Choosing The Music

date posted: June 29, 2014

Your music choices set the tone for both your ceremony and reception.

It’s a major part of your wedding planning and requires much attention. Ceremony music defines the mood and is often determined by the type of nuptial agreement (religious versus non-religious) you decide to make. Reception music and entertainment can run the gamut from a DJ to an orchestra complete with a vocalist. You want your guests to get up and dance, so make sure you provide all types of dance styles to ensure that everyone — all generations — has a grand time.

What you need to know:

• An idea of your budget.

• Whether or not your venue has or requires a sound system.

• Your music wishes for the ceremony. Do you want an instrumental and vocalist combination? A solo performer, such as a singer, harpist, pianist, or guitarist? Or would you prefer recorded music?

• Your reception preferences — live or recorded?

• If, for your reception, you prefer multi-style tunes for all ages or an out-of-the-box style, such as a certain era of music like big band, trendy, or popular.

• Whether you, as a couple, enjoy the same or different musical genres and how you will handle blending both types, if needed.

• The timeline and amount of hours needed.

• A list of songs you definitely want included.

• If you’re planning something different, such as a choreographed couple or group dance.

• A list of specific instruments favored for a band ensemble.

Questions to Ask:

Can we hear you perform?

Is there a recording or CD to listen to?

How many years have you been in business?

Can you play special requests?

Can I provide a preferred song style list? Artist list?

Do you bring your own sound system?

Do you possess liability insurance?

If needed, will you play longer than originally planned?
If so, how much is the additional cost?

Are you playing any other events on the wedding date?

Are any extras available, such as special lighting, large screen event projections, or an event emcee?

How many breaks are required, and do you have music during down-time?

For live bands: Do you have a specific style you’re most comfortable with?

For an orchestral set-up: Does the cost differ with the number of musicians?

What is your payment policy? When is the deposit due? Is there a refund/cancellation policy within a certain time period? When is the total balance due?

music /entertainment

DJ Ali Gruber
845-658-9689, djalispinsvinyl.com
I specialize in beautiful, home-grown, DIY, and alternative weddings. If you’re looking for a loud emcee, smoke machines, and line dances, look elsewhere. My job is to showcase the simple and elemental joy that music invokes in all of us. I provide an eclectic soundtrack to accompany your big day, including cocktail hour music, dinner music, and my true forte: a bumpin’ dance party that spans generations.

JTD Productions
845-679-8652, jtdproductions.com
Founded by Dave Leonard, JTD Professional DJ Services has over 25 years of experience creating just the right atmosphere for your elegant country wedding. For every gig, they have backup systems, a million dollar insurance plan, and even backup djs, each with years of experience, making the party hop. They free your mind, so you can have maximum fun on your big day or night.

Nick Gianni & On Ka
nickgiann28@gmail.com
Classical Flute and Guitar Duet for ceremonies or cocktail hour.

Other Notables:
A Perfect Blend Entertainment
Blue Vipers of Brooklyn
Catskill Quartet, Palenville
David Albert Temple Guitarist
Harpist Janet King