Common Types Of Wedding Receptions
And Uncommon Musical Suggestions
STAN WIEST
Member Association Bridal
Consultants
LARGE FORMAL WEDDING
RECEPTION
Most
traditional wedding receptions require a large venue and the music should match
this magnitude. Certain instruments such as acoustic guitar, harp or solo
violin get lost in a huge banquet hall. Make sure the instrumentation for a
ceremony or cocktail hour matches your venue.
You want
something that will totally knock out your guests. A full string orchestra can
be available - up to 15 pieces. It may sound extravagant but it can definitely
be affordable and it makes an incredible impression and presentation for a
cocktail hour. The biggest and longest lasting impression is the first thing
your guests see or hear at your wedding.
One of my clients had 300 guests traveling to their wedding from all over the
world. They wanted entertainment that would transcend the cultural differences
and provide something everyone would enjoy. After a 10 course dinner and an
hour of dance music I provided a square dance/line dance caller to take over.
For two hours everyone got involved. It did not matter if they had two left
feet. Anyone can do square dance and line dance with the help of a caller.
If you have a large indoor-outdoor reception space, why not create different
mingling areas, each with a specific mood? A tented lounge with sofas,
personalized martinis and a solo singer, a piano bar area , a string
quartet playing chamber music in a grassy nook or a Latin band heating up the
dance floor.
ELEGANT ENTERTAINMENT
One trend catching on is having Ballroom Dancers perform during dinner.
This does not
disturb the dinner conversation. It provides that something special that you
guests will always remember. Two 15 minute performances with costume changes
will enhance any dinner serving time.
CASUAL
COUNTRY
An outdoor, laid back atmosphere can go from a Dixieland Banjo Band with or
without sing alongs around a campfire to the wishes one of my clients
had of a Jazz Band performing for a wedding in a barn on a farm in a country
setting.
Consider the natural, calming sounds of a harp and flute duo for an afternoon
picnic reception or "unplugged sessions" where a band performs
acoustic versions of classic rock or folk music. This adds a nostalgic
sensibility to the modern day receptions.
INTIMATE SOIREE
One or two strolling violins to take requests. It is a nice touch you can add
and it does not disturb the ambience of a cocktail hour or reception. A three
to eight piece Mariachi Band can perform during the cocktail hour or during
dinner.
FUNKY LOUNGE
For a relaxed piano bar effect-whether there's a built in piano or a keyboard
has to be brought in-consider building a sitting area around the keyboard - the
performer can take requests from the guests as well as interact with them.
A bossa
nova or samba trio (traditional or new wave) is a cool option, not only for
those with Brazilian roots, but for any couple who enjoys sultry rhythms.
An authentic jazz band may not sound unusual but if you find a truly great one,
you and your guests will
"feel it". There is an authenticity that can only happen when
musicians play the type of music that is their passion and specialty.
TROPICAL PARTY
There is nothing better than steel drums. Make sure these are the authentic
performers from Trinidad and Jamaica dressed in Caribbean attire.
For fun and a theatrical welcome to guests consider a fanfare or trumpeters or
lute players in medieval outfits.
For that extremely unique effect bring in a Sitar and Tabla performers (music from
India). Seat them on a raised area covered with Indian rugs. The
effect ie mesmerizing.
STAN
WIEST
(631) 754-0594
Email stan@stanwiest.com
For additional ideas,
suggestions and helpful hints please visit our other websites
www.stanwiest.com/the_wedding_dress_you_always_dreamed_about.htm
www.stanwiest.com/bride_and_groom_planning_whose_wedding_is_it_anyway.htm
www.stanwiest.com/wedding_cocktail_hour.htm
www.stanwiest.com/wedding_receptions_uncommon_musical_suggestions.htm
www.stanwiest.com/creative_trends.htm
www.stanwiest.com/return_to_traditional_weddings.htm
www.stanwiest.com/change_of_pace_weddings3.htm
www.stanwiest.com/wedding_reception_music_bands3.htm
www.stanwiest.com/wedding_music_budgeting2.htm
www.stanwiest.com/wedding_reception_music_trends2.htm
www.stanwiest.com/band_dj_orchestra_combination_2008.htm
www.stanwiest.com/new_york_wedding_orchestra_dj_band_trends.htm
www.stanwiest.com/long_island_bride_and_groom_wedding_planning.htm
www.stanwiest.com/stan_wiest_bands_orchestras_djs.htm
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