starting off in the right key

What are your musical options? When you start thinking about it, there’s loads of wedding music to decide on, all of which adds to the unique atmosphere of your day

Ceremony Soundtracks

When it comes to the processional (ie your entrance music) don’t be scared to go for something unconventional. Wagner’s Bridal March (Here Comes The Bride) is still the most popular choice for church weddings, but the most important consideration is how the piece of music makes you feel. The best thing you can do is choose something that makes you relax and feel all happy inside, even if that happens to be the Muppets theme tune. For a religious wedding you can include both religious and secular (ie non-religious) music, although you are well-advised to clear any unusual choices with the celebrant as you should have something that’s suitably dignified. With a civil or Humanist wedding you mustn’t have anything that mentions god or religious themes – if in doubt check with the celebrant as some are stricter than others.

• Organ music – There’s just something about hearing an organ in church. You might simply buy organ music on CD and have it played on a good sound system. Remember that if you’re playing recorded music you’ll need to time it to ensure it doesn’t stop before you reach the groom!
• Bagpipes – Many people love the idea of having a piper around to herald the bride’s arrival. The pipes can be just as stirring as an organ, and are great for a real Scottish feel. If you’re having guests from overseas, a piper is always a great hit. The pipes are also a great way of taking some of the attention away from shy and retiring brides.
• Singers – Whether it’s a full choir or a soloist, the human voice can sound very special. If you know someone with a great voice, why not get them involved? Is there a local school that may be able to help? Choirs can also help guests get through any unfamiliar hymns. Alternatively, music agencies can find you all sorts of singers, from gospel choirs to barber shop quartets and everything in between. How about an opera singer performing a popular number?
• Ensembles – There is so many possible groupings: flute and harp, string quartet, pianist and Spanish guitar... Just decide on the mood you’d like to create and then choose the combination that best helps you accomplish that. Many groups are very flexible, so they can easily adapt from playing in a classical and stately style for your arrival, to a more laidback jazzy set for the drinks reception.

Evening Songs

There are lots of great wedding bands, DJs and musicians in Scotland, yet many couples find it quite difficult to book one, possibly because they hadn’t realised how fast the best acts get booked. Even if you’re not struggling to find musicians, it can be worthwhile talking your options over with an agency. It helps to tap in to their vast experience and if you’re looking for an unusual act they are definitely your best bet.

Ceilidhs

• Extremely sociable, everybody can take part, whether they know what they’re doing or not
• Gets the heart pumping – it’s definitely lively
• Inherently linked with weddings, some would say it’s not a wedding without one
• A great way to introduce overseas guests to Scottish culture
• Many ceilidh bands offer a disco service too
• You can have a caller on hand to explain the steps before each dance

Live bands

• A rock or pop band is a great choice if you would prefer something more modern
• It really adds to the atmosphere when you have a band who can play popular songs live
• A good live band will offer a wide variety of songs on their playlist, so that they appeal to all tastes and ages
• Before you commit, ensure that their repertoire fits with your tastes
• They may be willing to learn your first dance song, though it can be off-putting if it sounds wildly different from the original that you’ve practised to
• All bands have their ‘sounds’, so don’t expect them to switch from jazz to rock
• There are so many different kinds of bands around, from jazz and funk to rock and reggae, that you’ll find something you love if you look hard enough
• Can be noisy – go and see the band before booking to check that your guests won’t be drowned out. Also, ask your venue about any noise restrictions
• If you see a band you like, book them ASAP before someone else does

DJs

• A great way to offer a variety of tunes throughout the evening
• An option that’s perfect if you have limited space or budget, as generally only one person is involved
• Many couples have a snooty attitude towards classic disco tracks by the likes of ABBA and Queen, but there are guaranteed floorfillers – play them and people dance!
• Don’t dismiss DJs before you know what’s available – towards the top end of the market there is a lot more to discos than a few lights and a smoke machine. Some offer lighting systems allowing you to choose the colour scheme, direction and even the speed!
• Great DJs are experts at reading the audience, so that the set is adjusted to fit the mood of the crowd