Suzanne Smart - Wedding Ceremony Singer

It may surprise you to hear that one of my favourite weddings was where the bride, her family and many of the guests were hard of hearing. I worked alongside a sign language interpreter who signed the words of the songs I was singing. It was wonderful to see how captivated the guests were and, when it came to the hymns, to see all the guests focussing all their attention on me to lead them gave me a sense that I was really helping people and truly doing something worthwhile. I was humbled and amazed at how many guests took the time to come and tell me, in sign language, how much they had enjoyed my performance.

communicative, passionate, friendly, professional, stress-free

Music is a form of communication. My job is to convey messages and emotions, through both text and melody, and this can have a very powerful effect. For example, I have had people with Alzheimer's Disease, who have been withdrawn and uncommunicative for years, suddenly join in a song!

When planning your music, think about what message and emotions you want to convey to your guests, then look for music with melodies (and text if the music is sung) that fit in with this.

Colouring books at the tables to entertain children during the speeches! It worked like a charm.

I will initially take the details of the ceremony - time, date, venue - and confirm availability. I will then meet you for a free-of-charge consultation to discuss your requirements and the details of your ceremony. At that meeting we will also talk about possible repertoire choices, the type of music you would like, how many pieces you would like me to sing and the options for accompaniment. Should you wish to go ahead with the booking, I will also explain all of the formalities regarding payment and the contract. Following the consultation, I will carry out research to come up with suggested programmes for your ceremony, based on what you have told me during the consultation, and source any additional musicians that may be required. I will then rehearse the music and liaise with your organist, if you have one booked, and any other musicians and keep in touch with you regularly regarding progress. If necessary (e.g. if the bride's entrance needs to be timed) I will attend your wedding rehearsal. On the day, I will arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start of the ceremony. Of course, I will also ensure that you receive a very high quality performance on the day.

I always tell people that, when choosing music, they should listen carefully to both the words and the music of the piece. It should say something about you as a couple and should mean something to you.

I find Livin' on a Prayer by Bon Jovi gets people going but I have to say I've never performed it at a ceremony!

The Carpenters