What Stands Out?

There are certain things we notice as wedding that make the event special and more pleasurable to attend. Here are some of my recent observations:

Special music while guest are being seated really helps set the mood. A wedding I attended two weeks ago included a violinist playing a variety of beautiful music, not all of it traditional wedding songs. Ask your performer for suggestions if you are not well versed in ceremony music. Bridesmaids and the two mothers lit a number of candles at the altar, while the violin, accompanied occasionally by the organ, set the mood for the upcoming nuptials. A soloist sang, “The Lord’s Prayer” during the lighting of the unity candle. Very appropriate and very moving. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house.

At the reception, if at all possible, don’t have the bar and the music in separate rooms. You are dividing the guests, some of which are missing special dances or announcements as they wait for their drinks. If there is a concern about noise level and making sure your guests can talk to one another without shouting, speak to your performer about volume levels and expectations. Play music for all age groups to get the largest number of your guests involved.

At this particular wedding, there were quite a few smaller children in attendance. Glow sticks that can be attached to one another to make necklaces and other items were provided for the kids at the reception. It was a great, non-messy way to keep them happy and busy, as well as working for all age levels.

What are some of the things that stand out in your mind from the weddings and receptions you have attended in the past?