Choosing The Best Music Genre for Your Wedding
Choosing The Best Music Genre for Your Wedding
When planning the music for your special day it can feel daunting with so many musical options to choose from. You want something appropriate for all ages, but you also want to create a party atmosphere that your friends can dance to. But don’t forget to include some of your favorite songs for you and your new spouse to jam to! Below are some factors to consider when planning your wedding entertainment set list.
What suits you?
First of all, what sort of music do you and your partner love to listen to? Whilst you want to consider your guests, your wedding day should be all about the happy couple. The music on the day ought to be a reflection of you and your partner. Pick music that is meaningful to you both, and makes you happy. Although there are many great wedding songs out there, don’t choose something just because it’s traditional.
Emerald City Band can work with any budget
We have spent over 38 years in the wedding party business, working with clients to build custom set lists for every occasion. When meeting with your wedding entertainment, look for a band that offers and performs a variety of genres. Your wedding is a mixed audience, so mixing your genres ensures that all wedding guests will likely to hear something they’ll want to get up and dance for.
Setting a budget will help you decide your options. A professional band should read the crowd and play cross-generational songs to keep your guests happy. Once the dance floor fills, the tunes ought to remain up-tempo, interspersed with a few romantic slow numbers.
Pick your song list for those key moments such as your first and last dance. And if there are any songs you want to avoid, you could make a list of ‘don’t play’ numbers.
Popular wedding music genres
Classical music: sets a romantic and elegant atmosphere, and serves as a gentle backdrop during meals and while guests are chatting and relaxing. Whilst your budget may not stretch to a full orchestra, you could opt for a string quartet or a solo performer.
Folk/festival: folksy acoustic outfits have become increasingly popular at weddings. If you’re planning a bohemian, festival-style celebration, a band that can perform catchy buoyant songs will add instant ambiance.
Rock ‘n’ roll: treat your guests to a classic collection of exciting 1950s/60s songs that are perfect for dancing. This is a great choice if you have a vintage wedding theme.
Pop: a tried and tested winner at getting a party going, Emerald City will deliver an exciting and energetic set of classic pop anthems and modern chart hits. Pop music appeals to all ages, and you can look forward to a full dance floor as your guests sing along to their favorite tunes.
Whichever music genre you choose, remember to enjoy yourself and dance the night away with your loved ones!
Jazz: an extremely versatile genre which works well at weddings. Jazz spans a breadth of styles, from soothing background music to romantic ballads to up-tempo swinging numbers that tempt your guests onto the dance floor. Unlike most bands, Emerald City has four horn players, all very experienced playing jazz. If you book Emerald City Band you and your party can look forward to a phenomenal show on your big day.
Soul and funk: a vibrant combination of powerful vocals, catchy dancefloor fillers and a funky beat. This musical genre showcases uplifting disco and Motown era hits and smooth romantic ballads. This style of music is sure to get your guests up and grooving.
A Floral Fairytale Fantasy Wedding at The Ritz Carlton
A Flower Power Celebration!
It was a sunny evening in Dallas when Hannah Forbare and Fritz Deichert gathered their loved ones together to celebrate their love for each other at The Ritz Carlton in the heart of Downtown Dallas. Kristin Butler and her hard working team at Fabulous Fete were the proprietary planners who organized a Floral Fairytale ceremony and reception in the same ballroom at the Ritz Carlton. Guests were welcomed to a floor to ceiling florally outfitted ceremony with elegant music from a string quartet. Emerald City’s own soloists, Jade and Adam, performed an acoustic version of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” as the bride floated down an aisle decorated with lavish petal white blooming trees designed by Bella Flora of Dallas. After the ceremony guests were escorted into the main cocktail area to enjoy beverages, light refreshments, and a Gospel ensemble from Eclipse Entertainment.
Both the ceremony and reception spaces were decorated from top to bottom with stunning drapery and floral arrangements provided by Bella Flora and soft colored lighting for the full room by Stage 2 Lighting. Rounded tables with lengthy floral tree arrangements, single feature floral vases, and soft candle lighting were organized around a square dance floor, provided by Center Stage Floors, which featured the bride and groom’s monogrammed initials. More of the unique collection of white florals from the original ceremony space were used throughout the space, transporting guests to an enchanted forest. With such a large volume of florals the ballroom smelled of the most heavenly floral shop featuring a diverse bouquet of white flowers ranging from romantic roses, to delicate orchids and hydrangeas. The cake, provided by the hotel and outfitted with florals from Bella Flora, sat in front of the largest floral feature of the venue, a magnificent wall bouquet with almost every type of ivory flower you could imagine.
The ballrooms doors opened and the new “Mr. and Mrs. Deichert” came waltzing into their first dance song, “Crazy Love” by Van Morisson. After the parents of the bride and groom shared some loving sentiments with the newlyweds, the party was up and rocking. Emerald City busted out their favorite hits like “Ain’t No Mountain,” “Can’t Stop the Feeling,” and various pop medleys while guests danced the night away. Elysium productions and John Cain Photography were close to the action ready to capture the best memories of the night. Guests were encouraged to visit the MirMir photo booth to take home souvenirs from the night.
A full sized candy bar with new and old classics was set up for guests who were looking to satisfy their sweet tooth.
With a deep, shared love for baseball, the bride and groom donned their jerseys and sneakers and opted for comfort for the final dance set of the night.
Congratulations to Fritz and Hannah Deichert! We had so much fun celebrating your special day! Check out the gallery by John Cain Photography below.
To keep up with Emerald City Band’s public and private events, be sure to follow us on social media or check out the ‘Calendar’ page on our website.
Vendors Listed in this Article:
Images/ Photography: John Cain Photography
Planner: Fabulous fete
Florist: Bella Flora
Lighting: Stage 2 Lighting
Dance Floor: Center Stage Floors
Gospel Choir: Eclipse Entertainment
Food Truck: Fletcher’s Corn Dogs
Videography: Elysium Productions
Photo Booth: MirMir
Hair and Makeup : My Fabulous Faces & Sonia Trevino Hair
Venue: Ritz Carlton
The Real Housewives of Dallas: LeeAnne Lockens Wedding
Lights! Camera! Action! Emerald City Band had the amazing opportunity to perform at LeeAnne Locken and Rich Emberlin’s wedding reception earlier in the year. LeeAnne Locken, a main cast member on Bravo TV’s “The Real Housewives of Dallas” is known for her outgoing and “tell it like it is” personality and we’re quite the fan.
On the newest season of Bravo’s hit reality show, her wedding ceremony and reception aired and it felt so good to relive that epic night Planned by exceptional wedding and event planner, Steve Kemble, and an immensely talented team of vendors, her wedding was something out of a dream.
Our founder and CEO, Deno Taglioli, wrote and performed an original song specifically for LeeAnne and Rich for their first dance as husband and wife. Titled “You Are Mine”, the song truly captures what it means to have found that forever partner in life. Take a look below at a video recap and photo gallery of that amazing night.
Photography Credit: http://Jennefer Wilson Fine Art Film Photography
Video Credit: Robert Kauffman
The Broadmoor Hotel Wedding Exprience – Emerald City Style
Emerald City was thrilled to be a part of the magic of Brooke and Landon McKean’s wedding! Located in the mountains of Colorado Springs, at a classic destination for a picture-perfect wedding. we had the honor of providing high-energy entertainment to match this spectacular event.
Emerald City was so grateful to be a part of the incredible experience, creating a magical night to remember with the McKean’s. The bride and groom had gorgeous details at their wedding—from cute accessories such as emoji necklaces and crowns to a frozen Rosè machine! The couple kept the venue fresh and young, with beautiful floral arrangements and fun lighting.
The bride had over 20 sorority sisters as her bridesmaids dancing up a storm on stage with Emerald City all night long! The fun accessories, beautiful décor, gorgeous floral arrangements, and energy that this wedding party brought made it a night to remember. To get a glimpse into this incredible wedding night, watch our video on the McKean’s reception below.
It’s no wonder the wedding was so beautiful, with top-notch Colorado wedding planner Sarah Viera planning the night.
20 Perfect Yet Unexpected Wedding Reception First Dance Songs Part 2
20 Perfect Yet Unexpected Wedding Reception First Dance Songs
In Part 1, we looked at “finding the perfect, one-of-a-kind first dance song for your wedding reception” with 10 wonderful choices. And now for the final 10 songs in Part 2!
11. Golden Hour – Kacey Musgraves
A country love song with a pop twist, Musgrave’s “Golden Hour” sounds like pure sunshine. Beautiful, entrancing, blissful — this hit will soon become your dedication to your future spouse.
12. December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night) – The Four Seasons
Another upbeat classic, “December, 1963” is the perfect first dance tune for the fun-loving bride and groom. This song will undoubtedly have all your guests smiling and clapping as they watch you dance.
13. Latch (Acoustic) – Sam Smith
Sam Smith’s falsetto, the beauty of the acoustic recording, and the gorgeous lyrics will create a memorable and thoughtful first dance that will set the scene for your magic night.
14. Dancing in the Moonlight – King Harvest
A classic, feel-good hit, “Dancing in the Moonlight” will have everyone excited to reminisce on this popular, nostalgic song. The pure joy and happiness packed into this song will guarantee a beautiful and fun first dance.
15. Baby I’m Yours – Arctic Monkeys
This heartwarming cover has a 50’s love vibe that will create a uniquely beautiful atmosphere for your first dance. Check out the original as well if you’re interested in using this song! Both the original and this cover are perfect for any wedding.
16. Dog Days Are Over – Florence + The Machine
“Happiness hit her like a train on a track” should be exactly how your wedding night is described. This song perfectly portrays the moments in your life, especially your special wedding night, when you truly cannot stop smiling.
17. The Moon Song – Karen O & Ezra Koenig
This is the type of song that makes those who hear it imagine dancing with the love of their life at their future wedding. There couldn’t be a more perfect first dance song. “The Moon Song” creates an atmosphere of pure love.
18. XO – Beyoncé
XO, performed by both Beyoncé and John Mayer, is a gorgeous song that will fill your heart with affection, love, and hope. Check out the John Mayer version as well! Both are so beautiful and perfect for a first dance song.
19. Happiness – Rex Orange County
This lovely, modern love song makes a perfect first dance experience. “Happiness” is a beautiful, sweet hit that portrays love perfectly.
20. Danny’s Song – Loggins and Messina
This nostalgic song is sure to get every guest at your wedding emotional, enjoying your beautiful night and celebrating love with you. The meaning behind the lyrics creates an intentional and gorgeous atmosphere that will linger throughout your special night.
We hope you have enjoyed both Part 1 and Part 2 and now have some new ideas for your first dance!
20 Perfect Yet Unexpected Wedding Reception First Dance Songs Part 1
20 Perfect Yet Unexpected Wedding Reception First Dance Songs
Finding the perfect, one-of-a-kind first dance song for your wedding reception can seem impossible, but we’re here to help. As the best wedding entertainment band in the country for over three decades, we have seen it all — the classic Etta James, the country slow dance, the fast-paced Queen rock tune, original compositions, orchestral pieces—the list goes on and on. Whatever your ultimate choice is, it should speak to you and your relationship, making the night just that much more perfect.
Deciding the mood, whether it’s an upbeat hit or a slow ballad, is a good first step. If you can’t decide, we’ve included a little of both in our list. A tip is to listen to some options on high volume and imagine yourselves on your wedding night. If you have a natural desire to dance, a smile on your face, and happiness in your heart, it’s probably a good contender for that special first dance.
If you feel more comfortable with some fast-paced choreography, perhaps a pump-up song that’ll start the night right, getting you and the crowd energized, is your best bet. Maybe a slow sway is more your vibe, and you’re looking for a more unpredictable ballad. Ultimately, whatever fits YOU best will make for the perfect song.
Keep scrolling for some great options!
1. Home – Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
This forever young, magnetic song was featured in the hit movie Stuck in Love. The song describes love as a home, always present no matter where you go. Uplifting and positive, “Home” is a perfect dedication for your first dance.
2. Music To My Eyes – Lady Gaga
Used as the backdrop for the wedding in A Star is Born, this song’s lyrics and melody will be sure to melt your heart. “I want to sing you a sunrise and be the dawn I know will move you” is just a taste of the poetic lines of this song.
3. Love – Lana Del Rey
The title describes this piece of music perfectly. Lana Del Rey encompasses the wistful art of love and romance, creating a ballad perfect for an emotion-filled first dance.
4. Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes) – Edison Lighthouse
This throwback hit will guarantee a great first dance. The energetic, uplifting vibe will have your guests ready to celebrate your night with you!
5. How Long Will I Love You – Ellie Goulding
A gorgeous slow dance, “How Long Will I Love You” guarantees tears of joy. The beautiful lyrics describe love perfectly—endless and eternal. Goulding’s song is a promise to always love and will take you and your guests to a beautiful, emotional place.
6. Love Never Felt So Good – Michael Jackson & Justin Timberlake
High-energy and fun, this Michael Jackson/Justin Timberlake duet is a great option for a first dance. Anyone listening will want to sing along, even if they don’t know the words. It’s undoubtedly a feel-good, happy love song.
7. Electric Love – BØRNS
An innocent, happy-go-lucky track, “Electric Love” serves teenage love and pure happiness vibes. It’s guaranteed to get you smiling upon first listen. The lyrics, “Baby, you’re like lightning in a bottle, I can’t let you go now that I got it,” speak perfectly to a true love story.
8. One and Only – Adele
This intensely gorgeous Adele ballad is the ultimate love song. The lyrics are an ode to loving someone completely and wholly. The piano, band, and Adele’s voice would serve as a beautiful first dance.
9. All Night – Beyoncé
“Nothing real can be threatened” stands out as one of the best lyrics of this beautiful piece of music. Every lyric speaks perfectly to an everlasting love, with Beyoncé providing a more modern and fun first dance song.
10. Bloom – The Paper Kites
This song concocts images of a perfect sunset, a night of dancing, bare feet on grass and wind in the soul, of practically every good, pure, and beautiful memory you can remember. This is truly one of the most beautiful songs ever recorded, and completely embodies true love.
We hope you have enjoyed Part 1 and now have some new ideas for your first dance. Click over to Part 2 and we will share 10 more!
Happy Fathers Day from Emerald City Band
Today’s a great day for a variety of reasons, a major one being the fact that it’s Father Day! When Emerald City Band performs at weddings, it’s the best feeling to be a part of such a special day. For the bride, the groom, their families and friends, it’s a wonderful occasion and we’re honored to be a part of it.
So many special moments are attached to a wedding, and one is the bride and father of the bride dance. It’s a tender and sweet moment between a father and daughter, it’s beautiful and important in more ways than one. To play that special song for is a phenomenal feeling that just can’t be beat.
Happy Fathers Day to all the fathers out there, we hope it’s filled with love and great memories.
Photo Credit:
San Diego Wedding
From Dallas, all the way to San Diego! Emerald City will travel all over the country to make your wedding the BEST wedding it can be!
Congratulations to the happy couple, Claudia and Max Brodsky!!
Travel, Travel, Travel
When the cool air comes in and the leaves start to fall, that is when you know it is getting into the “busy season’ for the best band for live entertainment. Between picturesque Fall weddings, national corporate conventions and holiday parties, the calendar fills up quick. In the last two months alone, Emerald City has traveled all over the country from Colorado, Kansas City, San Antonio, Phoenix, and all the way north to Chicago.
So many long travel days, in many different airports, fitting in sleep wherever we can, but we love every single minute of it. EC prides itself on being the BEST party band in the country and further proves that by some many repeat clients year after year, across the US. It is a wonderful thing to do what we love and to be able to travel and see the world while we do it.
“You guys are on a whole other level! We know how much your group brings to our event
and gets the crowd going, so we are the ones who want to say THANK YOU!”
-Repeat client of 6 years in Kansas City
