From string quartet to brass to disco

Wedding music ranges from quintessential to downright quirky

WEDDING entertainment... what wedding entertainment? It's probably the last thing on your mind because it's possibly the one aspect of your wedding that you are certain about. That's once you've decided upon your reception venue that is.

Often the result is a hasty arrangement involving a press-ganged relative running a dodgy disco or grabbing a few CDs from your collection.To avoid this scenario, include entertainment in your list of things to do.

Entertainment can be as big or as little a part of your wedding as you want. If you're having a religious ceremony you'll need to think about the hymns and where you want them played. If you choose to have a choir, this will not only add a special touch to the whole event, but if guests are a little shy, then it will encourage them to sing along.

For a daytime reception, you might choose to hire a harpist and flute duo, a string quartet or a small jazz band to make some romantic background noise. Their repertoire should be light enough to appeal to a varied age group and never so loud that it overwhelms the conversation.

The most important thing here is to choose music that you really like. However, you might also like to consider your venue. A classic string quartet, for example, might seem rather out of place in a contemporary hotel, but perfect for a stately home. And, of course, practicalities and budget come into every decision.

Generally, the more musicians, the more money... so stick to duos or trios if you want to keep costs lower. The evening entertainment is a matter of personal choice. Anything goes, from karaoke to a live orchestra, or a jazz band to a disco.

As well as choosing something you'd like that fits in with your budget, it's important to consider the age range of your guests. Something like a jazz band is generally suitable for all age groups. Check whether your venue has any restrictions. Some, for example, don't allow dancing. In this case, keep any music in the background and not too lively!

Some venues arrange a disco, so it may be worth popping down to see what it is like before you decide. Rather than take a pick of the choice in the Yellow Pages, as around for recommendations or see the person playing live to see if that is the kind of thing you are after.

If you want a live band, expect to pay for quality. There are a number of local musicians who specialise in weddings and really know their thing. Remember that when you decide upon the band or musician there will more than likely be a vast age range present, so don't go choosing trance when you Gran will be sat next to the speaker.

The best advice if you are choosing a live musician is to have a back up plan. We are all human and there may be small chance that the person will be ill, so have a disco on hand just in case and you won't be disappointed.

Entertainment doesn't have to stop at music though. Magicians are also a popular alternative to keep your guests entertainment, as are fire eaters and jugglers... the list just goes on and on.

And don't forget the first dance. You may already have 'your song'. If you don't then dedicate some time to going through your collection and seeing what sparks off happy memories. If you really want to show-off you could always practice a dance to go with your song, or have some lessons, to impress your guests.