So you are now married, have come through the beautiful Wedding Ceremony, the photographer's creative pictures, the venue's best meal and are ready to celebrate the night away with all your guests - make sure you choose the right kind of Wedding Band or Wedding D.J. for your Reception!
A Wedding Band or D.J. can make the evening go with a swing or can ruin the whole atmosphere if not chosen correctly! Again you must go back to the kind of celebration you are looking for - it is to be a wild party or is it to be subtle background music? Although you choose the kind of celebration you want, remember here to look at the guests you are inviting as their participation in the entertainment is crucial! There's no point in hiring the best Swing Band around if no one knows how to dance to the music, or hiring a Jazz Band because your dad likes jazz, but no one else does, or hiring a D.J. who plays dance music if all of your family guests are over the age of 60!
You need to hear a Band or D.J. play, preferably at a Wedding, to decide if they are right for you! Personal recommendations of friends or family who have heard the Band or D.J. are useful too. When you call a band or D.J. to make enquires, ask where they are next playing and if you can come and hear them - there is no other substitute for deciding if this is the right type of music for your special Wedding! If you like the Band or D.J., ask,
What they charge?
How long they play for?
How much of a break will they take?
How varied can they make the music if what they are playing doesn't seem to be inticing people onto the dancefloor?
Will they play some 'Wedding' games to get the crowd mixing?
Will they arrange for the throwing of the bouquet?
How much of an input can you have into which songs they play e.g. can you give them a playlist of favourite songs?
Do they allow guests to come and sing?
One other important thing to do once you have chosen your band or D.J., is not only to give them a note of the First Dance song, but to give them a list of the names of the Bridal Party so they can call people to the floor by name e.g. Can we now have the Chief Bridesmaid and Best Man, Laura and John, on the dancefloor? It just makes people feel included and adds a personal touch to the evening.
Check out our Wedding Reception Music Advice for more ideas and tips on music on your Special Day and use our Bands and D.J.s pages to help you choose your entertainment for your special Glasgow Wedding Reception.
Wednesday 10 February 2010
Monday 14 December 2009
Renfrewshire's Wedding Fayre
Renrewshire's First Wedding Fayre in The Glynhill Hotel will take place on Sunday 7th March 2010 with free entry for all Brides and Grooms. There will be exhibitors, demonstrations and talks from Industry experts as well as a Photography competition and giveaways!! Get the date in your Diary!!!!!
Tuesday 24 February 2009
D.I.Y. Invitations
With the general tightening of budgets in the current climate, why not save some money and make your own unique and personal Wedding Invitations? If you have access to a PC and a printer, you're good to go with any design you choose.
Think about easy to use things:
- use clip art from your Word or Microsoft Application, there's also lots of free clip art available on-line, and
most Office packages will give you an option for designing invitations - draw something yourself and scan it in for a really personal touch to be really simple, just use your initials, try combining them using a drawing package for a truly romantic touch
- use a photo of the two of you, perhaps one from your Engagement or a really romantic or fun one - experiment with making the image black and white
- use a quotation or poem you both love, written in a scrolling font for the front of the card. Check out some Poems at www.theglasgowgirlsweddingguide.com
- buy some good quality card to print out on
- add some ribbons to the invitation in your themed colours if you want, or use some glue-on diamontees
- who says invitations have to be folded over - go for a scroll or big style business card or postcard to be a little different
- If all else fails, go and use the photo machine at Boots or Klick, where you can upload a photo, choose from existing design templates and enter your Wedding details.
- Ask guests to RSVP by e-mail thus saving on putting in RSVP cards and envelopes!
- For a fun, finishing touch - although it is a little more expensive than ordinary postage - get stamps made with your pictures on them, otherwise known as 'smilers'! Log onto www.royalmail.com and choose the banner 'personalise your stamps', all you have to do is upload a photo of you, choose a stamp design - they can be rectangular or circular for something a bit different - and order! It costs around £7.42 for 10 stamps, £13.50 for 20 first class!
Tuesday 3 February 2009
Wedding Reception Music
Music is essential to create the right mood and atmosphere for your special Wedding Day. It deserves the same careful thought and planning as you would give to other elements of your Glasgow Wedding.
Drinks Reception
Live music to welcome guests when they arrive at the Wedding reception is a great idea. The type of music you choose to have at this point will depend on the theme and location of your wedding. If you are having a summer wedding or you are having the drinks reception outside or in a marquee then a jazz band would be ideal to get your guests in that party mood.
A more traditional option would be classical music played by a string quartet or pianist. Other classical instruments that can create a more refined ambience are harp and violin, and classical guitar.
Whatever instruments you choose, ensure that your musicians are given pride of place where they can be heard and appreciated, not stuck in a corner (as often happens) where conversation drowns them out. I would advise against having a singer at this point, as singing often demands a captive audience. Music on its own compliments and sparks conversation, without you having to whip out your megaphone to exchange pleasantries with the other guests.
During the Meal
Live music during a meal is a nice touch but often goes unappreciated by guests. A piano or string quartet will, in general, not be heard over good conversation. If you want music at this time, assemble some suitable music on to CDs to be played over the hotel PA system.
An exception to this would be to have musicians visiting each table and playing requests for the guests. This provides a talking point and again will compliment the conversation rather than compete with it, although it will be an expensive option!
Dancing the Night Away
The ceremony is over, you remembered where to walk, when to smile, what to say, the sun shone for the photographs, you didn't spill any wine on your dress and the speeches are finally over without too much embarrassment! Its time to let your hair down and PARTY!
Strangely, people often don't give the music at their reception the thought it deserves. Too many couples are disappointed with unprofessional bands singing out of tune or DJs who don't have enough sound gear or any ABBA CDs! The music at your reception is what most guests will remember and talk about for years to come. The last thing you want is to end the days celebrations with an ageing one-man-band wannabe rockstar belting out a medley of Cliff Richard classics. You want to leave the guests with a good lasting impression.
Top tips for great music at your Reception:
1. Decide on the best type of music to have. Most couples decide on a traditional style wedding band playing music from the 60s up to the present day. This should get everyone from grannies to kids up dancing. You and your partner may love jazz but will everyone be able to dance to it?
2. Source bands by searching http://www.theglasgowgirlsweddingguide.com/ .Try and get the best band that you can afford. As ever, you get what you pay for! Although the atmosphere from a live band is great, a DJ is better than a bad band.
3. Go and listen to a band before you book them. If possible see them play at a Wedding rather than just in a pub as the kind of music they play will be different. If you can't see the band perform, ask them to send you a CD.
4. If you are having a DJ after a band, get him to set up before the band finishes so that he can start his music and lights as soon as the band finish their set. That way, no atmosphere is lost while the band take down their gear and the DJ assembles his.
5. Arrange for some of the guests to be in charge of starting the dancing. Family or bridesmaids are usually best for this. Often the difference between an empty dancefloor and the whole room hopping is a few brave guests getting their friends up to dance.
6. Ensure that the band or DJ you book is reliable and experienced. This is your wedding day with no room for problems. The band should be able to play for at least 3 hours.
7. The band or DJ should be familiar with the room that the reception is in, as they may need extra gear for big or oddly shaped rooms.
8. Avoid bands or DJs that don't give a polished performance. Awkward silences or performers that are too way out embarrass guests.
9. If you want a special song for your first dance or have any song requests, give the band plenty of notice so they can learn it.
Drinks Reception
Live music to welcome guests when they arrive at the Wedding reception is a great idea. The type of music you choose to have at this point will depend on the theme and location of your wedding. If you are having a summer wedding or you are having the drinks reception outside or in a marquee then a jazz band would be ideal to get your guests in that party mood.
A more traditional option would be classical music played by a string quartet or pianist. Other classical instruments that can create a more refined ambience are harp and violin, and classical guitar.
Whatever instruments you choose, ensure that your musicians are given pride of place where they can be heard and appreciated, not stuck in a corner (as often happens) where conversation drowns them out. I would advise against having a singer at this point, as singing often demands a captive audience. Music on its own compliments and sparks conversation, without you having to whip out your megaphone to exchange pleasantries with the other guests.
During the Meal
Live music during a meal is a nice touch but often goes unappreciated by guests. A piano or string quartet will, in general, not be heard over good conversation. If you want music at this time, assemble some suitable music on to CDs to be played over the hotel PA system.
An exception to this would be to have musicians visiting each table and playing requests for the guests. This provides a talking point and again will compliment the conversation rather than compete with it, although it will be an expensive option!
Dancing the Night Away
The ceremony is over, you remembered where to walk, when to smile, what to say, the sun shone for the photographs, you didn't spill any wine on your dress and the speeches are finally over without too much embarrassment! Its time to let your hair down and PARTY!
Strangely, people often don't give the music at their reception the thought it deserves. Too many couples are disappointed with unprofessional bands singing out of tune or DJs who don't have enough sound gear or any ABBA CDs! The music at your reception is what most guests will remember and talk about for years to come. The last thing you want is to end the days celebrations with an ageing one-man-band wannabe rockstar belting out a medley of Cliff Richard classics. You want to leave the guests with a good lasting impression.
Top tips for great music at your Reception:
1. Decide on the best type of music to have. Most couples decide on a traditional style wedding band playing music from the 60s up to the present day. This should get everyone from grannies to kids up dancing. You and your partner may love jazz but will everyone be able to dance to it?
2. Source bands by searching http://www.theglasgowgirlsweddingguide.com/ .Try and get the best band that you can afford. As ever, you get what you pay for! Although the atmosphere from a live band is great, a DJ is better than a bad band.
3. Go and listen to a band before you book them. If possible see them play at a Wedding rather than just in a pub as the kind of music they play will be different. If you can't see the band perform, ask them to send you a CD.
4. If you are having a DJ after a band, get him to set up before the band finishes so that he can start his music and lights as soon as the band finish their set. That way, no atmosphere is lost while the band take down their gear and the DJ assembles his.
5. Arrange for some of the guests to be in charge of starting the dancing. Family or bridesmaids are usually best for this. Often the difference between an empty dancefloor and the whole room hopping is a few brave guests getting their friends up to dance.
6. Ensure that the band or DJ you book is reliable and experienced. This is your wedding day with no room for problems. The band should be able to play for at least 3 hours.
7. The band or DJ should be familiar with the room that the reception is in, as they may need extra gear for big or oddly shaped rooms.
8. Avoid bands or DJs that don't give a polished performance. Awkward silences or performers that are too way out embarrass guests.
9. If you want a special song for your first dance or have any song requests, give the band plenty of notice so they can learn it.
The Receiving Line
It has long been a Wedding tradition to have a formal receiving line at Weddings. This custom originated to allow the Mother of the Bride, traditionally the hostess, to personally welcome the guests to the reception. Another good reason though to have a receiving line as newlyweds, is it is one of the ways you can introduce your parents to your to your friends and in-laws to their new families. In a way, it can be a highly organised ice-breaker for those larger than average family Weddings as well as giving you both a great chance to thank your guests personally for coming to your Wedding.
Only Chance to Talk to You
Your receiving line may also be the only time some of your guests get to speak to you during your reception, especially if the Wedding is a large one. Today’s Wedding etiquette suggests that a receiving line should be used for Weddings with more than 50 guests.
A receiving line can save you time later on when you would have to make your way round the tables to speak to and thank your guests. Most couples coment on how quickly their Wedding Day goes by and your reception is for your enjoyment as well as your guests! Instead of the normal ‘table hopping’ and thanking guests all night, you will have done this already on the receiving line and can hit the dance floor much sooner!
The Layout and Etiquette of the Receiving Line
The following list is classed as the traditional way of placing the Wedding party in the receiving line, although in this day and age of often different family permutations, you should choose a set-up with which you and everyone else is comfortable:
• Bride’s Mother
• Bride’s Father
• Groom’s Mother
• Groom’s Father
• The Bride
• The Groom
• Maid of Honour
• Best Man
• Bridesmaids
There is no reason for your best man or bridesmaids to be in the receiving line if you don’t want them to. In fact, they could be given the task of making sure your guests are aware of where they are to go and they can also help in double checking that all is running smooth as it should be. This in turns takes away the stress of you and your spouse having to worry about those of your guests that you have already spoken to in the line. Children are generally not in the receiving line.
If any of the parents are divorced and you still wish to have them in your receiving line it is probably best to keep them apart while standing next to any new spouses. There are many ways you can deal with divorced parents. You could choose to just have the mothers in the line or separate each parent with a bridesmaid or your maid of honour. This will give a clear indication to everybody that they are no longer a couple. Tip: The Bridesmaid ‘buffer’ could also be used for step parents if you are intending to have them in the receiving line. Check out http://www.theglasgowgirlsweddingguide.com/ for advice on top table arrangements for fragmented families).
Many couples choose to get around awkward arrangements by having the receiving line at the church doors while the guests are coming out, and having only the Bride and Groom greet guests. This has the advantage of guests being immediately able to congratulate you on your becoming husband and wife.
How Long For the Guests to Go Through the Line
Depending on how many guests you are having attending your Wedding you may want to work out approximately how long it will taken for them all to greet you and pass on their wishes. As a rough guide, if you are having 200 guests you should allow a minimum of 45 minutes to an hour. Take into account if you are having a sit down meal what time your venue wants you all to be seated.
You can keep the receiving line flowing along by sticking to the bare minimum of brief greetings that warm and sincere. You can always catch up for longer conversations during your reception. Remember you will always get great uncle Bob who will stand longer than others and show no signs of wanting to move along.
Double check with the venue that you will have the room to hold a receiving line and make sure it is somewhere that people will not be bunched up or standing outside while waiting their turn. Have drinks and/or hors d'oeuvres ready to be served to your guests once they have passed through the receiving line and while they mingle with each other it may be a good idea to have some soft music playing in the background.
Only Chance to Talk to You
Your receiving line may also be the only time some of your guests get to speak to you during your reception, especially if the Wedding is a large one. Today’s Wedding etiquette suggests that a receiving line should be used for Weddings with more than 50 guests.
A receiving line can save you time later on when you would have to make your way round the tables to speak to and thank your guests. Most couples coment on how quickly their Wedding Day goes by and your reception is for your enjoyment as well as your guests! Instead of the normal ‘table hopping’ and thanking guests all night, you will have done this already on the receiving line and can hit the dance floor much sooner!
The Layout and Etiquette of the Receiving Line
The following list is classed as the traditional way of placing the Wedding party in the receiving line, although in this day and age of often different family permutations, you should choose a set-up with which you and everyone else is comfortable:
• Bride’s Mother
• Bride’s Father
• Groom’s Mother
• Groom’s Father
• The Bride
• The Groom
• Maid of Honour
• Best Man
• Bridesmaids
There is no reason for your best man or bridesmaids to be in the receiving line if you don’t want them to. In fact, they could be given the task of making sure your guests are aware of where they are to go and they can also help in double checking that all is running smooth as it should be. This in turns takes away the stress of you and your spouse having to worry about those of your guests that you have already spoken to in the line. Children are generally not in the receiving line.
If any of the parents are divorced and you still wish to have them in your receiving line it is probably best to keep them apart while standing next to any new spouses. There are many ways you can deal with divorced parents. You could choose to just have the mothers in the line or separate each parent with a bridesmaid or your maid of honour. This will give a clear indication to everybody that they are no longer a couple. Tip: The Bridesmaid ‘buffer’ could also be used for step parents if you are intending to have them in the receiving line. Check out http://www.theglasgowgirlsweddingguide.com/ for advice on top table arrangements for fragmented families).
Many couples choose to get around awkward arrangements by having the receiving line at the church doors while the guests are coming out, and having only the Bride and Groom greet guests. This has the advantage of guests being immediately able to congratulate you on your becoming husband and wife.
How Long For the Guests to Go Through the Line
Depending on how many guests you are having attending your Wedding you may want to work out approximately how long it will taken for them all to greet you and pass on their wishes. As a rough guide, if you are having 200 guests you should allow a minimum of 45 minutes to an hour. Take into account if you are having a sit down meal what time your venue wants you all to be seated.
You can keep the receiving line flowing along by sticking to the bare minimum of brief greetings that warm and sincere. You can always catch up for longer conversations during your reception. Remember you will always get great uncle Bob who will stand longer than others and show no signs of wanting to move along.
Double check with the venue that you will have the room to hold a receiving line and make sure it is somewhere that people will not be bunched up or standing outside while waiting their turn. Have drinks and/or hors d'oeuvres ready to be served to your guests once they have passed through the receiving line and while they mingle with each other it may be a good idea to have some soft music playing in the background.
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