If you haven’t already booked your musicians then pick up a copy of The Bride’s Guide to Musicians…Live Wedding Music Made Easy and Affordable by Anne Roos (Hal Leonard Books, $25; available on amazon.com). Ms. Roos, an accomplished musician who has performed at weddings for over 25 years, provides one of the most comprehensive guides I’ve ever come across. It details everything you need to know about wedding music, and if you think your budget will allow only a DJ, then think again. Ms. Roos offers plenty of sound advice and great tips on how to incorporate live music into your ceremony and reception. You’ll learn how to audition your musicians, how to spot overpriced ones and how to recognize a bargain. You’ll also discover how to work with musicians on selecting songs that reflect your personality and theme. There are checklists, sample contracts, and hundreds of song ideas for both the ceremony and reception. Here are just a few favorite popular and country love songs to consider (an ever-changing list for sure!):
- “Always on My Mind” (W. Thompson, M. James and J. Christopher)
- “Butterfly Kisses (B. Carlisle and R. Thomas)
- “Fields of Gold” (Sting)
- “From This Moment On” (Shania Twain and R.J. Lange)
- “Have I Told You Lately” (Van Morrison)
- “Hero” (Enrique Iglesias, P. Barry and M. Taylor)
- “Just the Way You Are” (Billy Joel)
- “Open Arms” (S. Perry and J. Cain)
- “She’s Got a Way” (Billy Joel)
- “The Wedding Song” (Noel Paul Stookey)
- “When I Said I Do” (C. Black)
- “Wonderful Tonight” (Eric Clapton)
- “You’re Still the One” (Shania Twain and R. J. Lange)
I’d love to know what some of your favorite first-dance tunes are! By the way, enjoy the Oscars this Sunday. I can’t wait to see who’ll be wearing gowns from bridal designers and red-carpet faves Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier, Reem Acra, Romona Keveza, Oscar de la Renta, Angel Sanchez and Badgley Mischka. Break out the popcorn…it should be a fun show!
—Diane Forden
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