Like the soundtrack to a movie, the type of music that is played will have the greatest single influence on the mood and rhythm of your wedding. That is why it is so necessary to make sure that your musical menu makes the celebrations go with a swing.

Music to the ears

Every wedding is different, and you need to ensure that the music you choose is suitable for the type of wedding you are having, taking into account your guests' preferences as well! When in doubt, a DJ is generally a good bet for a mixed crowd, a string ensemble would be perfect for an intimate evening affair, and an infectious Latin American band would work wonders at a large wedding with a carnival-type theme.

Size also counts – a six-piece band works best with around 100 guests, while a 10-piece orchestra would only be suitable for a much bigger reception.

Sound them out

Musicians and DJs – particularly the popular ones – should be booked around six months beforehand. Ask other wedding professionals you have hired for recommendations, as they can be an invaluable source of information.

At your first meeting, ask about their fees, as well as overtime. You’ll also need to find out what time they set up and how late they will play, as well as how many breaks they take. To keep the good times rolling during breaks, find out if they will play pre-recorded music between sets.

Ensure that the band members you particularly like will be playing at your celebration by including their names in the contract, and get everything backed up in writing. When making your final decision, it is important to go with someone you feel comfortable with and with whom you’ve been able to establish a good rapport.

Want a DJ? Your three main selection criteria are a sound reputation, proper equipment and a wide selection of material. Rates vary considerably, and although paying more generally means professionalism and better sound quality, a DJ is only as good as the equipment he brings along. Find out how regularly his equipment is serviced or upgraded, and check on details like the microphone and whether lighting is included in the quote.

Cabling should be neat, and speakers and the disco's logos shouldn't interfere with the décor. Volume is another important factor: background music should remain just that, while dancing tunes should be loud enough to enjoy without being too hard on the ears.

Make sure you are on the same wavelength when selecting a musician, and watch a video of their music beforehand. If you are choosing a band, the bandleader should be able to tell you exactly what he requires in terms of space, power points and tables.

If your venue doesn't have the necessary PA equipment, they will need to make other arrangements or use their own. You should also let them know about any decorations that might affect the quality of sound, such as draped fabric, so they can plan accordingly.

On the same page

Discuss your preferences with the musicians or DJ beforehand – compile a list of special songs as requests to be played, and make sure that they are aware of the specific song to be played for the first dance. Also let them know if there are any songs you do not want to hear.

Music to the ears

At the ceremony: The music you choose for your ceremony needs to be a perfect match for the setting. Harp music adds an elegant touch and is also surprisingly versatile.

Some couples like to weave their music around a theme, such as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera, love songs by the Beatles, music by a particular classical composer, new age sounds, or even Motown hits. Some couples request music in the background as the vows are being exchanged or throughout the entire ceremony.

If you are getting married in a church, you will probably find that sacred, classical songs played by an organist or sung by a soloist or choir are best. Listening to some CDs will help you make your choice.

In the event that you are exchanging vows at a family home, a country hotel or private venue, a violinist, flautist or classical guitarist will enhance the special ambience of the moment. Do check with the necessary authorities first, though, as civil venues are generally more accommodating than religious settings.

When choosing hymns, it's probably better to choose ones that your guests are familiar with. The general rule is that two hymns are sung during the course of the service, followed by an exit number in the form of a march.

Timing is important, as you will need the music to last while guests are being seated and during the signing of the register.

If you're looking for an enchanting and gentle classical backdrop to the reception, a string ensemble could be the answer. These groups can incorporate between three and 10 players, and are as perfectly suited to wine and candlelight as they are to a gentle mid-morning affair.

The quartet, which is most popular, typically consists of two violins, a viola and a cello. Because members are usually dressed in formal attire, an ensemble is not only music to guests' ears - it is also visually appealing.

While you may prefer not to have any entertainment other than the speeches during the wedding meal, pleasing background music can enhance the atmosphere and cover up any awkward silences. Keep an eye on the volume though, and make sure music doesn't drown out the conversation.

Party time

If there is to be dancing at the reception, popular choices could include a DJ or a pop band, which are great for getting people on the dance floor, as is a big band or even a soul band. For sultry, steamy sounds, Latin American is the way to go.

This is the time to cut loose, and Latin sounds, whether classical, bossanova or samba, boost energy levels and get the party sizzling. And for something completely different, especially with a younger, fun-loving crowd, how about having karaoke at some stage during the evening?

While theme music, such as big band sounds from the 1940s, can appeal to some ages, you will be more likely to get guests up and dancing with a mix of old and new. The bandleader or DJ should know the tunes that get people onto the dance floor, as well as good background music.