How to Choose Your Wedding Music

When it comes to planning your wedding, choosing the right music is about more than just picking a first dance song. Music plays such an important past It sets the mood, keeps your guests entertained, and helps tell the story of your day. Whether you're torn between hiring a live band, booking a DJ, or creating your own playlist, here's how to decide what music choice works best for your celebration.

What Vibe Do You Want

Think about the kind of atmosphere you’re hoping to create. Are you wanting a high energy party with guests dancing until last call? A DJ might be your best match as they can keep the energy flowing and take requests on the go. Or do you want more of a laid back, romantic vibe? A live band, jazz trio, or acoustic duo can create a more intimate feel.

You could even mix both! Hire a string quartet to play your ceremony, followed by a DJ taking over for cocktails and dancing.

Factor In Your Venue

Your venue plays a big role in what kind of music setup is realistic. Outdoor weddings may come with noise restrictions. Historic venues might have space limitations that make a full band setup tricky. Before you get your heart set on anything, ask your venue what they allow (or don’t) when it comes to music volume, timing, and equipment. Many venues have in-house speakers, but our tip is to utilize a DJ's speakers - less risk of blowing out the venues speakers resulting in a hefty fee!

Flow Of The Day

Your music needs will shift throughout the day so think of it per event.

• Ceremony: A classical guitarist? A harpist? A pre-recorded playlist? The ceremony music sets the tone from the moment your guests arrive.

• Cocktail Hour: Something light and upbeat that allows conversation. Live jazz or a chill playlist can work beautifully here.

• Dinner: Keep it soft and romantic so guests can chat and relax.

• Reception: Time to turn up the energy of the day! Whether it’s a DJ or a band playing your favourite songs, this is where you want your guests to let loose.

Make It Personal

Your wedding playlist should feel like you. Add songs that are meaningful to your relationship such as the track that played during your first date, or the artist you both love singing to in the car. And don’t feel pressured to go with overused wedding classics if they don’t fit your style. The best moments come when the music reflects your story Also don’t be afraid to create a do-not-play list. If there are certain songs you can't stand let your DJ or band know in advance.

Have a unique vision in mind? Let your planner (hi, that’s us!) know early. We’ll help with logistics, timing, and setup so everything flows seamlessly. At the end of the day, the right music choice is the one that feels right to you. Whether that’s a live band, DJ, or your own curated playlist, what matters most is that your soundtrack fits the experience you want to create.

Photos by Kadie Hummel Photography, Lily and Grey Photo Co, and Breeze Photography