Congratulations... you've decided to have a wedding to celebrate your marriage and pledge of love to each other. This article is offered to help with one small facet of planning this special event -- music for your ceremony.

Music is the perfect element to accompany and enhance this emotional and cherished occasion. Some couples will have a clear idea of the musical sound they desire for their ritual. Others may find it difficult. Know that it's okay... this is something you've not done before, with the added stress that it's a one-time occasion.

In the past, choices were few and this made it easier. The usual scenario included a church organ and/or vocalist performing "Oh Promise Me," "I Love You Truly" and "Here Comes the Bride." This traditional approach is still an option. In this day and age, all things are possible. With a bit of imagination, research and conversation with your intended partner, friends, family, wedding professionals and musicians, you can find the ideal music to suit your own personal vision.

Keep an open mind and don't be afraid to to be totally original. Allow this event to reflect who you are and the essence of your relationship. Your wedding is a creative and caring part of yourselves, which you will be sharing with your guests and loved ones.

If you have absolutely no idea at all, a good first step is to take into account the location of your ceremony: place of worship, private residence, catering hall, on a boat, outdoors in a tent or pavilion, an open field, or hilltop. This could be a deciding factor for the instrumentation.

Acoustic instruments have the greatest flexibility. Some possible choices include piano, organ, guitar, harp, strings (violin, viola, cello), flute, trumpet, clarinet, saxophone or something exotic and unusual -- sitar, bamboo flute, banjo, accordian or bagpipes.

Fortunately, electronic keyboards can go anywhere electricity can be provided and can duplicate any sound you desire: acoustic piano, organ, vibraphone, harpsichord, etc. If your ceremony is outdoors, special consideration will have to be made. Some keyboards can be powered with a rechargeable battery or generator that can be set up near the ceremonial site. This will also power an amplifier in the event that your chosen vocalist needs a microphone. Some singers are able to work well a capella and unamplified.

Once you decide which sound you like, you can choose the number of musicians to create the music and desired mood. You may want the poignant sound of one instrument, or a fuller sound -- a duo, trio or quartet comprised of similar or different instruments.The same musicians could also be employed to play during cocktails, whether in the same location or another location.

The type of music to choose from has unlimited possibilites. The important element to keep in mind is that it has meaning for you both. Some types of music to consider: classical, jazz, blues, pop, country, folk, movie themes, new age or a variety. Some couples are partial to recorded music that may have special significance, and it's quite acceptable to have a DJ with appropriate sound equipment program the choice of music.

It's a nice idea to have the music start about 15 or 20 minutes before the ceremony to create ambiance for the setting as your guests are arriving and being seated. Music after the ceremony is also important as they are leaving and it adds conviviality to your receiving line.

Basically, you will need two pieces of music to cover the procession: one for the wedding party (maid of honor, bridesmaids, flower girl, ring bearer) and another for the bridal march. The third essential piece is a recessional for the ceremony conclusion, which is uptemp and joyful. Music during the ceremony is optional. Pieces chosen may represent spiritual significance, romantic expressions, remembrances of family members, dedications or background to enhance a part of the ritual. It's alway nice to have a family member or friend make a musical contribution.

Once your ceremony is arranged, whether it's brief or more involved, prepare a script. This simple organizational element helps to insure that everything flows smoothly, as friends and family involved are relaxed knowing their part in the event. It also allows you and your partner presence of mind for this very precious moment. Be sure to situate the musicians in a spot where they can see what is going on, so their entrances and endings will be coordinated.

When you reach the point of interviewing musicians, ask for a demo tape of their music, or some place where you can hear them perform. Let them know what you have in mind, or ask for suggestions. They may have a list of their repertoire, which will be helpful and possibly expand upon your own ideas.

Planning this event may be a whole new learning experience for you both. Be patient, take your time, trust your ears and personal taste. Keep in mind that music is the language of love, and its addition to your ceremony will provide a harmony, weaving together the many feelings being shared by those present at your celebration.

Resource: Alyssa Reit Harp Music