the guests with a good lasting impression.
Top ten tips for great music at your Reception:
