The critical reason for selecting the perfect wedding/reception music is this special day is one that will be remembered by you and those in attendance for the rest of your life. Clearly, if the music is inferior then the party will go down in history as a fun party but be remembered as having atrocious music. This is a once in a lifetime event so don't let poor quality music start your married life "out of tune."

Everyone would love to have a big name band on stage to perform the perfect song for the first dance. However, ultimate bands command large budgets. Consider your overall budget and decide what part music should play in your wedding. A recommended low end amount would be approximately $1,500.00 - $2,500.00. Of course, you can easily spend twice that amount for nationally known talent. Be careful of trying to cut corners by allowing friends or relatives to coerce you into thinking they have an inside road of getting a famous musician such as Jimmy Buffett. You can waste a great deal of time trying to lure a famous person when a local area band can probably do a wonderful performance that will enhance the bridal couple and not just feature an awesome performer.

Quick personal story: At my first wedding we had Brave Combo, an amazing Polka band. Everyone with the exception of the bride was horrified at the prospect of a Polka band. Nevertheless, they were the hit of the party. Everyone danced and partied. We also received an acknowledgement from my father-in-law that he was wrong and we were right (the one and only time). Thus, this is your day. Choose music you like and those attending will be pleased that you're happy.

So you have your budget set and you are not under any circumstance going to wait months trying to arrange a famous person from a friend or relative. Also, don't go to YouTube to choose bands. Check with your wedding planner. Listen to local bands in your area. You will most likely find some real gems that would enjoy helping you to have outstanding music at your wedding. In addition, you might consider the simple formula of using a great DJ rather than a band.

Soapbox moment: There are many people, including me, that have been in the music business a long time and are experienced in booking music. I have been in the business over 25 years and book music for a living. Consider hiring someone to help. Typically this person can pay for himself or herself by saving you money on bands and production. You are spending a lot of money on this special day and there are a lot of possibilities of something going wrong. A professional can foresee problems that could end up creating embarrassing moments. For example, if your band calls the day before the reception and can't perform, then you have someone with a vast network of musicians in which to find a replacement. In short, if you have any doubts on selecting appropriate music for your wedding and reception, please consult a professional to book your music.

As seen in the current issue of Premier Bride of Mississippi. Want more? Go to www.premierbridems.com