- 1). Meet with the bride (or the bride and groom) to discuss exactly what she wants for the ceremony. Many brides have specific songs picked out. If the bride doesn't know what song she wants, offer a list of possibilities (see Resources).
- 2). Discuss the attire for the wedding. Find out what the bridesmaids and groomsmen will be wearing. You don't have to wear the same thing as the wedding party, but you do need to wear something that will blend in with the colors and level of formality of the service.
- 3). Discuss the issue of payment. If the bride is a friend or family member, you may not want to be paid. However, if you are looking for a paying gig, discuss in advance how much you require or what the bride is planning to pay for music. Either request payment ahead of time, or mail an invoice after the day of the service. Don't discuss money on the day of the wedding.
- 4). Practice your music thoroughly. You should memorize the piece so that you can devote your emotion and energy toward the expression of the song. You may want to use sheet music or note cards just in case you forget some of the words.
- 5). Plan for the method by which your music will be played. Some wedding singers accompany themselves on an instrument. Others sing with an accompanist or with recorded music. Talk to the bride about how this will work. If possible, enlist someone else to be in charge of the sound. It's better if your sole focus is singing, rather than also having to make sure that microphones, music players, speakers and other factors are in place and operating efficiently.
- 6). Rehearse your song at the wedding rehearsal, if possible. This will give you a chance to see how the entire wedding will be conducted. It also will give the bride and groom a chance to hear the music and request changes if necessary.
- 7). Arrive at the site of the wedding early and conduct a sound check. A sound check is a process in which you sing part or all of your song to make sure that everything is working properly.
- 8). Handle mishaps or interruptions with professionalism. If you forget the words to part of the song, simply hum for a few measures until you find your place. Don't have an emotional outburst or make comments about your mistake. If there are distractions in the audience, such as a crying baby, do your best to ignore the problem and sing your song beautifully.