What's Your Live Wedding Music Style?

There's just something about live music that lends a special energy to an event. A subdued string quartet or classical guitarist can lend an intimacy to your affair, while an orchestra or Top 40 group can be simply electric. Music sets the mood for any celebration, but perhaps no more so than a wedding reception. As you plan your important day, take time to consider what sort of mood you want to evoke at your celebration.

Intimate: A jazz quartet or a modern jazz ensemble can lend an intimate ambiance to your event. A wedding band that plays timeless standards along with more modern fare will lend a personal but festive atmosphere, especially if the band includes a jazz vocalist.

Latin: A salsa band for dancing or a mariachi band during cocktail hour can lend a sizzling Latin flair to your wedding reception and leave a lasting impression with your guests.

Nostalgic/Vintage: An orchestra or big band has enduring appeal. For a more retro vibe, a swing band portrays a mood that blends both modern and old time tempos.

Laid back: Attention Parrotheads! A cover band that features Jimmy Buffet or Beach Boys music can give a breezy Margaritaville or laid-back surf style to your celebration.

Boot Stompin': To paraphrase Willie Nelson, if your friends have always been cowboys, a hot country act will give your reception a down-home sensibility and keep your guests entertained.

World Beat: If you connect with Bob Marley's message of "One Love," your wedding day is the perfect time to express that sentiment with your live wedding music choice. Consider a reggae or afro-Cuban group. Your wedding reception entertainment is also a great way to showcase your heritage.  For some Emerald Isle appeal, nothing beats an authentic Celtic band.

Subdued: If you prefer a low-key atmosphere, it's okay to have quiet music during your reception. A classic guitarist or pianist will be unobtrusive but memorable.

Classical: Always tasteful, classical music lends a sense of refinement and perhaps even a bit of drama to your wedding reception. Your guest will find a string quartet or harpist simply enchanting.

Urban/R&B: If you plan on dancing the night away, a Motown or funk cover band will keep your guests out of their chairs and on the dance floor no matter what decade they were born in.

From the food to the favors, you've chosen all the elements of your wedding to reflect your personality. The wedding music you choose will also speak volumes about your personal style.