Have you ever wondered why some weddings just feel a step above in the "classy" stakes? I've been to plenty of weddings as a photographer over the past 14 years and every wedding has a certain feel. Don't misunderstand me, there isn't a right or wrong in this department, it's just that every wedding is different. Isn't that the idea?

Some weddings are casual, formal, relaxed, fun, a party, traditional - all depending on the couple and the style of wedding they are going for. One style of wedding definitely stands out though - weddings with live music, in particular those with a string quartet.

You know the ones... the garden wedding in the vineyards, guests spectacularly dressed, champagne and the classical sound of violins, a cello, a viola and piano. Everyone mingling in small groups, the soft sound of laughter and the fresh air.

There is an announcement of the brides arrival and guests take their seats as the music steps up a notch and seems to enhance the feeling that something special is about to happen.

It's the same in a chapel too. Live music just fills the room and the unmistakable tune of The Brides Chorus sounds and it feels as though you are part of a movie...

I love those weddings.
How you can have a classy wedding
In this session of the podcast, I speak with Anne from d'Amore about everything you need to know about hiring a string quartet for your wedding. It's pretty obvious that although I love weddings with a quartet, I have no idea about what I need to know about hiring one.

Lucky for me, Anne was very patient and explained everything, including:

The difference between a call quartet (and how to say that word correctly) and an ensemble
The best compositions of different instruments
Why a piano can make a big difference to your wedding day


The different styles and genres you can have with string instruments - it's not just classical
What you need to provide for your musicians on your wedding day
Costs and coverage and what's included
How to choose musicians for your wedding from a recording
Can you bring in your own singer with hired musicians?
How to choose the right music your style of wedding
Advantages of live musicians as opposed to a recording

After the interview you will be well placed to hire the perfect ensemble for your wedding no matter where you live. Plus, you'll have a great idea of how and when you'd like your live music to be played on the day.

 
Concerns with hiring a DJ

Still on the topic of wedding music, I received an email from Julie who has concerns about hiring her DJ. She had plans to go with a popular local DJ but wasn't impressed with them after attending a couple of friends wedding where they handled the music.

She then went on to speak to another DJ but was concerned they preferred she only pick songs for the big moments of the day but leave the reception dancing music to them.

Because music is so important to Anna, she has serious reservations about trusting the music choice to anyone else.

Listen in to hear my advice - I'd love to know if you agree?

 
Links to sites mentioned in the podcast:
D'AmoreEnsembles: http://damore.com.au

D'Amore Ensembles on: Facebook

D'Amore Ensembles on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/dAmoreEnsembles
Are you enjoying the podcast?
If so, can you do me a big favour: tell one of your friends that's getting married about the show. Just one friend - on Facebook, email or call them. If you tell one friend, it'll help get word out and more girls can have a better chance at a great wedding plus get some entertainment along the way... hopefully.

Also, if you have a question, feel free to use the comments area below or you can email me at