Determining your wedding music is a very important part of planning a wedding reception. This is the music that sets the tone of the event, the music that people will remember, and will be caught on video by the videographer. So choose your music wisely. When it comes to wedding music you have three choices, classic instrumental, a band (usually one that covers popular songs or songs you enjoy), or a DJ.

      Classic weddings usually choose a classic instrumental group. Along these lines are the string quartet, the pianist accompanied by a violinist, and other small groups that play orchestra instruments. These types of groups are wonderful for the ceremony itself, as well as the time during the wedding reception when everyone is enjoying their dinner. However, these types of groups are usually hired for a limited time. Often, they only perform for a few hours, which means they usually stop playing after dinner. In this case, a DJ usually takes over. This is when the dance music or party music can begin, and everyone can let loose a little.

      The next option is a band that covers popular songs. This type of wedding music group usually cannot be asked to play during the ceremony. They are for the reception only. Some groups may have a number of hours which they will perform, which means you will have to switch to a DJ afterwards, while other groups may be willing to perform all night. You will have to weigh the different fee options and see which will be worth it for your wedding.

      Third option would be the DJ. Like the cover band, DJs can't perform at the ceremony, but they can definitely begin and end the reception for as long as you like. A DJ can also come equipped with some classical music, if this is what you want to play at dinner, and the type of dance music you want to party to after the formalities are finished. Most DJs are relatively cheap. What you will have to look into is whether or not they own their own turntables or mobile set, or if you will have to rent these out for them. Remember to ask these questions so you don't get surprised over what you will have to do or the extra equipment you will need to rent out.

      Consider that you don't need all night wedding music. If you have your wedding on a Sunday or weekday, you may not have enough guests who are willing to stay very late. If you have your wedding on a Saturday or Friday, people may still have weekend plans they need to attend to the next day. Usually, you know your friends best, and whether or not they are the types who will want to celebrate till dawn. Remember that it's okay to “run out” of music. Especially if the time that you run out is a good time for people to begin heading home.

      Finally, always remember to book early. If you and your fiancée already know what kind of music you want to be playing when you did the visualization exercise talked about in the article “Why Planning Your Own Wedding Pays Off”, then begin listening to and scouting out possible wedding bands, music, DJs, and groups as early as the second quarter of your wedding time line. Remember, the earlier you book, the better. This is because you are assured you will get the music you want, plus you are sure that you will get a better price for early booking.

Next Article: Planning a Wedding Reception: Hiring a Photographer