Here is a selection of Q&As from Your West Midlands Wedding magazine whether it be about flowers, hair and makeup, fashion, wedding themes, health & beauty, cakes, stationery, legal advice. If you would like your question answered by our experts, please email it to editor@yourwestmidlands.wedding
To view more expert advice on a different topic, please select one from the list below.
Music to my ears
Q. We're thinking of booking a harpist for our big day. What should we expect and be aware of before booking?
A. Helen Barley says: Consider what type of harp you'd like at your wedding as there are many different styles and sizes available. For example, a grand, golden antique option may be used in a large church or stately home, whereas a smaller, more modern version may suit a contemporary setting.
Ask your harpist for a consultation either in person or online, so you can discuss their available options. I also advise you hear them perform live before booking.
See if they're flexible with timings. Weddings are notoriously difficult to keep to a strict timetable, so if a harpist is booked for two hours, it could be disruptive if they pack up halfway through the dessert. It's best to book by event rather than hourly, so ask for quotes and shop around.
Check whether the harpist has amplification available for larger numbers. All harps can be fitted with electric pick-ups with wireless transmission, so no trailing wires are necessary.
Does your prospective supplier offer any extra services like singing or entertaining children with small harps?
Helen Barley, Helen Barley Harpist
www.helenbarley.co.uk
Music to my ears
Q. What song choices would you suggest for a woodland wedding?
A. Helen Barley says: What could be more enchanting than the sound of a harp in a leafy woodland glade? Gently wafting melodies will enhance the sights and sounds of nature and create the perfect atmosphere for your wedding. Many upbeat popular songs can easily be adapted on the harp to create a more relaxing sound. Here are some song ideas:
- Take inspiration from songs used in movies such as A Million Dreams, A Thousand Years, Beauty and the Beast and Can You Feel The Love Tonight.
- Classical tunes like Canon by Pachelbel and Four Seasons by Vivaldi would sound beautiful.
- Wind Beneath My Wings, Can't Help Falling in Love and From This Moment On are wonderful love songs. Similar options can be played on the harp to reflect your style and make the ceremony bespoke to you.
Helen Barley, Helen Barley Harpist
www.helenbarley.co.uk
Music to my ears
Q. What should we consider before booking a string quartet?
A. Lynette Webster says: When does the quartet play? We find it works well playing as the guests arrive and when the bride walks down the aisle and walks out. We can then continue into the drinks reception and break out into our very contemporary repertoire. People are often surprised at how many different genres a string quartet can cover, from classical to things like Guns N' Roses.
Think about how you see the string quartet being a part of your day and get in touch with them to discuss your requirements.
Lynette Webster, Capriccio Quartet
www.capriccioquartet.co.uk
