Wedding Music Samples

Wedding invitations are the focal point of your wedding stationery, providing the first glimpse into the style and formality of the wedding. While save-the-dates can be flirty and fun, your invitations will be a true reflection of your event. Plan your wedding invitations with care with my complete wedding invitation planning guide.

The Anatomy of a Wedding Invitation

Wedding Invitations can include a number of enclosures, depending on the nature of your wedding and your stationery budget. (obviously more enclosures means higher costs)

* Outer envelope: Holds all enclosures, formally addressed to the recipient.

* Inner envelope: Holds all contents of the formal, third-person invitation for protection during shipping.

* Reception card: Specifies where and when the reception will be held – usually included only if the ceremony and reception take place at different locations.

* Response card: On which your guests indicate acceptance or regrets. In self-addressed stamped envelope. Make sure to include an RSVP deadline.

* Map/Directional: Optional insertion to help guests navigate and arrange for accommodations

Cost … Budget Considerations

Before you go shopping, become familiar with the invitation printing process and lingo; this will help you determine your needs in advance and avoid unnecessary costs. Price is determined per invitation, so if your guest list is huge – be prepared to designate a significant portion of your budget to wedding invitations. Costs can range anywhere from – each. Bulky papers, colored inks and unique graphics all increase the cost. Custom designs can also be pricey. Printing options also affect the cost.

Invitation Printing Options:

* Engraving – most formal and most expensive – results in raised print that is pressed through the back

* Thermography – less expensive than engraving – results in raised print that does not press through the back * Lithography – less expensive than either engraving or theromography – results in print that is neither raised nor pressed through

* Laser printing – the least expensive option. – produced on a laser printer and results in print similar to that of lithography.

When factoring total costs, don’t forget to consider postage as part of your budget, including stamps for the response card envelopes. Looking for ways to save? Keep your design simple, sticking to one color. Use lighter weight papers and include less inserts. Use response postcards instead of cards with envelopes. More tips on finding cheap wedding invitations can be found at this guide to budget-friendly stationery.

Wedding Invitation Trends

As with all other aspects of your wedding, your invitations give you an opportunity to reflect a particular color, theme, and/or season of your wedding. During the spring, include pressed flowers or a flower blossom motif featuring the colors of your wedding. Hot right now is Asian-inspired floral motifs or anything 3D that adds texture. For the fall, incorporate warm, colorful leaves. For a summer wedding, feature seashells and starfish with brilliant ocean-blues or sunset-orange/reds. And for the winter, incorporate snowflakes on a simple white invitation.

Other popular suggestions range from unique color combinations and patterns, to ribbons or other clever themed items such as bindings. Many couples are going back to the traditional, formal look and featuring both sets of initials as monograms on the cover, but what’s even hotter is a creative logo or historic family seal. Whatever you decide, make your invitations innovative and unique to your personal style and wedding!

Looking for more ideas? You can search hundreds of wedding invitations in this interactive invitation and stationery photo gallery.

Tips, Rules … Etiquette

* When to send them – send wedding invitations 6-8 weeks before the big day. (if you think your guests will need more advanced notice, send save-the-date cards as well) Try to order invitations 3-4 months in advance to ensure they go out on time.

* How many to order – Order about 25% more than the number of guests you’re inviting – you’re bound to make mistakes or make last minute additions.

* Consider hiring a calligrapher for an added touch of elegance. (this is the first impression of your wedding!) Make sure to factor in the additional timing to ensure your invitations go out on time. Many rules apply to wording and addressing invitations. Here are some of the basics to ensure yours are “faux pas-free”:

Invitation Wording Etiquette

* Dates and times should be spelled out (half after four o’clock in the evening, not 4:30pm, and the twenty-second of April, not April 22)

* Mr. and Mrs. are abbreviated and Jr. may be, but the title Doctor should be spelled out

* No punctuation is used, except after abbreviations and between the city and state.

* An invitation to just the wedding ceremony does not include an R.S.V.P

* “Hosting” the wedding can mean anything from a set of parents helping to plan the event, inviting the guests, or covering the costs:

If there is one set of hosts, list their names at the beginning.

If both sets are hosting, list on separate lines with bride’s parents first.

If one set is hosting but you want to include the other set as well, note their names under their son/daughter’s name.

If you are hosting your own wedding, begin with the request line and state parent’s relationship under your name.

If you and both sets of parents are hosting, list your names first followed by “together with their parents” before the request line.

Addressing Etiquette

* No abbreviations, except for Mr., Mrs., Ms., and Jr. States must also be spelled out.

* If one of your single guests is bringing a date that you know personally, send that person a separate invitation instead of including “… Guest” on the inner envelope.

* If you are unable to obtain the name of a single friend’s guest – indicate on the inner envelope that they may bring a guest – NOT on the outer envelope. (this looks awkward)

* Unmarried couples who live together should receive one invitation, where their names are listed in alphabetical order and on their own lines.

* Invited guests who are living together as roommates, not couples, should each receive their own invitation.

* List the names of children under the age of 18 who still live at home on the inner envelope instead of “… Family” which can be very ambiguous and easily misinterpreted. Children over the age of 18 should receive their own invitation, regardless of their living situation.

* The traditional, married couple recipient should follow this format: Mr. … Mrs. Ryan Parker 2211 First Street, Apartment 3 San Diego, California 92109

Wedding Invitation Wording Samples

Gone are the days when wedding etiquette mandated that the bride’s parents, and the bride’s parent’s only, hosted the wedding. Today anyone can foot the bill, and with modern familial arrangements often anything but nuclear, there is no straightforward rule for wording invitations. We’ve sorted through the confusion to bring you wording samples for the most common arrangements. Have a circumstance not addressed here? Visit the complete list of wedding invitation wording examples at Elegala.com — Elegant Galas Made Simple.

Simple, Traditional Format

[proper names of those hosting] (official hosts line) request the honour of your presence (request line) at the marriage of their [relationship of the bride to the host] [bride's first and middle names] to [groom's full name], the [day of the week] of [day and month of wedding] at [hour] o’clock in the [time of day] at [name of wedding venue] in [city, state] Reception to follow

Divorced Parents

[proper name of host] requests the honour of your presence at the marriage of [his/her] [relationship of the bride to the host]

Or, if parent is remarried and hosting with new spouse:

[proper names of those hosting] request the honour of your presence at the marriage of [his/her] [relationship of the bride to the host]

Or, if divorced parents are mutually hosting:

[proper name of mother] and [proper name of father] request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their [relationship of the bride to the host]

When the Bride’s One Living Parent is Hosting

The invitation is issued only in the name of the living parent:

Mr. [Mrs.] Jonathan Stephen Smith and Timothy Wright requests the honour of your presence at the marriage of his [her] daughter Elizabeth Ann

When the Bride and Groom Host

The honour of your presence is requested it the marriage of Miss Ashley Johnson to Mr. Paul Wilkins

Miss Ashley Johnson and Mr. Paul Wilkins request the honour of your presence at their marriage

Alternative “Request Line” Options

* “pleasure of your company”

* “honor of your presence” (used instead of the formal “honour” when ceremony does not take place in a house of worship)

* “share and celebrate in their joy” – another creative idea that reflects the theme and tone of your wedding

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
where can i get wedding music samples (free)?
hi, I was wondering where I can find samples of wedding music. I now I want Four Seasons played but I was wondering what kind of songs to people sing at weddings. This is the hardest part and I really need some help! I dont want to download music illegally and I dont want to waste money on buying CD’s that I will never use again! Please help me! Thanks
- ANSWER:
  check out www.youtube.com
  You cant download them but you can listen to them.
  If you are downloading for yourself that isnt classed as illegal is it?
QUESTION:
Greek – Cypriot wedding music?
i am getting married in Cyprus and was wondering where on line i could hear samples of music?
- ANSWER:
  you can hear some Cypriot wedding music (not very good) on YouTube. Type, Greek Cypriot Village Wedding.
  
  thecypriotstore.com will also send you a CD, priced at £14.99
  of Cypriot Traditional Wedding Songs.
  
  Best wishes and have a lovely day!
QUESTION:
Rock music for a wedding?
I am helping my friend arrange her wedding and she wants something different from the usual music for her registry office occasion. She is a great rock fan but I cant find any samples on the wedding sites. Can anyone suggest any good pieces please..I’m all Googled out!
Looking for music for the ceremony, procession, recession and when signing the register. The evening do is sorted!
Waspy…My favourite too, thats first on my list!
Thankyou Loribeth, wonderful list
- ANSWER:
  ‘Ernie’ by Bennie Hill
QUESTION:
what music should my guitarist play in my wedding?
He’s playing acoustic guitar, I’ve been searching music samples, but I’m just not sure? It would just be a song for part of the ceremony, not during anything in particular like the unity candle lighting or anything…any ideas?
- ANSWER:
  ask him for a few samples. have others audition have him sit in or not. but see what and how passionately the song can be played.
QUESTION:
Christian Wedding Music?
Anyone know of some great Christian songs I could use for my ceremony?? Like for the unity candle & exiting the church?? Or do you know of any websites that i can listen to samples of songs?? We are getting married in Catholic church and the priest would rather us use church appropriate songs for the ceremony…. we are planning on having a reception dance so we can use whatever type of music for that

Thanks
I tried google last night and came up with a bunch of stuff i could buy, but I’m just looking for some samples i could listen to before spending money on a cd
- ANSWER:
  try googling Christian wedding song… christian dance music… extra…
QUESTION:
Chillout Music For Wedding Ceremony?
Does anyone know of any ambient chill music that would be good to play at a wedding ceremony. Names of groups or where I can listen to samples would be great. Thanks.
- ANSWER:
  Here are some excellent music websites I refer my brides to – they all have samples and various versions of traditional wedding songs along with alternative ideas.
  
  http://www.wedalert.com/songs/ceremony/index.asp – I believe this site has some new, young, refreshing “bridal march” alternatives, written especially for the bride to walk down the aisle.
  
  http://weddings.weddingchannel.com/wedding-planning-ideas/popular-wedding-songs-music.aspx
  
  http://www.weddingmusiccentral.com/
  
  http://www.ourweddingsongs.com/
  
  http://www.weddingwire.com/wedding-songs
QUESTION:
Wedding March with a twist?
I’m a woman, getting married in about two years from now. (approx June of 2012)
No concrete date has been set yet

I have been drawing & designing the actual wedding though.

I’m planning on a Japanese / American wedding.
American as far as the cultural exchanging vows and cutting the cake, rings, etc,

I’ll be marrying in a furisode kimono & uchikake, and my bridesmaids will be wearing yukata.
He (my fiance) will be wearing Hakama & his groomsmen … he hasnt made up his mind on that — I want him to be able to design part of the wedding too, since he’s going to star in our wedding too!!

Okay, my question is this:

Is there any possible way that the traditional ” Wedding March ” can be messed with by someone that’s good with that sort of thing, and put a * koto music * twist into it?

In case you dont know how either of them sound here are some links to both:

Koto music sample:

http://www.video4viet.com/music.html?act=play&id=4b5fa43b22ef832e79be23ad430616fc

Wedding March sample:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXNtmdd4E6k

Like, change it up a bit?

We both love Koto music, as it reflects his culture (Japanese) but I also love the wedding march as it reflects mine (American).

I’d love to hear any samples.

Thanks so much for helping out.
BTW I’m not afraid of trying/hearing new things! I would really like to see/hear/know if anyone can embrace the elements of koto music as well as the organ in wedding march. Thanks again.

If it helps out any;

When i was a little girl, my mom would play (professionally) at weddings and funerals, but she would commonly play the wedding march at home on the piano or organ, or bring us to church and play it on the pipe organ. My sister and I would dress up in our little communion dresses and pretend to be brides. I think it’s important that I incorporate some of my old memories in my own wedding, which is why I would like both mine & my fiance’s memories to be entwined.
@Aya — Easier said than done = There’s practically no one in my area that even knows what a koto IS, let alone, plays one. But alas; tis the reason I posted the question via the internet
- ANSWER:
  Hmmm . . . if you want to have it played on organ . . . I would probably try to use the Reed division and play it a bit staccato. Not sure if that would work, though.
QUESTION:
Indie/alternative/instrumental wedding music?
I need some help finding some good Indie love songs for a wedding. I don’t want anything too weird or wild. I have tons of slower stuff so more upbeat songs would be helpful. I am also trying to get about 15 minutes of nice instrumental music preferably joyous type stuff. I have a few songs by Mark Mothersbaugh from some of the soundtracks he did scores for. I am not looking for anything top 40 or big radio play type of stuff unless it’s a really good cover. Sample of stuff I have so far:

Bright Eyes – First Day Of My Life
Postal service – Such Great Heights
Stevie Wonder – I Believe (When I Fall In Love With You)
Travis – Flowers In The Window
Jets To Brazil – Sweet Ave
Beatles – I Want To Hold Your Hand
Wreckless Eric – Whole Wide World
Lou Reed – This Magic Moment
- ANSWER:
  My Morning Jacket – Lowdown
  
  The Antlers – Look! (Instrumental)
  
  idk how big the Coral are
  
  The Budos Band (All instrumental, Afrobeat, funk)
  
  http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=the+budos+band&aq=f
  
  Chris Joss ( All Instrumental, funky, porney weird good stuff)
  
  http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=chris+joss&aq=f
QUESTION:
Need Help With Wedding Music!!!!?
I am looking for a song to walk down the isle to. I have listened to numeruos samples and none that i have heard have what i am looking for. I want it to start off really soft and then have a part shortly after it starts where it gets heavier… wich would be when i start walking down the isle. pls if u have any suggestions im am totaly open to hear them.
- ANSWER:
  “I Finally Found Someone”… Bryan Adams & Barbara Streisand
  
  http://youtube.com/watch?v=TSvgv3FOlAI&feature=related
  
  “All My Life”… Linda Ronstadt & Aaron Neville
  
  http://youtube.com/watch?v=v_bN-oKE2Jg&feature=related
  
  “Grow Old With Me”… Mary Chapin Carpenter
  
  http://youtube.com/watch?v=lrhzI2jbMqo&feature=related
  
  “Love Will Always Win”… Garth Brooks & Trisha Yearwood
  
  http://youtube.com/watch?v=3G9j_IRxR-Q&feature=related
  
  “I Give”… Shawn King & Willie Nelson
  
  http://youtube.com/watch?v=mshyesRSCxU
QUESTION:
Best gothic wedding music?
Looking for low pitched, dramatic, majestic sound fit for royalty. have mozart’s requiem & scores from nbc, but need more & was hoping for something with a rock sound along the lines of metallica, tim rice or dragonheart. something soul stirring for a dramatic grand entrance for mutiple bride-groom couples. i need to know where to buy it as well as hopefully sample it online. i an only interested in authorized recordings-no downloads from other people. appreciate any suggestions, even if you only have a song title or artist name. any unknowns or little knowns out there that have this kind of thing? i need to find the best! this wedding needs to rock the town!
- ANSWER:
  How about any of these?
  
  Bach’s Tocatta and Fugue in D minor
  Danse Macabre(Dance of Death) by Saint-Saens
  Moonlight sonata by Beethoven
  Carmina Burana by Orff
  Montagues and Capulets by Prokofieff.
  Soundtracks for Phantom (of course) Swan Lake, Romeo & Juliet.
  Danny Elfman’s works and stuff by Franz Reizenstein
  
  You may also find this youtube channel helpful, it contains questions and answers to common wedding music queries http://www.youtube.com/user/WeddingMusicSecretTV#grid/user/D219D025CD610E57
  
  All the best,
  
  Jennie x
  
  http://www.wedding-music-secret.com
QUESTION:
Music for wedding processional — any unique ideas?
I’ll be getting married in May, and I hope to include unique and elegant music within the wedding ceremony. I want to avoid the cliche pieces, such as Bach’s Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, Pachebel’s Canon in D, etc… The musician who will be playing at our ceremony is an extremely capable pianist, so I’m not afraid to throw any ideas his way, no matter the difficulty level!

For the bridal party, I am considering Ravel’s Pavane pour une infante defunte (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcm9X5kuehc) played at a “walkable tempo.”

For my entrance, I’m considering:
Schubert’s Impromptu in G Flat Major (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZxH3kmNuVM)
Tchaikovsky’s Apotheose from his ballet, Sleeping Beauty (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFsY6dcv3oA)
Doug Briley’s Wedding Theme (http://jabezpress.com/catalogue/11006.html — click “hear a sample”)

I’m stuck on the recessional… at this point, I’m thinking of using Beethoven’s Ode to Joy. It’s a decent option — powerful and meaningful, but I’m hoping to come up with something a little less worn out.

So what do you think of the pieces I’m considering? I’m curious to see if there are any other unique suggestions for me to consider!
- ANSWER:
  I would try music box dancer by frank mills I love this song
QUESTION:
I am tryin to help my sister find music for her wedding.?
I have a cpl of songs that I think she would like but I dont know of a website right off that would allow her to hear free samples of the song when I suggest them. Could someone plz help? Im not to sure of whats illegal now and not! Songs are from waaaaaaay back to current!! THANKS for any help!!
I was tryin to burn the songs on a CD so she could just listen to them all at one time and take her pick!!
- ANSWER:
  hope this helps http://www.wedalert.com/songs/index.asp
QUESTION:
Music/concert themed wedding invitation wording?
I have no idea how to word my concert/wedding themed invitations.
Here’s some info:
We are paying ourselves, with some help from our parents
Married in church at 2:00
then reception at 6:00
The invites are designed like mini concert posters and the reply cards are tickets.

on the save the dates we call the church the “opening act” and the reception the “headliner” But I have NO idea how to word things on the invites.

Does the reception get its own little card or is it included on the invite?

Some samples would be very much appreciated!
I wasn’t really asking for an opinion about my wedding, I was asking for wording, and the guest will be invited for cocktails and a few snacks at our home during the intermission. We have an extremely large room where we have fit over 100 people in it comfortably.

Our wedding is meant to be different and the wording for the Opening act, and headliner stays. Because thats exactly what they are. The opening act is the church, which leads into the headliner, the party.

I’m looking how to word my invites, not an opinion of what I should do for my wedding.
- ANSWER:
  I think you should stick with the traditional formal wording, don’t go overboard with the metaphors. That’s ok for the STD cards but not a formal invitation.
  
  I’ve gotten some invitations recently that have a quote or song lyrics at the top, before the invitation text begins. You could use a line or two from the song you’re using as your first dance, or a few bars from the sheet music of your processional or recessional music.
  
  Then since you’re hosting the wedding without your parents, it just goes like this:
  jane marie smith
  and
  robert david perry
  together with their parents
  request the honor of your presence at their marriage
  june fourth, two thousand eleven (you have to spell it all out)
  two o’clock in the afternoon
  sun city botanical gardens
  sun city, AZ
  reception to follow the ceremony at six o’clock
  
  Then you enclose a separate reception card that lists the time and place of the reception, and directions.
QUESTION:
Where can I find an index of songs/music that I can listen to for free?
I’m looking for ideas for my wedding music , I need some inspiration…want to be able to view all different songs, listen to a sample on my PC and go out and buy it on a CD. Is there a web site I can do this on without having to pay a fee to join or download?
- ANSWER:
  hav a look at these and see if u can find something there.
  www.limewire.com
  www.frostwire.com
  www.mp3rocket.com
  
  hope u find wot u want for your wedding and hope u have a nice day..good luck
QUESTION:
questions about wedding songs for 1st dance and father and daughter dance?
does anybody know of a website that you can listen to sample music by the window media player? without have to download any other music program. i just need to listen to some sample songs for the first dance for father and daughter any suggestion would be greatly honored.
- ANSWER:
  www.weddingglobe.com
QUESTION:
What do you think of this song as a wedding march?
I’m asking this in the poetry section because, frankly, you guys are smarter and more honest than the people in the wedding section. The basic story of our wedding: he’s a space engineer, I’m a law student. His dad’s a pastor, my family’s Jewish, I’m Christian, he’s Chinese. So, pretty unconventional. We’re each other’s first love, we’ve been dating for 6 years and things just get better with time. We had to spend a year apart last year to study, and it was really difficult. He sent me this song during that year, and it became very meaningful to us. Now he wants me to walk down the aisle with it playing.

I like the song (in fact, it still gives me goosebumps when I think how much we missed each other), but I worry that people might get the wrong idea from some of the lyrics. I’ve heard all that stuff about it being our day and doing whatever we like, but we both have a strong sense of our reliance on and gratefulness to the community, and we’re throwing a party for THEM, not us. So how do we do this? If you were a guest, would the lyrics make you think that we’re depressive or unfaithful? Would you even notice the lyrics? What if we were to replace the dodgy lines with something else, and get someone to perform it live? If so, how could we alter the lines?

(you can hear a sample of it at http://music.yahoo.com/Jars-Of-Clay/Only-Alive/lyrics/2091369)

The lyrics: ‘Only Alive’ by Jars of Clay

I’m a fair-weather friend
I’m a colourless view
But I’m willing to make a deal
If you think you can make
Some faith here inside
I’ll drive off and marry you

I’m only alive with you
I can’t get by and I won’t get through
So put me in the river, let me say ‘I do’
I’m only alive with you

You’re a sight for sore eyes
And a new-born cry
In a year where there are so few
If you throw me a line
I’ll show you in time
I’m falling in love with you

I’m only alive with you…

Though my heart has been torn
By the loves I have worn
And I’m tempted by them ever still
I tremble inside
When you walk in the room
You hold my affections at will

I’m only alive with you…
- ANSWER:
  Do both of you like it? Does it mean something to you (even if that “something” is just between you two)? Then you have a winner. You would be surprised how few people listen to the lyrics.. besides unless your aisle is an airport runway, a 3 minute plus song is going to have to be cut down. Have fun
QUESTION:
Should I have wedding video taped by college students?
I found a video service that uses college students to tape weddings. They film using 3 Hi Def cameras and 2 camera operators for 0 which appears to be about half the price of other services in my area. Samples of their work looks great and they have good references. Photo montage, pre-wedding prep, ceremony, reception. All on DVD with chapters and a 10 min hightligts recap to music. Does this sound good for Orange County,CA area? Do you think it will be ok to have college students video my wedding?
- ANSWER:
  Sure, why not? They are training to be professionals and may be able to offer you alot more ideas at no charge than a pro. If you are looking into a school with a decent film school then I dont see the problem with it. Most of these people who are in college working on filming have been doing it since high school, so although their experince may not be ‘filming the toni braxton wedding’, they have new and fresh ideas. (And its half the cost!).
  Just be sure to ask for samples and MAKE SURE that the students you talk to will be available that day and there is a back up in case they call in sick or something else happens. (College kids can be a lil flakey….).
QUESTION:
what if the love of your life bailed out with the wedding planner on your wedding day?
I am one of my cousins wedding planner assistants,who get all the samples for places and clothes fot the bridesmaids and stuff…cuz i want to be a wedding planner by age25..well, the groom wasn’t really in love with the bride..it was an arranged marriage!!unfortunately, one of the actual planners fell in love with his dancing the tango or some spanish dance, anyway the second the music started, they drove off in her truck..with the cans bells banging on the road..what a day to spend your special day huh?
- ANSWER:
  Sounds like a movie I once saw
QUESTION:
What are some good rock/punk wedding songs?
I am putting together a CD for my friends wedding. She’s into punk rock music, and I have a few songs I’d like to include on the CD but I need a few more.
Here’s a sample of what I have:
“I’ll Catch You” by The Get Up Kids
“I wanna grow old with you” by Adam Sandler
” I believe in a thing called love” by the darkness
“punk rock princess” by something corporate
I also have some Barry White, and Billy Joel
- ANSWER:
  “Who Would’ve Thought” and “Corazon de Oro” by Rancid on Life Won’t Wait
  
  “Sarah”, “I Still Love You” and “Feed my Girl” by the Slackers on Slackers Live at Ernestos
  
  “Questioningly” by the Ramones on Road to Ruin
  
  I hope these help…
QUESTION:
Wedding songs?
I’m getting married in about 10 months and I was having trouble finding songs for my reception and a song for our first dance together. I know what my procession will be. I’m looking for a good duet song for his uncle and his friend’s wife to sing together. I’m also trying to find a good recessional song. Does anyone have any suggestions? Or does anyone know a website that I could sample music on?
- ANSWER:
  A great duet song is “When I Fall In Love”. There is a beautiful version sung by Celine Dion and Clive Griffin. You can find it on the Sleepless in Seattle soundtrack. Congratulations and Good Luck!
QUESTION:
nontraditional harp pieces for a garden wedding?
Hi. I’m getting married next September, & I’m looking for some beautiful music our harpist could play for the ceremony. It will not be a religious wedding, and it will take place in an arboretum garden in Minnesota.

Do you have any non-run-of-the-mill suggestions? We don’t want anything overplayed such as: “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring,” “Air on the G String,” “Pachelbel’s Canon,” “Ode to Joy,” etc…

*If you have links to audio samples of your suggestions, that would help a TON!

Thanks so much, guys!!
- ANSWER:
  “Some Enchanted Evening” Rogers & Hammerstein
  “All I Ask of You” from Phantom of the Opera
  “Hawaiian Wedding Song”
  “Give Me Your Hand” traditional Irish
  “Mairi’s Wedding” traditional Irish
QUESTION:
Is it wrong to provide the band with list of songs for the evening?
The band that is playing at our wedding provided me with a sample song list of what they typically play at a wedding. I only knew 3 songs on the entire sheet! I am really worried! And not that it is a big deal but the band members are almost all in their 50′s. I don’t want to put people to sleep with old slow music.

I want to have fun and get people dancing, so is it terrible of my to create a list of like 50 songs that I would prefer be played?
- ANSWER:
  Absolutely not. They are just providing a sample sheet for people who have NO idea what kind of songs to play. I gave my DJ a list of must plays and do not plays (I didn’t want anyone doing the chicken dance). After he got a feel for what type music we were looking for and filled in the rest. Ask them if they know the songs that you are thinking about to make sure that they know how to play them.
QUESTION:
What is the name of this piece of music?
It is quite a famous piece of music, it is a violin composition I think and it is the sample for the Vitamin C song ‘Graduation’ and also at the start of ‘See You When You Get There’ by Coolio. It is quite popular at weddings that is why I want to know what it is so I can use it at my wedding.
- ANSWER:
  Johann Pachelbel’s Canon in D Major
QUESTION:
Wedding Songs Advice?
I am the guy. I really don’t care overall what the wedding ceremony is like so long that at the end of it the piece of paper says the right girl and I get a piece of the wedding cake.

However, disinterest and complete disregard for the event is probably a bad idea. So, I am going to make my stand by being awesome at taking direction and owning one aspect. That one aspect being the wedding songs at the reception.

In the planning I want to have a list of songs I like for her to choose from (as well as a little wiggle room for a few that I think are crap and would never include except for her happiness– which I am certain she will bring to my attention when she does not see them). I want to give her about seven hours of music to choose four hours from. That way she knows I care and we will both like what is coming out of the speakers. I know it isn’t a big part of the whole day, but it is something I can genuinely care about and to have something already partially planned and put together then presented nearly already ready already is always nice when you are trying to plan an event.

I could really use your collective help. Suggest a play list, I’ll be looking for the artist, the song name, and a real bonus would be a link to where I can sample it on-line. A great source of links can be found on Youtube. Youtube has just about everything and a half despite copyright infringements and whatnot.

Hey thanks to all of you willing to give me a hand in keeping my future ball and chain happy. (Yes, Social Distortion will be making at least a short cameo with a sample of Ball and Chain…) I buy her dancing lessons for us every Christmas. Bonus points if it is dancable for a Cha-Cha, swing, rumba, foxtrot, or waltz.

For the people willing to compete for best answer. Best answer goes to the person with the largest quantitiy of songs I add to my list + bonus points.

For everyone else, I hope my gratitude will suffice.

(Dudes, whatever trouble you are in before going to a dance lesson with her will be forgotten by the end of the lesson. Highly recommended, besides if gives you a chance to touch each other, work together, and spend time paying attention to her– which will driver her insane with euphoria. It’s like natural ‘E’, seriously.)
- ANSWER:
  How about I do Cherish you by 98 degrees, and try this one i love this one The day I fall in love by Dolly Parton and James Ingram, and Leather and Lace by Stevie Nicks, also try Before I fall in Love Coco Lee. hope this helps these are the songs i am going to use at my wedding. good luck
QUESTION:
Help with decision process for ceremony music/photographer?
I am not putting a heavy emphasis on photography for my wedding. I have set up a craig’s list ad looking for a photographer who is looking to build a portfolio and can cut me a deal. I’ve had many responses, but how do I decide who to talk to more and what questions should i be asking? Also, I live 3 hours from where the wedding will be…. Is it absolutely necessary to meet with them before making a decision?

Second, I also set up a similar ad for a guitar player for the ceremony. Should I hear them play in person, or do you think the myspace samples I’m getting should be enough to make my decision?

Thanks!
- ANSWER:
  Here is a website that has a list of questions to ask a wedding photographer:
  
  http://www.weddingphotousa.com/questions.htm
  
  You don’t have to meet them in person, but sometimes it’s a good idea so you can have an idea of their personality, etc. You don’t want someone you are uncomfortable with taking your pictures.
  Here are some questions for the musician as well:
  
  http://www.weddingmusicusa.com/questions.asp
  
  Hope all of this helps! Good luck
QUESTION:
I want to make my own photo montage at my wedding?
I’m really good at drawing out the emotion from music and from pictures.. I know which pictures I want to use -which music – I just want to know which software to use. I could have it professionaly done if I wanted to – but I don’t – I really want to do it myself so please just suggest a software nothing else..

Well I am a bit nervous to buy software I have never used before.. Especially one as expensive as Flash.. I have been playing around with this site for a while – and once I create something they can send it to me on a DVD or download it to an IPOD.. You can even mix video and pictures together.. add transitions, etc. for a much cheaper price.. So what do you guys think? Any potential problems that you can see? Does it look professional?

http://www.onetruemedia.com/otm_site/sample_06

http://www.onetruemedia.com/otm_site/sample_01
- ANSWER:
  I’ve used One True Media several times for my stuff and it came out fantastic! Check out their public gallery for examples. It ranges in quality in terms of what the original content was. But, if good stuff goes in, good stuff comes out. Good luck!
  
  http://www.onetruemedia.com/otm_site/browse_public
QUESTION:
I’m getting married in May, and I have a question….?
I’ve only been to two weddings in my life, and I was very small. I was wondering if you could give me an idea of what makes up a wedding ceremony. Readings, music, vows (obviously, I know), and whatever else? Perhaps you could make a sample ‘program’ I could see so I know what happens when. Thanks for the ideas and suggestions!
Ok people, I was asking about the ACTUAL CEREMONY. The place is booked, we have the minister, cake, gowns, the invitations are sent and we are receiving responses. All of that is taken care of. I need to know how a wedding ceremony typically goes….
It’s going to be a small outdoor Christian wedding.
- ANSWER:
  1. Seating of the guests, typically the groomsmen act as ushers until the service begins. The mothers of the bride and groom are typically the last to be seated, in reserved rows up front. You will also need to have some kind of soft music before the service.
  2. Next, the groomsmen and the bridesmaids enter. The guys stand on the grooms side and the girls on your side.
  3. Next the flower girl and ring bearer.
  4. Now it’s your turn, the music will start and your dad will walk you down the aisle.
  5. Quick prayer
  6. The officiant will say who gives this woman blah blah blah and your dad will say her mother and I.
  7. Do your vows, then maybe some sings or something.
  8. Exchange rings.
  9.Kiss your new husband.
  10. Exit the church
  11. Bridesmaids and groomsmen follow you out in the same order that they came in.
QUESTION:
Is it easy to translate/make a singing voice in a slow song into a tune played by an instrument?
So I’m planning a wedding and I want to hire some professional some musicians to play some instrumental music.
My dilemma is that I want to get them to play a certain song, but most of the melody of the song is actually the singer’s voice. Besides the voice, there is just a guitar in the background with a steady rhythm, and it would be hard to even recognize the song with just that.
Since there will be just musicians there, and noone actually singing, would it be possible to have an instrument play the melody normally sang by the lyrics? If so, which instrument(s) lends itself to this kind of thing? (I haven’t decided which kind to hire to play yet)
The song I want is Over the Rainbow / What a Wonderful World by Israel Kamakawiwo’Ole. Here it is on you tube in case you aren’t familiar with it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ltAGuuru7Q

I bought sheet music for the song, but since I don’t read music myself, I don’t know if it provides the information that would be needed for someone to play the melody of the song that is normally sung. There is a sample of the sheet music here.

http://www.musicnotes.com/sheetmusic/mtd.asp?ppn=MN0054479

Thank you if you can help!
- ANSWER:
  Any musician worth a salt can play that melody on his/her instrument, esp. since you are paying.
QUESTION:
I need help with a mall scavenger hunt list for my 17th birthday party by this Saturday!?
My birthday party is this Saturday the 14th of November and am going to the mall for a scavenger hunt. There are two teams of six which each get 100 dollars, a camera, writing utensils and one bag to hold everything. There are things involving money and things that dont. I made my list but it seems really uncreative and boring. My list is below. Each thing is worth a certain amount of points. The team with the most points in the alloted time wins.

One point:
___Buy something pink and polka dotted
___Buy something Twilight themed
___Buy a pair of sunglasses you would wear in Beverly Hills
___Buy an ornament from the Christmas Tree Shop
___Buy something sparkly you could paint on your toenails
___Get 2 perfume samples
___Ask for a straw from the food court or restaurant without buying anything

Two points:
___Buy something under two dollars
___Buy something from Hot Topic
___Buy a cool headband you cold wear to school that matches with a plain blue top
___Buy something sport’s related

Three points:
___Buy something lemon scented
___Buy underwear from Victoria’s Secret
___Buy an awkward bookmark from Barnes and Nobles
___Buy a fleece hat
___Buy something you could attach to your keys
___Get a disposable toilet seat cover (extra 7 points to put around neck and walk one lap around a section of the store while being videotaped)
___Get a group shot with the cutest pet (no one in group can take picture)

Four points:
___Buy a purse under ten dollars
___Buy three accessories you would wear to a Disney themed party
___Buy something 50% off
___Buy something flower related
___Buy something funny relating to a prank

Five points:
___Buy the coolest craft from Toy ‘R’ Us
___Buy a decorated shot glass
___Get a photo booth picture with everyone in it
___Buy the weirdest hat from iParty
___Buy something that is exactly .00
___Get an employee application

Six points:
___Buy something with a price that ends in a seven
___Buy the prettiest ribbon long enough to fit around someone’s head
___Buy one M&M
___When checking out at a store talk in an English accent
Seven points:
___Buy the most creative award ribbon from iParty
___Buy men’s underwear or a sports cup
___Buy a toy that you used to play with as a kid
___Buy the coolest socks
___Ask if toddler clothes come in your size
___Take a picture of these outfits
___Garden Party
___A date outfit for your mom
___CEO on their way to work
___Preschooler
___Going to a formal wedding of one of your friends
___Any 3 teachers of your choice from school
___Overly confident soccer mom
___Gangster outfit
___Prom

Eight points:
___Autograph or picture with a security guard
___Tell a Wal*Mart employee “I think we have a Code 3 in Housewares”
___Ask an employee about a made up product
___Go up to someone and pretend to know them and give them a hug

Nine points:
___Funniest card from Hallmark
___Awkward ointment
___A shoe box you didn’t buy

Ten points:
___Ask Hollister to turn down their music
___Ask where the men’s thongs are in American Eagle
___Duel with another customer with gift wrap
___Put blanket over shoulders and yell “I’m batman. Come Robin. To the Bat Cave!” and run off
___Go to Macy’s and have someone get made up by a make up artist
- ANSWER:
  i think this is really creative and funny and i think you will have lots of fun with what you have here.
QUESTION:
Which song to use for walking down the aisle / processional?
For the processional, I’m debating between Moby’s degenerate http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P51AR852Ts8
or going home by Mycheal Danna http://www.ilike.com/artist/Mychael+Danna/track/Going+Home?src=onebox (hit the little play symbol and you can sample the song

Are these not upbeat enough? I hate the wedding march, and all of the classical music I enjoy is more somber. So I think the traditional processional songs are out.
- ANSWER:
  I really like Moby..it’s very pretty. Here’s another idea for you: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0138TXUirAQ
QUESTION:
I want to start a small online business where I create photo slideshows for people and personalize it for them?
I remember the site beatgreets where you could send someone an ecard with a song that you liked, but it is not the same anymore and it would only be a small sample of the song, which I didn’t like.

I love music and I have plenty of it. I would love to start a business where I add people’s pictures to the beat of a full song for a special occasion for the person, wedding, anniversary, graduation, funeral, any occasion. For example, for an anniversary, the customer gives me different pictures of single poses as well as couple poses, let me know what their favorite colors are, along with other personalized information, tell me the name of the song that they want in the background or tell me the genre of music and I create a photo slideshow for them based off of their info.

I am not trying to get rich quick, but I do enjoy doing stuff like that and I would charge a minimal price for something that I think the person would enjoy for a lifetime as well as add a few bucks in my pocket.

I have no idea how to really get started with everything however. I have done the work before (I didn’t charge anything) and the people have really enjoyed the finished project. One big question is I don’t want to be sued by the recording artist for anything, is there anyway, I can insure that this doesn’t happen or possibly go around that. I think that was probably the problem that beatgreets ran into. I am definitely not trying to sell their work off of what I do for a customer. Is there anyway to even make it impossible for someone to download just the audio??

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
SERIOUS ANSWERS ONLY PLEASE!!!

I don’t want to be a part of any other business. I am not interested. I just want an answer to my question.
- ANSWER:
  Try Wondershare photo slideshow software,such as Photo Story Platinum, Movie Story or Flash Gallery Factory, I think they will meet your need.
  
  Official website:
  
  http://www.ourpix.com/index.html?page=106
  
  Hope it helps.
QUESTION:
HOW DO I “seriously” pursue becoming a “Stevie Nicks” Impersonator?
I promise.. I am Excellent at singing her songs and emulate Stevie beautifully..

It would mean the world to me to hear input or suggestions..

MY BASICS:
I live in San Diego County, California, am a full-time Event Coordinator and run a Karaoke Business “on the side”..

–I am frequently told I am “outstanding when singing & performing her music”!! Such a compliment and so much fun!

– Singing like Stevie comes very natural for me. I sing “VERY much” like her and mimic her very well. I LOVE her music so very much!

–Of all the “impersonator” websites I visited and have sampled the “sound” of the Stevie Nicks Impersonators, I can honestly say I am “noticeably better” than the ones I have heard thus far; boggles my mind to say that!

–Last year, I did an impromptu “Stevie Nicks” performance at a wedding (original entertainer canceled w/out notice). I was paid 0 to perform 3 of her songs that I do very well: “Silver Springs”, “Edge of Seventeen” and “Talk To Me”. I used my very “choice” karaoke CD versions for backup music/vocals and it was such a blast and an absolute Success!!

–I’m an outgoing, bubbly, yet very heartfelt person. Doing the Karaoke shows has provided me with “performance experience”, the ability to “read the crowd” and a “know-how” to produce a very entertaining show which makes the evening enjoyable for all..

Most frequently my requests are to sing “Stevie” songs, however many request my Alanis, Jewel or Dido tunes. A frequent comment is that my songs are especially enjoyed “because they are sung exactly as they remember them, or hear them on the radio”, etc..

IF I actually pursued this dream, I would create a Website, a Facebook Page, etc., and did notice a few websites that may help with advertising/promoting this type of service…. but..

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

This place has “given to me” answers I could not find elsewhere.. so I figured I would ask this question that burns in my soul and see what you good people may have to say or suggest for me.

Just maybe.. your input may give me that “nudge” to even THINK of making this pursuit a reality..

Thanks so much for reading this far..and take good care… Starr
- ANSWER:
  I think you should contact the agencies that hire celeb impersonators and send them a portfolio, you have to prepare with pics and audio, etc, but most important of all is, do you want to be an impersonator or a tribute artist? it’s different, sounds to me like a tribute artist would be more what you are looking for, but then again, I don’t know how far you want to take it, some agencies are very strict on how much you really look like the artist, and the way you sound is also important, I am a huge Elvis fan and have been in the Elvis community for years, I have lots of impersonator friends, these guys live and breath Elvis( they really look and sound like him, unlike those fat ones you see everywhere), it’s a commitment, but they love what they do.
  
  Find the Fleetwood Mac or Stevie Nicks community on Facebook and talk to them about there experiences, and how they all started. It will open a whole new world, and traveling the country and sometimes the world with this kind of career is a great thing. Hope this helps, good luck!
  
  hope this helps.
QUESTION:
Age 15 with potential to write a screenplay?
Hi.

I’m 15 and want to write a movie script.
Here’s a sample I wrote. Please reply what you really think.

(Note: The script is not in format because it doesn’t work on Yahoo)

Thank you.
—————

FADE IN:

INT.MEL’S BATHROOM – NIGHT

MEL OHELLI(32) a handsome police detective lies naked SMOKING A PIPE in a soapy steaming bathtub full of water. Muted music is booming from the upstairs neighbors bathroom.

MEL
(tired)
Uhh. Can’t anyone just shut-up
these days? (beat)

The music from upstairs TURNS OFF and a loud echoing voice is suddenly heard.

VOICE(V.O.)
I heard that.

Mel PERKS his head up. Theres nobody in the room, but the voice talks again.

VOICE(V.O.)
You seem to be bothered. (beat)
You should know, I’m god.

MEL
Hmm. You are god. Quite interesting
because I think I see a speaker in the
corner of the room.

ANGLE ON – Speaker.

VOICE
Don’t doubt me. I can talk through
anything and I’m…

MEL
(smiling)
…coming upstairs.

Mel with his robe already on walks out the door.

INT.BUILDING CORRIDOR – NIGHT

Mel knocks on JOSH COW(30)’s door. Josh answers the door.

MEL
Nice work. You’ve successfully tricked me
at first.

Josh looks at Mel confused.

JOSH
(confused)
What…are you talking about?

MEL
See. I have a built in sensor
called a brain. It can detect
certain stu…

Freezing in his tracks, Mel hears the voice again.

VOICE(V.O.)
You really think so? God can do
anything.

MEL
(frightened)
Do you hear a voice?

JOSH
(still confused)
No. You hear something?

MEL
(starts sweating)
Yeah. Gods talking to me.

There’s a flashes of lightning from the window and a crash of thunder which shatters the window and the wind picks up to which Mel and Josh drop to the ground.

GOD(V.O.)
(angry; both can hear
him)
You defied me. You stole the case
files. I’m angry!

CUT TO:

INT.MEL’S ROOM – MORNING

Mel wakes up from a scary dream. He takes a towel and wipes the sweat from his face.

INT.POLICE STATION – MORNING

Mel walks into a busy police station were he works. Walking to his office, he passes JOE WELLS(26), a goofy looking rookie who noticing Mel, runs up to him.

JOE
(running up to Mel excitedly)
Hey Melon, I just recieved a promotion!
I’m your partner!

MEL
(unexcited)
Oh boy. When was the wedding? I
forgot.

JOE
(confused)
What?

As they enter Mel’s office, Mel hears that voice again which makes him freeze in his tracks.

GOD
So, You liked the dream?

Mel turns white and falls on his knees. Heads turn towards Mel.

——

Good?
O.k. I got that “God” is always spelled with a capital ‘G’, and I should put a gender, but do I have potential, I mean this was just done quickly without an actual story base (usually called a ‘plot’). It was done just to show an example, and I’m young, so for my age and stage, any potential?
- ANSWER:
  Daniel, how can we judge your potential on one little excerpt of something that doesn’t have a plot? To be a successful screenwriter, you need to write great stories (properly structured) – and probably lots of them. A great story is what sells a script.
  
  Your sample here has a lot of faults. But that’s okay. You’re still learning. Of course you have potential – if you keep practising and working hard on improving. They say the average screenwriter writes around nine complete screenplays before he finds any kind of success.
  
  Here’s some stuff to work on:
  
  - Don’t describe someone as ‘handsome’ (producers want to cast handsome male leads anyway) but give us a description that reveals something about him as a person. Something we can see from his attitude, appearance or demeanour that helps build his character immediately. ‘Goofy looking rookie’ is good, although it’d be even better shortened to ‘goofy rookie’.
  
  - Concentrate on telling the story, not telling the camera where to point – camera directions don’t belong in spec scripts.
  
  - Don’t repeat yourself (like saying Joe runs up to him, and then having it in parentheticals as well, or saying that Mel hears a voice, and then having the VOICE say something).
  
  - Avoid parentheticals with dialogue unless it’s not clear how the dialogue should be said (e.g. it’s certainly not needed here: JOE (confused) What?)
  
  - Get rid of passive verbs (music is booming/there’s flashes of lightning) and make them active (music booms/lightning flashes).
  
  - Only include what the audience will see or hear. Can we tell Mel is a police detective when he’s lying in the bath? If you really wanted to show it in this scene, you’d need to drop some other kind of clue – maybe show his uniform and badge discarded on the floor.
  
  - Keep action lines concise – use a few effective words rather than a long rambling sentence. Consider your first line. This is better:
  MEL OHELLI (32, lean and mean) lies in a steaming bath, smoking a pipe. Music booms from the apartment above.
  Consider the first line of the police station scene. This is better:
  Mel hurries down a busy corridor to his office. (You don’t have to tell us he works here – he’s got an office so he must do!)
  
  Hope this helps. Keep at it and good luck!
QUESTION:
How much should I plan on spending?????????
I want a nice/cheap wedding. With real flowers, centerpieces, buffet, alcohol, band, cake, and that’s about it I suppose. The church is free since that is where we go and the pastor is paid by donation so you can give as much to him as you would like. The church is fairly nice as all churches usually are. It’s a simple white small town church. Stained glass windows (huge) and with not very many things hanging on the walls just a few crosses. So I’m thinking the church doesn’t need much in the way of decorations considering all that. All I want at the church is a few pew flowers on the end (not every pew just the one’s towards the front. Flowers on the banister going outside and maybe an archway which which I found one I like for rent for . So all in all I figure about 0-200 for the church plus whatever we give the pastor. How much should I expect to pay for the reception? If you had your reception at a hotel how much was it to rent out the banquet room? This would be the same hotel the guest are staying at. There will be 100 guest or less (more than likely less we both have smaller families) and we aren’t inviting too many friends. My fiance’s step-mom and her friend have all the dj equipment and she said that her friend and her would do the music for free (they have done other weddings in the past) so we probably won’t have to pay for the music. I really want real flowers even if that means getting cheaper flowers as opposed to roses or other expensive flowers. The centerpieces don’t have to be huge or anything like that just something nice. So about how much should we expect to spend? This is not including the dress, invites, ect. I found a lady that can do the invites and such for fairly cheap (less than a piece including response cards and envelopes). The colors we want are black, pink, and white. Not one specific pink just all shades of pink. I think it looks better that way and you don’t have to worry about matching everything to your sample. The bridesmaid dresses are going to be black as are the tux’s.
- ANSWER:
  It certainly depends where you are located. In NJ, hotels start around per person with a 100 person minimum. That’s the expensive part. Maybe you can find a hall that’s less expensive than a hotel? Or even a restaurant with a banquet room. Floral centerpieces can start ~ a piece from a florist but you can easily get bulk flowers and put them in nice dollar store or WalMart vases for less than a table. Try Grower’s Box (www.growersbox.com) or Proflowers (www.proflowers.com), I’ve used both with wild success! Your best bet is to call around and get some quotes.
  
  Good luck!

Wedding Music Samples

Frequently Asked Questions

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