FAQ: Can I choose the songs played for my wedding?

With Smith Event Services, the answer is a resounding YES! We never dictate to the bride and groom what music they should play at their own wedding. A wedding is very personal, and your wedding day is yours to create as you wish! You can pick all of the songs, or none of the songs. 
Typically, brides and grooms will request a special song for their first dance, if they choose to have one. They may also choose to pick special songs for dancing with their parents or family. Here is a list of common wedding elements/dances for which you can choose the music. Remember, the DJ will come prepared with appropriate music for these moments, but you can always suggest your own preferred songs!

Ceremony Options:

• Prelude (the music that plays while guests are being seated - for example, love songs, piano instrumentals, string instruments, classical wedding music, or thematic options)
• Special prelude music for bridesmaids’ walk (groomsmen may also have their own song but this is all optional)
• Live music, bands, singers (musicians may play before or during ceremony - keep in mind that they may need microphones/audio reinforcement)
• Processional (bride’s song to walk down the aisle)
• Recessional (song the married couple returns down the aisle to, often upbeat and celebratory)

Reception Options:

• Introduction/Entrance Song (the song that plays when the bride and groom are announced to the room as Mr. and Mrs.)
• First Dance (Bride and Groom)
• Father/Daughter Dance
• Mother/Son Dance
• Family dances or special dances (ex. grandparent dance, or step-parent dances)
• Choreographies / dance routines
• Bouquet toss song
• Garter toss song
• Cake-cutting song
• Kids dances
• Line dances
• The Last Dance song (a song for the couple to have an intimate, private dance at the end of the night, after all the guests have filed out. A nice way to share a private moment after a busy evening)

Other music considerations:

• Tell your DJ about any songs you HATE or do not want played at your wedding (for example, it’s your second marriage and you do not want the DJ to play a song from your first wedding!)
• Absolute MUST-HAVES (songs or genres you really want to hear before the night is over)
• Clarify with the DJ if you want to avoid songs that are anything but squeaky-clean in lyrics or theme​
• Whether you want to allow requests from the guests (we’ve seen some crazy requests and can filter as appropriate, but it’s helpful to let your DJ know your tolerance for this)
• Think about whether you are more interested in hearing music that you and your spouse enjoy, or if you are more interested in catering to the guests’ musical tastes and tolerances. It’s important to strike a balance in keeping both the young folks and older folks happy and dancing.
  
  If you are unsure how to handle the music or music schedule for your wedding day, please reach out to us for a free consultation! We are happy to help you make your music decisions.