Wedding Music: Pros and Cons of Choosing a DJ or Wedding Band

How to Decide Between a Wedding Band and a DJ

By Nina Callaway, About.com Guide

 

Having the right music at your reception is essential to setting the mood, and making sure people have fun. But how do you know whether to hire a wedding band or DJ? Here are the pros and cons of each.

Wedding Band Pros

• There truly is nothing like live music, which can energize the crowd, and get people more excited for dancing
  
  
• Odds are, the sound quality will be better than with a DJ
  
  
• Musicians can change the tempo of songs so as to accommodate some fancy dance moves or a tired fiancé
  
  
• A specific type of band can truly complete a wedding theme. (For example, a 1930s-themed wedding and a swing band, an Irish wedding and a Celtic band, or fairytale wedding with an orchestra)

Wedding Band Cons

• For many, the cost of hiring a wedding band is prohibitive. At a cost of between $2000 and $20,000 (and up!), you'll want to know that you've found the most ideal group for your wedding ever
  
  
• Some wedding bands can really only play one sound, and have a hard time switching genres or styles. You might find yourself with one that is either too classical, too jazzy, or just plain too wedding-band-like. And, if you've got a favorite song, they may not be able to play it well
  
  
• Some bands have only one volume: loud. If you've got a small reception venue, a wedding band might overpower it
  
  
• Those musicians are going to need to take breaks; when the music stops, most will turn on a CD for you, but it won't have the same energy as live music does

DJ Pros

• Your first dance song can be sung by the artist that made you fall in love, rather than a pale imitation
  
  
• Most DJs have libraries of hundreds or even thousands of songs. That means they'll have music that your friends will like, as well as songs for Aunt Bettie's generation
  
  
• Songs can quickly segue from great dance numbers to the perfect "cutting the cake song" or background music as someone makes a toast
  
  
• You shouldn't have to have any break in the music at all

DJ Cons

• Beware of the bored DJ or worse, the one on autopilot. Because many wedding DJs have their routines down pat, they can get bored. This might mean that they make terrible jokes or try to ham it up between songs. Or, it might mean they are doing everything automatically. I've seen an autopilot DJ play songs from the "do not play list", ask for the bride's father to make a toast even though he wasn't there, and announce a couple as Mr. and Mrs. Hisfirstname Hislastname even though the bride didn't change her name and they specifically asked to be announced in a different way! Make sure you meet with the person who will actually be performing your wedding. See if you've got a vibe that meshes, and if he/she seems excited about putting together a playlist specifically for your event

Above all, try to go and see the wedding band or DJ actually performing to know if they're truly right for you. No, you don't need to crash a wedding at someone's house, but if they're playing a reception at an event space, or a club, peek your head in the back unobtrusively and watch for their style and vibe. Frequently a DJ or band leader will act as the MC of a wedding reception, which means you'll need them to be entertaining but not annoying, polished, friendly, and charismatic.

 

 

XOXO

Source.

Wedding Receptions - The Do Not Play List

The Worst Wedding Songs

By Nina Callaway, About.com Guide

 

Couples spend lots of time thinking of the perfect first dance song, or their favorite tunes that are "must plays." But if you're working with a DJ or cover band, you'll want to spend some time thinking about the worst wedding songs and putting together your Do Not Play list. After all, there's nothing worse than hearing some creepy breakup song during a romantic wedding, even if it is a Top 40 hit. Here's what's on my personal Don't Play List:

Cheesy Group Dance Numbers

Sure, DJs love these songs. They're great for entertaining kids, and they get people on the dance floor. But there's absolutely nothing elegant, sophisticated, or hip about them. And they might just send your friends off the dance floor permanently:

• Chicken Dance
• Macarena
• Conga
• YMCA
• Hokey Pokey
• Locomotion
• Cha Cha Slide
• Limbo Rock

In fact, just putting this list together makes me groan out loud with the memories of all the times I've had to endure these songs at weddings. Just say no to the Macarena!

Strange Break-up Songs and Other Mood Killers

A beautiful bride and groom take the floor for their first dance. As you hear the music start, you ready your tissues for the romantic sight you're about to see. But hold on just a second. What's that they're playing? This song is all about a breakup! There's nothing romantic in dancing at your wedding to a song about breaking up!

• Every Breath You Take – Police (Unless you're marrying your creepy stalker, this is not a romantic song!)
• I will Always Love You – Dolly Parton/ Whitney Houston (It's about a break up. Please, no talk of "bittersweet memories" at your wedding.)
• Lips of an Angel – Hinder (The angel's great lips are enough to make him think about cheating on his girlfriend).
• My Heart Will Go On – Celine Dion (She's singing the song to her dead boyfriend. Dead and weddings don't mix that well.)
• Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton (Yet another death song I've heard at too many weddings. I know there's the life insurance policy, but it's a little too early to be talking about death, don't you think?)
• I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor. (Not only have I heard this at a million weddings, but I've also seen it on lists of "popular wedding songs!" People, it's a song about surviving a horrible breakup! Don't play this at your wedding.)
• Jesse's Girl – Rick Springfield (Go ahead. Fuel rumors that the bride is sleeping/has slept/will sleep with the Best Man.)
• White Wedding – Billy Idol (Idol himself says that the song is about hating his sister's fiancé.)
• Love Stinks, You Gave Love A Bad Name, Tainted Love (all self explanatory).

Just Plain Bad

I'm sure after I write this list, I'm going to get tons of emails saying "How could you say XYZ was bad??? I love that song!" That's fine that you love it, I don't. So it's on my "do not play list." Hopefully this list will spark some ideas for you about hated songs.

• Celebration – Kool and the Gang
• Honky Tonk Badonkadonk – Trace Adkins
• Who Let the Dogs Out – Baha Men
• Everybody (Have Fun Tonight) – Wang Chung
• Tequila – The Champs
• Cuts Like a Knife – Bryan Adams
• Dude Looks Like a Lady - Aerosmith
• My Humps – Black Eyed Peas

 

XOXO

Source.

World Music Songs for Weddings

Romantic Songs from Around the Globe

By Megan Romer, About.com Guide

 

World music fans often find themselves in a bit of a jam when they're planning the music for their wedding - they want to express their unique taste in music, but also want to keep the music sweet and romantic. These ten songs will surely add a touch of romance, as well as some fabulous global flavor, to your wedding.

Samite - 'Ngwino Rukundo'

"Come, come my love, may you live forever..."

This tearjerkingly sweet number from Ugandan musician Samite is hard to resist. Though it was recorded in the mid-90s (the heyday of overly synth-y Afropop), Samite kept it simple and acoustic, and the result is a timeless love song with great African rhythms and bilingual lyrics.

 

Sara Tavares - 'One Love'

"I know we'll understand each other if we speak love..."

There's a fine line between sweet and ooey-gooey, and Sara Tavares knows exactly how to stay on the correct side of that line. Bouncing back and forth between English and Portuguese, the lyrics are genuinely romantic and delivered with just enough sexiness to make them real. The tempo is great for medium-slow dancing, and the rhythms will add a beachy tone to your reception.

 

Bob Marley - 'Mellow Mood'

"I've got love, darlin', love sweet love, darlin'"

"Mellow Mood" is, in my opinion, the most romantic song Bob Marley ever wrote, and possibly one of the greatest reggae songs of all time. It definitely borders on the sultry, but it's still plenty Grandma-friendly.

 

Edith Piaf - 'La Vie en Rose'

"Quand il me prend dans ses bras, il me parle tout bas, je vois la vie en rose" (When he holds me in his arms, he speaks very low, I see life as rose-colored)

Ah, Edith Piaf. Though true love evaded her for most of her tragic life, she could still deliver it musically. "La Vie en Rose" is practically the gold standard of love songs and, in my humble opinion, should absolutely make an aural appearance at every wedding.

 

Paolo Conte - 'Via Con Me'

"It's wonderful, it's wonderful, it's wonderful, I dream of you. Chips, chips. Do-do-do-do-do."

This quirky little love song always seems to make an appearance in European romantic comedies (which are less romantic and more comedic than American ones, methinks), but definitely adds a darkly sweet European flavor to any occasion. The swingy beat is great for dancing, too.

 

Israel Kamakawiwo'ole - 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World'

"The dreams that you dream of, dreams really do come true."

Even the most hard-hearted romance-hater has a hard time resisting this modern classic from Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, even if they won't admit it. It's pretty much just plain beautiful. This one would make a great first wedding dance song, especially since unlike many of the songs on this list, you'll hear it frequently enough to say, "Aww, honey, it's our song!" It's a wedding, people, you're allowed to be a little bit sappy.

 

Yungchen Lhamo - 'Happiness Is...'

I don't speak the Tibetan language, but I've been told by people who know these sorts of things that this song is, lyrically, kind of Charlie Brown-meets-Zen Buddhism. Yungchen Lhamo's voice is quite haunting, but very beautiful, and would make a really nice addition to the soundtrack of a global-themed wedding.

 

Balfa Brothers - 'Parlez-Nous a Boire'

"Parlez-nous a boire, et pas de mariage; toujours en regrettant nos jolis temps passes" (Talk to us about drinking, not about marriage; we'll always be missing the good times we had.)

A major hallmark of Cajun culture is a wry sense of humor, which is probably why "Parlez-Nous a Boire" has been a staple at Cajun weddings for decades. The song pokes light-hearted fun at marriage, from beginning to end. It's pretty funny (and totally harmless), and if you have a naughty sense of humor yourself, it'll balance out the sappy-sweet songs. Plus, it's a great dance tune, so hopefully it'll get everyone out of their seats.

 

Ladysmith Black Mambazo - 'Hello My Baby'

"Hey, baby, hey... Hey, beautiful girl."

Ladysmith Black Mambazo primarily perform gospel and other holy music, but a lot of people would argue that love songs are pretty sacred as well... especially when they've heard this doozy! Unless you're advanced in the practice of finding the beat, you might not want to make this one your first dance, simply because it's a cappella and it changes tempo mid-tune. It's totally sweet, though, and really has that classic Ladysmith sound, so it's definitely worth adding to the roster.

 

Jay Ungar & Molly Mason - 'The Lovers' Waltz'

Jay Ungar is perhaps best known for his composition "Ashokan Farewell", which provided the softly intense background music for the Ken Burns documentary The Civil War. "The Lovers' Waltz", though wordless, has a similar feeling, but with an ethereal strain of romance running through it. It takes a great composer to make an instrumental tune so emotive, and Ungar is definitely that. With elements of folk, celtic music and Cajun music, this tune would make a great first (or last) waltz.

 

 

XOXO

Source.

Top Ten Popular and Traditional Father-Daughter Wedding Dance Songs

By Wayne Parker, About.com Guide

 

Looking for a traditional or popular wedding dance song for a bride and her father? This list includes songs from pop artists and popular singers over the last several years.

1. Unforgettable

You can't listen to Natalie Cole's version of her father's hit Unforgettable without feeling the warm affection between a father and a daughter. And it is easy to dance to as well.

 

2. How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)

This James Taylor classic hit is a great but less often used wedding dance choice. Many dads remember it from their youth and it is a lot of fun to dance to. This is not your classic waltz, but it is still memorable.

 

3. You Are So Beautiful To Me

This great tune by Joe Cocker is a little older, but is still familiar to most dads and brides. It is a good slow song that brings tears and tender emotions.

 

4. Can You Feel the Love Tonight?

This classic from "The Lion King" sung ny Elton John often isn't thought of as a father daughter wedding dance song, but it has become more and more popular in recent years.

 

5. You Are the Wind Beneath My Wings

The Bette Midler classic again is not usually the first father-daughter wedding song, but has a great message from a daughter to her dad. And with a little more upbeat tempo, it can be fun to dance to.

 

6. What a Wonderful World

This immensely popular song from jazz great Louis Armstong is one loved by brides and dads alike. The popularity of this song was resurrected by the famous chick-flick Sleepless in Seattle has been heard in a romantic setting by thousands of brides in the movie and other settings. A nice song to dance to.

 

7. Dancing on Daddy's Shoes

Another older song by Leon Redbone, Dancing on Daddy's Shoes is a sweet and fun song for a wedding reception. Check it out if you are not familiar with it; the song will certainly grow on you.

 

8. The Way You Look Tonight

This famous song popularized in the 60's by Tony Bennett has been extremely popular at weddings for years. Soft, smooth tones of the great crooner will be a tender moment at any wedding reception.

 

9. My Girl

An oldie but goodie, The Temptation's My Girl is a wedding classic. A ton of fun to dance to, this one is always popular with dads and brides.

 

10. Isn't She Lovely

Stevie Wonder's classic song Isn't She Lovely is a great dance song for fathers and daughters. It crosses generations and cultural backgrounds. And it is a really peppy song for dancing.

 

 

XOXO

Source.

Top Ten Country Western Wedding Dance Songs for Dads and Daughters

By Wayne Parker, About.com Guide

 

Is your daughter having a country themed wedding, or do you both just like country music? Here is a list of all-time favorite country songs to which you and your daughter can dance at the reception.

1. Butterfly Kisses

Bob Carlisle's Butterfly Kisses is one of the all-time favorites. The message is loved by dads and daughters alike and the tempo makes dancing easy.

 

2. I Loved her First

What a great song for a father-daughter wedding dance! By the country/pop group Heartland, this song will melt the heart of daughter, father and every onlooker.

 

3. My Little Girl

The consummate wedding dance song that is sung from the father's perspective, Steve Kirwan's My Little Girl is a gentle, sweet song with a dad reflecting on his experiences as his little girl's daddy.

 

4. Stealing Cinderella

Probably one of the newer country songs that makes a great father-daughter wedding dance piece, Chuck Wicks' top country song is a real winner. Fun beat, slow enough to dance to together and memorable lyrics make this one a favorite.

 

5. My Little Girl

Tim McGraw is one of my favorite country artists and this ballad will be a favorite for anyone who likes country music. And the tempo is such that it is pretty easy to dance to.

 

6. I Hope You Dance

A slow, rich country ballad that speaks to a father's inspiration for his daughter's success, Lee Ann Womack's I Hope You Dance will melt the heart of many wedding goers. This is another song that is slow and easy to dance.

 

7. Daddy's Little Girl

Another ballad-like song from Kippi Brannon, this piece is rich and emotional, reminiscing about the bride's growing up years with her dad and the time they spent together.

8. Daddy's Hands

Holly Dunn performs this song that walks down Memory Lane with a dad as she grew up on the farm. This is a great song for rural dads and daughters.

 

9. An Angel to Me

This is a fun country song performed by Loxsen Morre. It is an easy county waltz and the lyrics are sweet and tender.

 

10. Daddy's Girl

Red Sovine was a country singer back when "country was." Think Johnny Cash and Conway Twitty. If you like the twang of classic country, then you might want to consider this one for the reception. It's a little more upbeat than most of these other country songs, so dancing might take a little more skill and energy but it is a fun one.

 

 

XOXO

Source

 

Top Ten Father-Daughter Wedding Dance Songs

By Wayne Parker, About.com Guide

 

Is there a more emotional moment in a father's or a daughter's life than when they dance at her wedding or reception? Maybe, but I can't think of one. Here are, based on my informal survey of other fathers of the bride, the top songs for that father-daughter dance at the wedding celebration.

If you are looking for father-daughter wedding dance songs with a specific theme, check out our list of country wedding dance songs and our list of favorite traditional wedding dance songs as well.

1. Butterfly Kisses
Bob Carlisle's Butterfly Kisses is one of the all-time favorites. The message is loved by dads and daughters alike and the tempo makes dancing easy.

2. When Angels Fly
When Angels Fly is a new addition to our top ten list of father-daughter wedding songs. Performed by Tony Ransom & The Heavenly Light Orchestra, it is at once inspiring and memorable.

3. I Loved Her First
What a great song for a father-daughter wedding dance! By the country/pop group Heartland, this song will melt the heart of daughter, father and every onlooker.

4. Through the Years
Through the Years by Kenny Rogers is a timeless song of love and is a favorite of many of my friends. It is a little bit country, which appeals to many dads and daughters, but is sweet and memorable.

5. Sunrise Sunset
The wedding song from the Fiddler on the Roof is a long time favorite for the dad and daughter dance. It was sung at my wedding reception 29 years ago, and has special memories for me. And it makes for an elegant dance given the slow and graceful tempo.

6. How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)
This James Taylor classic hit is a great but less often used wedding dance choice. Many dads remember it from their youth and it is a lot of fun to dance to. This is not your classic waltz, but it is still memorable.

7. The Way You Look Tonight
An old Frank Sinatra tune (with the Count Basie orchestra) is a wonderful dad and daughter dance number. It has a fun beat and is well crafted for a little swing dance at a wedding or reception.

8. Unforgettable
You can't listen to Natalie Cole's version of her father's hit Unforgettable without feeling the warm affection between a father and a daughter. And it is easy to dance to as well.

9. Lullabye (Goodnight my Angel)
One of Billy Joel's soulful songs sings a lullaby to his daughter and provides a favorite dance song for weddings. This is a unique song--not one you'll hear at every wedding--and still is meaningful to a dad and his newlywed daughter.

10. My Father's Eyes
Amy Grant's performance of My Father's Eyes is sweet and soulful and will be loved by both you and your daughter.

 

XOXO

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Non-Cheesy Father Daughter Dance Songs

Wedding Music for Fathers and Daughters to Dance To

By Nina Callaway, About.com Guide

 

By nature, the father daughter dance is a little bit sappy. If you do it right, there won't be a dry eye in the house. But that doesn't mean that you have to choose a trite song that your guests have heard at every wedding. Here are dozens of non-cheesy father daughter dance songs from every genre.

Folk and Indie Father Daughter Dance Songs

Father and Daughter – Paul Simon
I almost included this song in the "classics that might be overplayed" section, but I think it's still fresh enough that your guests will enjoy it. (Confession time: The lyrics make me cry a bit when I think about my dad.)

Daughter – Loudon Wainwright III
You may already know this quirky sweet song from the "Knocked Up" soundtrack. I like it because it's not too fast, not too slow, and it honors all the things dad has taught you.

Gracie – Ben Folds
The sweetness of Ben Folds love songs make several of them work as father daughter dance songs.

Rock/Pop Father Daughter Dance Songs

Sweet Child o' Mine – Sheryl Crow. You may get a few laughs when people realize that this is a cover of the Guns n' Roses classic hit, but for rock and metal lovers, this is a great way of including GnR in your wedding without alienating the grandparents.

Daughters – John Mayer
Particularly good for daughters who haven't always had smooth relationships with their fathers, Daughters tells fathers to be good to their daughters, and mothers to be good to them too.

I'll Stand By You - The Pretenders

How You've Grown - 10,000 Maniacs

You Got It – Roy Orbison

Thank You – Led Zeppelin.
The dads of todays brides are more likely to be Led Zeppelin fans than swing music fans. Appeal to your dad's music taste with a little classic rock.

Dancing on Daddy's Shoes - Leon Redbone.
It's hard to say exactly what genre Redbone's music belongs to. His interpretations of early 20th-century music cover rock, folk, jazz, and bluegrass. It's old fashioned while being just a teesy bit modern too.

R & B and Jazz Father Daughter Dance Songs

That's How Strong My Love Is Otis Redding
Otis always makes me swoon, and this is a particularly great song for fathers and daughters.

Stand By Me – Ben E. King

Sunshine of My Life – Stevie Wonder

Daddy – Beyonce

Country Father Daughter Dance Songs

I Hope You Dance – Lee Ann Womack
This New Country song captures the best of a parent's advice to their child

Through the Years – Kenny Rogers

Do I Make You Proud – Taylor Hicks

There'll You'll Be – Faith Hill
Take a listen to the lyrics of this song. It's got a touching sentiment, but I believe it is about a father who has passed away. Still, that's far from overt so it could be used as a father-daughter dance.

I Loved Her First – Heartland

Classic Father Daughter Dance Songs

These are tried, true songs for the Father Daughter Dance that are a perhaps a bit clichéd, and on the cheesy side, but well-loved

Unforgettable by Nat King Cole & Natalie Cole

Sunrise, Sunset from Fiddler on the Roof

My Girl – The Temptations

Butterfly Kisses – Bob Carlisle

The Way You Look Tonight – Frank Sinatra or Tony Bennett

Isn't She Lovely – Stevie Wonder

What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong

 

 

XOXO

Source.

 

Top 10 Wedding Songs and Wedding Oldies

Part Two

By Robert Fontenot, About.com Guide

 

This is a list of what your oldies guide (me) considers the Top 20 wedding oldies -- not just oldies popular at weddings, or oldies about weddings, but a little of both. It's subjective, of course, but it covers the Fifties, Sixties, and Seventies in search of what I consider the greatest oldies used in the wedding ceremony, and at the reception. If you have a suggestion for a wedding oldie, be sure and e-mail me!

 

1. "Unforgettable," Nat King Cole / Natalie Cole

Smooth and silky as only Nat can be, this 1952 hit became a smash all over again forty years later as a posthumous "duet" of sorts with Cole's daughter Natalie. Ah, the wonders of technology. Whichever version you prefer, this song remains a wedding favorite for its slow danceability (it works great for a couple's dance) and also for its lyrical insistence that this state of unforgettableness will last "forevermore." In that context, the duet even makes sense.

 

2. "Can't Help Falling In Love," Elvis Presley

It's one of the most beautiful ballads in pop history, done by one of rock's most remarkable and identifiable voices. But what really sets this standard -- modeled after the French standard "Plaisir D'Amour" and recorded at Elvis' insistence -- apart from similar songs is the way it makes love seem inevitable. "Darling, so it goes... some things are meant to be." Indeed. It also doesn't hurt that the King repeatedly insists the woman in question take not only his hand, but his whole life too.

 

3. "Let's Get Married," Al Green

Al Green IS love, but ironically, this is one of his least convincing love songs, mainly because he seems to be proposing out of boredom and a desire to stop "playin' around... a girl in every town." Oops. So why does this funky little number get played at receptions anyway? Because it's funky, for one thing, and because Green's angelic voice can sell anything. When the song breaks down and Al starts singing about making everything all right, you believe it. Even if you don't want to.

 

4. "What A Wonderful World," Louis Armstrong

More irony: this song only became widely known -- Satchmo's signature song, even, eventually beating out "Hello Dolly" -- after a decidedly ironic appearance in the movie "Good Morning Vietnam." But Louie's version of paradise was so tempting, it couldn't help but touch the hearts of generations. This is one of those rare songs that makes the entire world seem right for a few minutes, not just the singer's corner of it. And that makes it perfect for wedding day.

 

5. "Wedding Song (There Is Love)," Captain and Tennille

A minor hit in '71, this modern folk standard nevertheless got that way because it's perfectly suited to the Judeo-Christian concept of marriage: it imagines a benevolent God in the room itself, brought there by love, and actually quotes the books of Matthew and Genesis in order to sanctify the ceremony. This song was actually written by "Paul" of Peter, Paul and Mary for bandmate Peter Yarrow, and all copyright proceeds go to his charitable organization, which is one more reason to own it.

 

6. "I'm Gonna Get Married," Lloyd Price

A fun little song, much in the same vein as Price's massive Fifties hit "Personality" (also not a bad choice for the reception). Here, "Johnny," not Lloyd, gets his intentions mocked by a sexless Greek Chorus of backing voices that declare him too young. But Johnny/Lloyd doesn't care, not when the woman in question makes him "jump and holler and bump my head into a door." Maybe getting married is a good idea, Lloyd, now that you mention it. And you're not smart enough to hide an aching heart.

 

7. "With This Ring," The Platters

This 1966 gem doesn't sound like the more famous Ike-era Platters of "Twilight Time" and "My Prayer," and indeed, the two versions only have the name in common. However, this agreeable little pop-soul number is a perfect testament to the ceremony (or the engagement, anyway) since it portrays a man who no one ever thought would settle down, and yet does. That's what the ring stands for: commitment. And this is definitely the song for you if you're getting married on the beaches of South Carolina.

 

8. "When We Get Married," The Dreamlovers

Although this, their biggest hit, went Top Ten in '61, the Dreamlovers will probably always be best remembered as the backup vocal group on Chubby Checker's big dance classics. This latter-day doo-wop ballad, however, remains a beautiful testimony to weddings in general. And not just the day itself, but the whole process: invitations, dancing, old folks cooing over the young couple, the whole works. A great slow dance for the young couple, and a fond daydream for the rest of us.

 

9. "Hey! Paula," Paul and Paula

One of the last big old-school rock and roll ballads released before the British Invasion came along and changed everything, this sweet little number remains popular at weddings even though not many guys named Paul buck the odds by finding a girl named Paula to marry. However, considering that the singers themselves, billed as Paul and Paula, were actually named Jill and Ray, well, there you go. The song remains a perfect picture of blushing young innocence.

 

10. "Wouldn't It Be Nice," The Beach Boys

Context is everything. Although this gorgeous and yet somehow rocking milestone in pop music (it was the leadoff on "Pet Sounds," after all) imagines two teens not old enough to marry, it still gets lots of airplay at weddings as a fond look back on the beginnings of young love. The production, songwriting, and harmonies, as usual, epitomize the aching beauty of same, and for those who view weddings as both an end and a beginning, this little symphony sounds like a sweet victory lap indeed.

Top 10 Wedding Songs and Wedding Oldies

Part One

By Robert Fontenot, About.com Guide

 

This is a list of what your oldies guide (me) considers the Top 20 wedding oldies -- not just oldies popular at weddings, or oldies about weddings, but a little of both. It's subjective, of course, but it covers the Fifties, Sixties, and Seventies in search of what I consider the greatest oldies used in the wedding ceremony, and at the reception. If you have a suggestion for a wedding oldie, be sure and e-mail me!

 

1. "Always and Forever," Heatwave

Even the most lenient rock scholar would hesitate before calling this 1976 R&B epic a true "oldie." But it breathes and moves with a very old-fashioned kind of soul; listen close and you can practically hear the ghosts of Motown and doo-wop in the voices. Besides, this is one of the most touching and honest pledges of fidelity ever to hit the Top 40, which may be why this song holds the top spot as the most requested wedding song of recent years. It takes a heart of stone to resist it.

 

2. "We've Only Just Begun," The Carpenters

Before "Always and Forever" claimed the title, this groovy ballad from 1970 was the de rigeur song to celebrate nuptials with. It's easy to see why: Karen Carpenter's voice remains a natural wonder in itself, and the sentiment is (literally) tailor-made for the ceremony, having been penned by Paul Williams for a commercial featuring newlyweds. It's practically a blueprint for a happy marriage: "talking it over, just the two of us, working together day by day... together." Top that, Dr. Phil.

 

3. "To the Aisle," The Five Satins

This 1957 vocal group classic isn't used very often in wedding ceremonies -- it was never even that big of a pop hit -- but it should be, encapsulating as it does the entire history of a generic romance in two minutes and forty-one seconds. There's the meeting, the initial conversation, the falling in love, and the proposal. Yeah, life is often much more complicated than this, but isn't love a simple emotion, when you think about it? A must for doo-wop fans of any age or filing status.

 

4. "Chapel of Love," The Dixie Cups

A perennial favorite at weddings, and how could it not be? Any song which starts with three girls singing "Going to the chapel and we're gonna get married" a capella is bound to be a hit, and you can bet the folks behind this 1964 hit knew it. This girl-group classic, like many others, has a singsongish, almost childlike quality to it... it's easy to see little girls using this as the background for their future wedding fantasies. Which may be part of its charm. Circle of life and all that.

 

5. "At Last," Etta James

Most folks agree that the wedding ceremony is more important to the female than the male of the species, so it's no surprise that Etta's 1961 hit is still a favorite at modern nuptials. This slow ballad is one long, sexy sigh of relief, the sound of a woman who's been searching for a long, long time and has been rewarded in spades. Who can't hope to relate to that? Of course, Etta could make the phone book sound this way, but the lyrics are up to the task, too. "Here we are in heaven." Indeed.

 

6. "A Lover's Concerto," The Toys

Classical music is a standard at weddings, probably because it represents the sort of beauty that everyone present can get into. Which also explains why this girl-group hit from 1965 is also a big hit at the ceremony, based as it is on the melody of Bach's Minuet in G. It's certainly not the first or last pop hit to make use of public domain material like this, but it may be the most beatific. (If you don't care about all that, just remember that this is the "how gentle is the rain" song.)

 

7. "When a Man Loves a Woman," Percy Sledge

Yes, Percy's repertoire is usually all about love gone sadly, tragically wrong, and this song is no exception -- he came up with the melody after a particularly painful breakup, after all. But its existential lyrical quality (and, no doubt, its sweet deep-soul churchiness) have endeared it to generations of lovers, and it fits the occasion perfectly when you look at it as a laundry list of devotion. The question this song asks: how far are you willing to go for love?

 

8. "Unchained Melody," The Righteous Brothers

We can probably thank the hit movie Ghost for elevating this song's popularity up to the status of their biggest hit, "You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling." No matter. The faux brothers' very real blend of voices define blue-eyed soul, and since no one would ever play that other song at a wedding, this one gets the nod. It unfolds beautifully, slowly, like a flower opening, and then soars to Spectoresque heights of operatic ecstasy. Would that all relationships worked like this song does.

  

10. "The Way You Look Tonight," Frank Sinatra

A verbal, musical snapshot of the wedding itself, if you apply it that way... this pop standard captures a moment for further reflection. It's also fantastically detailed and elegant, just like a wedding should be, pointing out "that laugh that wrinkles your nose" and how it "touches my foolish heart." It works just as well for men, however, and not just because Frank is singing it: only the male would be happy about how the female tears his fear apart. Fear of commitment? Depends on the man.

Wedding Ceremony Music

Traditional, Classical, and Contemporary Songs for Your Wedding Ceremony
By Nina Callaway, About.com Guide

It's the moment you've been waiting for - you and your bridal party making a grand entrance and walking down the aisle. But what will you choose for your wedding ceremony music? Music has the power to set a mood, evoke emotion, and give a moment cohesiveness. Are you a traditional Wagner's "Here Comes the Bride" and Pachelbel's "Canon in D" type of couple? Or are you more contemporary, looking for a song that captures your spirit like Norah Jones's "Come Away with Me"? Here is a list of both classic and contemporary wedding ceremony music. Many of the songs can be used for processionals and recessionals, and/or serve as prelude music (when your guests are finding seats and waiting for the ceremony to begin) or postlude music (when your guests are exiting, and/or waiting in the receiving line).


Traditional Wedding Ceremony Music

•"Bridal Chorus from Lohengrin" (Richard Wagner) (also known as "Here Comes the Bride")

•"Canon in D" (Johann Pachelbel)

•"Guitar Concerto in D Major", Largo, (Antonio Vivaldi)

•"Air" (from Water Music Suite), (George Frederic Handel)

•"The Prince of Denmark's March" (Trumpet Voluntary in D major) (Jeremiah Clarke)

•"Procession of Joy" (Hal Hopson)

•"Rigaudon" (Andre Campra)

•"Wedding March" (from The Marriage of Figaro), (Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart)

•Prelude from "Te Deum" (Marc-Antoine Charpentier)

•"Trumpet Tune and Air" (Henry Purcell)

•"Trumpet Voluntary" (John Stanley)


Other Classical Wedding Ceremony Music

•"Coronation March for Czar Alexander III" (Peter I. Tchaikovsky)

•"Overture" (from Royal Fireworks Music), (George Frederic Handel)

•"Promenade" (from Pictures at an Exhibition), (Modest Mussorgsky)

•"Sinfonia" (from Cantata No. 156), (Johann Sebastian. Bach)

•"Cantata No.29" (Johann Sebastian Bach)

•"Prelude and Fugue in C" (Johann Sebastian Bach)

•"Toccata" (from L'Orfeo), (Claudio Monteverdi)

•"Romance from String Quartet" (Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart)

•"Piano Concerto No. 21 in C major" ("Elvira Madigan") (Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart)

•"Trumpet Tune in A-Major" (David N. Johnson)

•"A Midsummer Night's Dream, incidental music, Op. 61 Wedding March" (Felix Mendelssohn)

•"Winter," Largo or "Spring" Allegro (from The Four Seasons), (Antonio Vivaldi)


Contemporary Songs Appropriate for Wedding Ceremonies

•"At Last" (Etta James)

•"Only Time" (Enya)

•"Come Away With Me" (Norah Jones)

•"Appalachia Waltz" (Yo-Yo Ma, Edgar Meyer, Mark O'Connor)

•"Unforgettable" (Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole)

•"It's Only Time" (Magnetic Fields)

•"The Look of Love" (Dionne Warwick/Burt Bacharach)

•"The Vow" (Jeremy Lubbock)

•"Come What May" (Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor)

•"Storybook Love" from the movie "The Princess Bride" (Willy DeVille)

•"Wedding Processional" (from The Sound of Music) (Richard Rodgers & Oscar Hammerstein)

•"Can't help falling in love" (Elvis Presley)

•"What A Wonderful World" (Louis Armstrong)

•"When I'm Sixty-Four" (The Beatles)



XOXO
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Contemporary and Secular Wedding Ceremony Music

Modern and Non-Traditional Wedding Ceremony Music Suggestions to Fit Your Style
By Nina Callaway, About.com Guide

Until about twenty years ago, wedding music was limited to church hymns and other religious music. Now, couples are choosing secular music for their wedding ceremonies that fits their personalities and vibes. Of course, if the bride and groom are religious, or if your ceremony location requires it, religious music is perfectly appropriate. Otherwise, consider adding a bit of contemporary flair to your musical selections.


Wedding Ceremony Music While Guests Are Being Seated

Most guests tend to arrive 20-30 minutes before the ceremony begins so that they can get good seats. Don't just leave them sitting in silence, but entertain them with some witty and fun selections about love and marriage.

Suggestions:

Don’t Falter at the Alter Cab Calloway sings a funny song about giving a nervous groom strength.

The Chapel of Love A classic song by the Dixie Cups, but also recorded by several others, including the Divine Miss M - Bette Midler.

Love and Marriage by Frank Sinatra

L-O-V-E by Nat King Cole


Wedding Processional Music

Depending on the size of your wedding party, and the order of your processional, you'll probably want two or three songs. (The bride traditionally gets a song all to herself.) This is really setting the stage for the ceremony and important ritual that's about to take place, so they should have some pomp and circumstance to them.

Suggestions:

La Valse d'Amelie From the Amelie movie soundtrack, this instrumental song has a sense of magical whimsy.

Heavenly Day by Patty Griffin. The simplicity and beauty of Griffith singing the words "heavenly day" seem to exactly evoke the mood of a wedding ceremony.

Seems I'm Never Tired of Lovin' You by Nina Simone. You know the look on a groom's face when he sees his beloved walking towards him? This song seems to fit the public but intimate moment of the bride's entrance.

The Luckiest Ben Folds Five. I've heard seen many people start to cry when they hear this song, because it reminds them perfectly of the way they feel about their sweetheart.

There She Goes by the La's. A cute fun song for the bride's entrance.


Hint: Once you've chosen your wedding ceremony site, time yourself walk down the length of the aisle. Make sure you've chosen a song that makes sense to fade out at approximately that spot, as you won't want to be awkwardly stuck waiting for the song to finish before you can begin with the ceremony.


Mid-ceremony music

If you've got friends who play music, or are hiring professional musicians for your ceremony, you might want to have them perform during the ceremony. This is particularly appropriate if you are having a unity candle ceremony, or are signing the registry.

Suggestions:

Ashokan Farewell This beautiful instrumental song is gorgeous for strings and/or piano.

At Last by Ella Fitzgerald. The great Ella has many love songs appropriate for wedding ceremony music, but this seems to be the most popular. Many also choose this song for processional music.

Time After Time No, not the Cyndi Lauper song, but the one made famous by Chet Baker.


Recessional Music

As the wedding party walks back down the alter, choose something celebratory and upbeat that will help your guests get in the mood for dancing at the reception.

Suggestions:

Sh-boom by the Chords.

Happy Together by the Turtles

I Feel Good by James Brown


XOXO
Source.

Wedding Music

Instrumental Wedding Ceremony Music
By Espie Estrella, About.com Guide

I love attending weddings; it's so romantic to witness two people profess their love to each other. I remember years ago being a bridesmaid for the first time during a cousin's wedding. It was so beautiful, but what made the ceremony extra special was the music.

When I got married myself I saw to it that the wedding plans were based on what we wanted. My husband and I didn't hire a wedding coordinator, instead we made all the plans and arrangements ourselves. Of course it was difficult and at times nerve-wracking, but all in all we were pleased with the outcome. Among the many details I focused on was the music; from the wedding ceremony down to the reception, I made a point to choose the music we both love.

If you are planning your special day and looking for music to match the occasion, here are several instrumentals to choose from. These music pieces are great for the prelude, processional and recessional parts of the wedding ceremony. Click on the title to hear a music sample and the name of the composer to learn more about him.


Instrumental Wedding Ceremony Music

•"Bridal Chorus from Lohengrin" ("Here Comes the Bride") by Richard Wagner

•"Canon in D" by Johann Pachelbel

•"Guitar Concerto in D Major" (2nd Movement) by Antonio Vivaldi

•"Trumpet Tune and Air" by Henry Purcell

•"Wedding March" by Felix Mendelssohn

•"Promenade" (from "Pictures At An Art Exhibition") by Modest Mussorgsky

•"Cantata No. 156: Arioso" by Johann Sebastian Bach

•"Eine kleine Nachtmusik - Andante" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

•"Piano Concerto No.21, KV 467 - Andante" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

•"Spring" (from the Four Seasons) by Antonio Vivaldi

•"Sheep May Safely Graze" (Cantata No.208) by Johann Sebastian Bach

•"Clair de lune" by Claude Debussy

•"Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini" by Sergei Rachmaninoff

•"Morning" (from Peer Gynt) by Edvard Grieg

•"Laudate Dominum" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart



XOXO
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First Dance Songs for the Bride and Groom

Finding the right song for your first dance as a married couple
By Nina Callaway, About.com Guide

Some nervous grooms get sweaty palms at the mere mention of the first dance. But if you choose a song that is meaningful to you, and makes you happy, that first dance will go swimmingly. If you're having trouble coming up with a song, here’s a list of popular first dance songs.


1."You Are My First, My Last, My Everything" (Barry White)


2."Take My Breath Away” (Berlin)


3."The Rose” (Bette Midler)


4."Our Love Is Here To Stay” (Billie Holiday)


5."Just The Way You Are” (Billy Joel)


6."She's Got A Way” (Billy Joel)


7."We've Got Tonight” (Bob Seger)


8."You Are My Special Angel” (Bobby Helms)


9."If” (Bread)


10."Everything I Own" (Bread)


11."Heaven” (Bryan Adams)


12."True Love Ways” (Buddy Holly)


13."Tonight And Forever” (Carly Simon)


14."You're The Inspiration” (Chicago)


15."Lady In Red” (Chris DeBurgh)


16."Longer” (Dan Fogelberg)


17."Endless Love” (Diana Ross & Lionel Richie)


18."Can You Feel the Love Tonight” (Elton John)


19."Friends” (Elton John)


20."The One” (Elton John)


21."Your Song” (Elton John)


22."Can't Help Falling In Love” (Elvis Presley)


23."Always” (Erasure)


24."At Last” (Etta James)


25."Let It Be Me” (Everly Brothers)


26."Songbird” (Fleetwood Mac)


27."The Best Is Yet To Come” (Frank Sinatra)


28."The Way You Look Tonight” (Frank Sinatra)


29."If I Loved You” (from Carousel)


30."As Time Goes By” (from Casablanca)


31."Some Enchanted Evening” (from South Pacific)


32."Somewhere” (from West Side Story)


33."Love Theme To Romeo & Juliet” (from Zeffirelli's Romeo and Juliet)


34."Nothing's Gonna Change My Love For You” (Glenn Medeiros)


35."Here We Are” (Gloria Estefan)


36."Beautiful” (Gordon Lightfoot)


37."It Had To Be You” (Harry Connick, Jr.)


38."So This Is Love” (James Ingram)


39."Up Where We Belong” (Joe Cocker & Jennifer Warrens)


40."You Are So Beautiful” (Joe Cocker)


41."Woman” (John Lennon)


42."I Swear” (John Michael Montgomery)


43."Chances Are” (Johnny Mathis)


44."Beautiful In My Eyes” (Joshua Kadison)


45."So In Love” (k.d. lang)


46."Don't Know Much” (Linda Ronstadt & Aaron Neville)


47."What A Wonderful World” (Louis Armstrong)


48."Here And Now” (Luther Vandross)


49."Dream A Little Dream” (Mamas & the Papas)


50."Hero” (Mariah Carey)


51."Grow Old With Me” (Mary Chapin Carpenter)


52."Embraceable You” (Nat King Cole)


53."Unforgettable” (Nat King Cole)


54."When I Fall In Love” (Nat King Cole)


55."Marry Me” (Neil Diamond & Buffy Lawson)


56."When A Man Loves A Woman” (Percy Sledge)


57."After All” (Peter Cetera & Cher)


58."Glory Of Love” (Peter Cetera)


59."Wedding Song (There is Love)” (Petula Clark)


60."Perhaps Love” (Placido Domingo & John Denver)


61."Forever and Ever, Amen” (Randy Travis)


62."You Are the Everything" (R.E.M.)


63."I Can't Fight This Feeling Anymore" (R.E.O. Speedwagon)


64."Unchained Melody” (Righteous Brothers)


65."Tonight I Celebrate My Love For You” (Roberta Flack & Peabo Bryson)


66."Truly, Madly, Deeply” (Savage Garden)


67."Kiss From A Rose” (Seal)


68."Dreaming Of You” (Selena)


69."From This Moment” (Shania Twain & Brian White)


70."You're Still The One” (Shania Twain)


71."If I Never Knew You” (Shanice Wilson & John Secada)


72."True” (Spandau Ballet)


73."You Are The Sunshine Of My Life” (Stevie Wonder)


74."I Believe (When I Fall in Love)" (Stevie Wonder)


75."Ma Cherie Amour" (Stevie Wonder)


76."Give a Little Bit" (Supertramp)


77."Eternal Flame” (The Bangles)


78."I Will” (The Beatles)


79."In My Life” (The Beatles)


80."Something” (The Beatles)


81."We've Only Just Begun” (The Carpenters)


82."In The Still of the Night” (The Five Satins)


83."I Only Have Eyes For You” (The Flamingos)


84."A Groovy Kind Of Love” (The Mindbenders)


85."Oh, How The Years Go By” (Vanessa Williams)


86."Will You Marry Me?” (Vonda Shepard)


87."Hold Me” (Whitney Houston & Teddy Pendergrass)


88."One Moment In Time” (Whitney Houston)



XOXO
Source.

Wedding Dance Songs

A List of Popular Wedding Dance Songs
By Treva Bedinghaus, About.com Guide

If a wedding is in your plans, choosing a wedding dance song may be one of the more exciting items on your to-do list. Your first dance as husband and wife is something you and your fiance will cherish forever. Perhaps you have hired a choreographer to create a dance for you that is truly magical, or maybe you plan to simply embrace and enjoy the time in each other's arms. Whichever way you choose, you need to agree on a song.

The following list contains 20 of the most popular wedding dance songs. Of course, if there is a song that has special meaning to you as a couple, you will probably want to pick that one.

•All My Life by KC and JoJo
•Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton
•At Last by Etta James
•From This Moment by Shania Twain
•Hero by Enrique Eglasias Hero
•I Finally Found Someone by Barbara Streisand and Bryan Adams
•I Cross My Heart by George Strait
•I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston
•What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong
•Can't Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley
•Amazed by Lonestar
•It's Your Love by Tim McGraw
•Because You Loved Me by Celine Dion
•Unchained Melody by the Righteous Brothers
•When I'm With You by Sheriff
•I'll Be by Edwin McCain
•The Way You Look Tonight by Frank Sinatra
•When I See You Smile by Bad English
•I Swear by John Michael Montgomery
•A Moment Like This by Kelly Clarkson


XOXO
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Best Wedding Songs by R&B Artists

I Now Pronounce Thee ...
By Mark Edward Nero, About.com Guide

To paraphrase 1980s one-hit wonder Oran "Juice" Jones, a wedding reception without a love song is like cornflakes without the milk.

Love songs - particularly R&B love songs - have traditionally played a significant role in weddings, be it during the actual ceremony, the reception, or on the honeymoon.

Therefore, your Guide to R&B hereby presents some of the best-ever wedding-themed R&B songs. A few may be a little corny, but all are right-on if you're looking for music to play at nuptials.

> "One Love," Midwest City

> "Never," Jaheim

> "Spend My Life with You," Eric Benét & Tamia

> "Ribbon in the Sky," Stevie Wonder

> "Back At One," Brian McKnight

> "On Bended Knee," Boyz II Men

> "Let's Get Married," Jagged Edge

> "Forever My Lady," Jodeci

> "Little Girl," E. Walter Smith

> "Here and Now," Luther Vandross



XOXO
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Top 10 Love Songs: Romance

By Bill Lamb, About.com Guide

Love songs are a fundamental part of pop music. Most of us can think of particular songs we associate with the love relationships of our lives. In the second of a 5 part series on love songs, here are the top 10 love songs that deal with the period when two people twine together as one - romance. Songs are listed in alphabetical order by the name of the artist.

1. Beyonce featuring Jay-Z - "Crazy In Love" (2003)

2. Boyz II Men - "I'll Make Love To You" (1994)

3. Peabo Bryson and Roberta Flack - "Tonight I Celebrate My Love" (1983)

4. Roberta Flack - "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" (1972)

5. Debbie Gibson - "Lost In Your Eyes" (1989)

6. Norah Jones - "Come Away With Me" (2003)

7. Dave Matthews Band - "Crash Into Me" (1996)

8. Paul McCartney and Wings - "My Love" (1973)

9. Savage Garden - "Truly Madly Deeply" (1997)

10. Barry White - "You're the First, the Last, My Everything" (1975)


XOXO
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Songs About Falling in Love

By Espie Estrella, About.com Guide

Candlelit dinner, fine wine, flowers and sweet concoctions, looks like you're all set for a romantic evening. But wait, don't forget the music. Love songs go hand in hand with romance so here are several songs you can listen to with your special someone. You can search for the music videos of these songs on Yahoo Music.Songs

About Falling in Love

•Amazed - Lonestar
•A Moment Like This - Kelly Clarkson
•Angel of Mine - Monica
•At Last - Etta James
•Because of You - Keith Martin
•Can't Help Falling In Love (With You) - Elvis Presley
•Can't Fight This Feeling - REO Speedwagon
•Cheek to Cheek - Fred Astaire
•Crazy For You - Madonna
•Eternal Flame - The Bangles
•Fly Me to the Moon - Frank Sinatra
•For Once in My Life - Frank Sinatra
•Give Me Your Heart - Backstreet Boys
•I Just Want To Be Your Everything - Andy Gibb
•I Knew I Loved You - Savage Garden
•Is This Love? - Whitesnake
•It Had to be You - Frank Sinatra
•I Think I Love You - David Cassidy
•I Want to Hold Your Hand - The Beatles
•Let's Get It On - Marvin Gaye
•Love Of A Lifetime - Firehouse
•Love Me Tender - Elvis Presley
•On The Wings Of Love - Jeffrey Osborne
•The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face - Roberta Flack
•The Closer I Get To You - Beyonce
•This Will Be - Natalie Cole
•'Til There Was You - The Beatles
•To Be With You - Mr. Big
•Truly Madly Deeply - Savage Garden
•Unforgettable - Nat King Cole
•When I Fall in Love - Nat King Cole
•When You Say Nothing at all - Allison Krauss
•You Are So Beautiful - Joe Cocker
•You've Got A Way - Shania Twain
•You Had Me From Hello - Kenny Chesney


Reader Submitted:

•Tell Me What We're Gonna Do Now - Joss Stone
•I Would Die for You - Jann Arden
•Alone - Heart
•Then I Met You - Proclaimers
•The Promise - When in Rome
•Falling Into You - Celine Dion

Know of other songs that should be on this list? Email it to musiced.guide@about.com.


XOXO
Source

Wedding Songs

Songs for Your Wedding
By Espie Estrella, About.com Guide

For those who prefer songs or would want to mix it with instrumentals, here are several songs you can use during the wedding ceremony and reception. Some of these songs would be perfect for the bride's entrance, others would be great for the newlyweds' first dance. If you know other songs that fits the occasion email it to musiced.guide@about.com

•"A Moment Like This" by Kelly Clarkson
•"Your Love" by Jim Brickman
•"Destiny" by Jim Brickman
•"Close to You" by The Carpenters
•"From This Moment On" by Shania Twain
•"Because You Loved Me" by Celine Dion
•"Longer" by Dan Fogelberg
•"'Til There Was You" by The Beatles
•"I Will Be Here" by Steven Curtis Chapman
•"Always" by Atlantic Starr
•"Evergreen" by Barbra Streisand
•"Truly, Madly, Deeply" by Savage Garden
•"It's Your Love" by Tim McGraw/Faith Hill
•"Love of My Life" by Jim Brickman/Michael W. Smith
•"Me and You" by Kenny Chesney
•"Beautiful In My Eyes" by Joshua Kadison
•"You" by The Carpenters
•"For You I Will" by Monica
•"I Do Cherish You" by 98 Degrees
•"When I Fall In Love" by Nat King Cole
•"You're The Inspiration" by Chicago
•"My Valentine" by Martina McBride
•"For the First Time" by Kenny Loggins
•"One In A Million You" by Larry Graham
•"Unexpected Song" by Sarah Brightman
•"I Finally Found Someone" by Barbra Streisand & Bryan Adams
•"All of My Life" by Barbra Streisand
•"Unforgettable" by Nat King Cole
•"What A Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong
•"You're My Home" by Lea Salonga
•"How Did You Know?" by Chiqui Pineda
•"Could I Have This Dance?" by Anne Murray
•"If It Wasn't For Your Love" - by Heather Headley
•"Come What May" by Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor
•"Grow Old With Me" by Mary Chapin Carpenter
•"Thank You For Loving Me" by Bon Jovi
•"When I Said I Do" by Clint Black and Lisa Hartman
•"The Wedding Song" by Peter, Paul and Mary
•"Me and You" by Kenny Chesney
•"You Had Me From Hello" by Kenny Chesney
•"Could Not Ask for More" by Edwin McCain
•"It's Your Love" by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill
•"I Swear" by John Michael Montgomery

XOXO
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Your Wedding Checklist: The Day Before Your Wedding

____Do something to relax and enjoy the company of your out-of-town friends

____Assign responsibilities to your wedding party (handing out corsages and boutonnieres, greeting and seating guests, checking on vendors)

____Confirm wedding day transportation

____Have a manicure and pedicure or other pre-wedding spa pampering.

____Give your wedding party gifts

____Rehearse ceremony

____Hold the rehearsal dinner


Your Wedding Checklist: Day of the Wedding
____Give thank you gifts to your parents

____Enjoy your wedding!


xoxo
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Your Wedding Checklist: One to Two Weeks Ahead

____Arrange seating plan, and write place cards

____Give your final head count to your caterer, and confirm any last minute details

____Write toasts for the rehearsal dinner and reception

____Try on your wedding shoes, and wear them on carpeted surfaces around the house

____Arrange for a plant waterer/pet sitter/babysitter while you are on your honeymoon

____Pick up your wedding dress

____Attend your bachelor party or bachelorette party, if you're having them

____Send your travel plans and contact information to a family member and your house sitter (in case of emergency)

____Finalize seating chart


xoxo.
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Your Wedding Checklist: The month of your wedding

It's finally here! There's just a few more things to do to make sure everything's perfect

____Apply for your marriage license.

____Have your final gown fitting. It's helpful to have a bridesmaid with you to learn how to bustle your train and fasten any tricky buttons (and help you go to the bathroom, if you've got a big wedding dress!)

____Check with your bridesmaids and groomsmen to make sure they've gotten their attire, confirm arrival times, and answer any last minute questions

____Contact your vendors (caterer, officiant, cake baker, photographer, videographer, florist, musicians, transportation, hotels) to confirm arrival and delivery times.

____Write and print your wedding program

____Create welcome baskets or bags for out-of-town guests

____Send change-of-address information to post office

____Write thank you cards as you receive wedding gifts

____Ask your mother or maid of honor to contact any guests who have not RSVP'd

____Read Top Tips for Perfect Wedding Day Beauty


xoxo.
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Your Wedding Checklist: Two to three months before your wedding

____Give a list of "Must Take" photographs to your wedding photographer

____Discuss your wedding menu with your caterer

____Meet with your officiant to discuss the wedding ceremony

____Write your wedding vows

____Attend any bridal showers

____Mail your wedding invitations

____Think about your wedding hair and makeup - If you're doing your own, try out hairstyles, purchase any extra makeup, think about having a "makeover party" with your girlfriends.

____Book your hairstylist and/or makeup artist, if you're using them. Meet with each of them to experiment with styles and colors

____Schedule your wedding rehearsal and rehearsal dinner

____If your state requires it for a marriage license, make blood test appointments

____If you're going to change your name, complete those documents

____Send wedding announcements to local newspapers


xoxo.
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Your Wedding Checklist: Four to six months before your wedding

____Send save-the-date announcements or call out of town guests to let them know the final date, time, and location of the wedding.

____If you're purchasing wedding favors, do so now

____Start planning your rehearsal dinner. Give the host(s) your guest list

____Examine your beauty regimen. Read Five months to perfect wedding day beauty

____If your caterer isn't doing it for you, reserve any rental equipment you'll need, including dishes, tables, chairs, linens, tents

____Register for gifts

____Select your wedding cake designer, and order your wedding cake

____Arrange wedding transportation

____Order stationery

____Select a calligrapher, if you're using one

____Select the groom's tuxedo or other attire, what the groomsmen will wear, and arrange to purchase or rent

____Purchase your wedding rings

____Book wedding night accommodations and accommodations for out-of-town guests

____Buy gifts for your wedding party, parents, and each other.
Bridesmaid Gift Ideas
Gift Ideas for the Bride
Top 10 Groom Gift Ideas

____If you're changing into "going away outfits" before you leave the reception, purchase those now


xoxo.
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Your Wedding Checklist: 8 to 10 months before your wedding

____Shop for and order your wedding dress and accessories, including veil, gloves and shoes


____Sign a contract with your wedding caterer

____Book wedding florist and choose arrangements

____Book your musicians and/or DJ for both ceremony and reception

____Select and confirm your wedding photographer (and your videographer, if you're using one.)

____Look into wedding insurance and decide if it's a good option for you

____Plan your honeymoon

____Shop for and order your bridesmaid dresses

____If you're making your own wedding favors, start doing so now.

____Meet with wedding cake designers or bakers and arrange for a tasting (Yum!)


xoxo
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Questions for Engaged Couples - - Questions to Discuss Before You Get Married

By Sheri & Bob Stritof, About.com Guide
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Discuss These Issues Before Walking Down the Aisle

Many marriage education experts caution that when couples believe in the myths of "happily-ever-after" or "love conquers all," problems in the marital relationship may surface within a short time after the wedding.

The success or failure of your marriage relationship may hinge on how well you deal with issues such as finances, sexuality, communication, conflict, parenting, in-laws, leisure time, family of origin, spirituality, expectations, and chores.

Even though you may be very busy with wedding preparations, it is critical that you make time to prepare for your life time together by exploring your relationship in more depth.

Communication, along with a willingness to grow closer together, is one of the keys to a successful marriage.

Since August 2005 when we expanded this list of questions that every couple should discuss before getting married, we have received suggestions for more questions.

To get to know one another better you can play the play "The Newlywed Board Game" together or you can look over these questions that we believe you need to ask one another if you want to improve your future marital life.

General Issues to Talk About Before You are Married
* Why are we getting married? Pregnancy, financial security, loneliness or wanting to get out of the family home are not valid reasons to get married.

* What do we as a couple want out of life?

* What do you think we'll be doing in thirty or forty years?

* How often do you drink?

* Have you ever hit someone?

* Do you think it is important to be faithful to one another?

* Do you have a criminal record?

* Are you willing to replace the toilet tissue roll?


Family of Origin Issues to Talk About Before You are Married
* What was your childhood like?

* Was your family an affectionate one?

* Do you think we will have problems with your family during the holidays?

* What values do you want to bring from your family into our marriage?

* What do you like and dislike about your family?

* what do you like and dislike about my family?

* What do you like and dislike about your parents' marriage?

* What do you like and dislike about my parents' marriage?

More on Family of Origin Issues


Self Image Issues to Talk About Before You are Married
# How would you describe yourself?

# How do you think I see you?

# Am I a jealous person?

# Do I have trust issues or feel insecure?

# How important is affirmation to me?

# Do I handle compliments well?

# What is your love language?

# Do you think we listen to one another well?

# Do you think it is important to know one another's physical and mental health histories?

More on giving compliments.


Time and Chores Issues to Talk About Before You are Married
* Will you clean the toilet?

* How are we going to divide up the household chores?

* What are your expectations about how we will spend our free time?

* How do you want to spend our days off?

* Do you believe that we should be doing everything together?

* Can we each pursue our own interests?

* Do you need or want time alone?

* How would you feel if I want a night out with my friends now and then?

* How will we make sure we have quality time together?

* How much time will we spend with our in-laws?

More on Handling Household Chores Together

More on Time Management Issues


Money Issues to Talk About Before You are Married
* Can we talk about money?

* Are you a saver or spender when it comes to money?

* Do you want to have a budget?

* Should we have a joint checking account or separate accounts or both?

* Who is going to be responsible for making sure that bills are paid on time?

* Do you consider going to the movies and having a vacation every year a necessity or a luxury?

* How much do we owe in debts and what are our assets?

* Where does our money go?

* What are our financial goals?

* Do you have any outstanding fines or debts?

* What are our future plans for purchasing a home?

* Do we both know where our important financial documents are located?

More on Money Issues


Parenting Issues to Talk About Before You are Married
* Do you want to have children?

* Do we want to have children?

* If we decide we do, how many children do you want to have?

* How long should we be married before having children?

* What kind of parent do you think you will be?

* What is your parenting philosophy?

* Will one of us stay home after we have children?

* What type of birth control should we use if we want to postpone or prevent parenthood?

* How do you feel about adoption?

* Do you have any children already?

More on Parenting Issues


Spirituality and Religious Issues to Talk About Before You are Married
* Does religion play an important part in your life?

* Do you think faith and spirituality are important in a marriage?

* What is your image of God?

More on Religious Issues


Sexual Issues to Talk About Before You are Married
* Can we talk about sex?

* Should we talk about sex?

* Are you comfortable discussing your sexual likes and dislikes?

* What are your expectations of our sexual relationship?

More on Sexual Issues


Conflict Issues to Talk About Before You are Married
* How will we make decisions together?

* Are we both willing to face into difficult areas or do we try to avoid conflict?

* Do you think we have problems in our relationship that we need to deal with before our wedding?

* Do we handle conflict well?

* How are we different?

* Do you think our differences will create problems in our marriage?

* Do you expect or want me to change?

* Can we both forgive?

* Are we both willing to work on our communication skills and to share intimately with each other?

Conflict and Anger Issues

xoxo.

Your Wedding Checklist: 10 to 12 months before your wedding

____Read The First Ten Steps for a Newly Engaged Couple

____Tell your parents, important family members, and close friends the good news! How to Announce Your Engagement

____You might also want to announce your engagement in the newspaper, on a wedding website with an email sent out to all your friends, or in the most traditional way, with mailed engagement announcements

____Have an engagement party, if you'd like

____Envision the tone of your wedding: Formal or casual? Day or evening? Religious or secular?

____Consider having a wedding theme, which will help pull together the style, look, and feel of your wedding

____Choose your wedding colors, which will add visual unity.

____Set your budget, read Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding

____Decide who will pay for the wedding. Will your parents cover it all? Can you contribute? How will expenses be split?

____Start your guest list

____Select date and time. Have backup dates in mind, in case a key element is unavailable.

____Select and reserve your ceremony and reception sites

____Hire a wedding consultant, if you're using one

____Choose and book your wedding officiant

____Choose bridesmaids, groomsmen and ushers

____Meet with florists, caterers, and musicians.

____Arrange for a tasting with your caterer


xoxo
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