Music is an essential part of life as we know it and your wedding day is no exception. The music you choose for your ceremony will set the mood and ambiance for your wedding day.

• Be sure to include ceremony music in your budget for music and entertainment.

• Be creative with your music selection. Choose vocal and instrumental sounds you personally like or are reflective of your personal style.

• Hire professionals; they can help you choose your musical selections.

• Consult with your pastor or wedding officiate about how much time is allowed for musical selections. Also, check rules concerning your church organist, musicians, and vocalists.

• Ask for references; request a tape or personal audition or, if circumstances permit, attend a performance.

• Select music that represents your relationship. If possible, have your musicians or vocalists participate in the wedding ceremony rehearsal. If they are family or friends, you may want to have some practice sessions to make sure the sound is to your specifications.

• Make sure the quality of the musical instruments is up to acceptable standards, especially if it belongs to someone else. Sometimes a simple piano tuning can make all the difference between good and bad sound. Check the speakers and amplifiers as well and make sure any necessary adjustments are made.

• Ask a booking agent about musicians for the ceremony. Consider using a musician, like a harpist or pianist, for both your ceremony and reception music. Not only will it provide continuity in your musical style, but you will probably be able to negotiate a better rate as well.

• If using recorded music, be sure whoever is cueing it knows the exact track number and order. Listen to the music through the sound system before the wedding day to make sure the sound quality is correct.

• If your ceremony includes military formations, consider using military musicians and the traditional music that accompanies those ceremonies.