How to create a sensational soundtrack for your wedding

Credit: Laura Jean Photography

HOW TO CREATEA s e n s a t i o n a s o u n d t r a cl kFOR YOUR WEDDING

Music creates atmosphere, cues key moments in the day, and elevates or calms the energy of the space. When it comes to creating the perfect playlist for your wedding day, there's a lot to consider. But don’t worry, we’ve got some sound advice (pun intended!) to help you master your big day playlist.

Live music vs DJ: the great debate Live performances are engaging and intimate whilst a

DJ will play your favourite songs exactly the way you

enjoy listening to them. But before you discount either

option, do your homework and understand the unique

benefits of each choice. If finances allow, why not

consider a combination of the two! For example, your musician(s) can provide musical accompaniment

during the ceremony and canapés, and your DJ can take Factor in all the key musical moments of your day Most couples give considerable thought as to which

song they want played for their first dance and the song

they want to walk down the aisle to, but have you

thought about musical accompaniment for other key times? Make sure that your DJ and/or musicians are on

the same page as you regarding your preferences for

these important musical moments:

• The signing of the vows • Recessional / walk-out song • Post-ceremony background music (usually during canapés / cake cutting / cocktail hour)

• Entry into the reception venue as the new Mr and Mrs

• First dance

• Father / daughter and mother / son dances (if you plan to include this)

• Personalised walk-up songs for speechmakers • Last dance (before the two of you leave the reception)

Assess the acoustics and logistics of your venue Your ceremony and reception venues will have repercussions on the sound

dynamics at your wedding. The acoustics in a small room will be very different

from a large outside space. Your sound crew will need to know where the

closest plug points are, or if they need to rely on generators or battery power.

Choose your ceremony songs wisely If you are having a religious ceremony, be aware that there may be restrictions on the type of music played (think about the appropriateness of certain song lyrics within the context of a place of worship).

Avoid awkward silences Most guests arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of the ceremony, but the

wait will seem much longer if everyone is sitting around in uncomfortable

silence. Ask your ceremony musician to start playing 20–30 minutes before

your intended start time, which generally signals guests to take their seats, and

creates a lovely atmosphere of joyful anticipation. Similarly, you will want to

avoid ‘dead air’ when guests move into the Reception venue. A professional DJ

knows what sort of tracks to play at the various stages of your event so don’t

underestimate the importance of entrusting your soundtrack to an experienced

crew.

Seek out referrals and recommendations Ask family and friends for recommendations of great DJ’s and musicians that

they’ve heard at recent weddings or events. Do your research and make sure

they have a good reputation, professional equipment, and plenty of experience

with weddings. If possible, try to hear them at another event before you engage

their services.

The Do-Not-Play list If there are certain songs, or a particular style of music, that should not be

played, communicate this to your musician or DJ. The Do-Not-Play list avoids

potential embarrassment, offence and possibly an unintentional emptying of

the dance floor.

b y J a c q u i N e u m a n n

MARRIAGE MEANDER

... Because a perfect day needs a perfect soundtrack

Great service • Reliable equipment • Flexible solutions • Battery operated system for remote venues

www.djksa.co.za

083 782 0642 info@djksa.co.za MUSIC