Top tips for booking a wedding harpist like the ones we are giving you today through this post will surely transform your wedding day from incredible to unforgettable.
Booking a harpist is one of the most elegant ways to add refinement and romance to your wedding day. The harp is not just an instrument; it is a symbol of serenity, intimacy, and timeless beauty. Imagine walking down the aisle to the delicate notes of your favourite song, reimagined on shimmering harp strings. The effect is unforgettable — transporting you and your guests into an atmosphere of magic.
Yet as enchanting as it is, there are a few practicalities to consider when planning for a harpist at your celebration. To guide you through them, we’ve turned to professional harpist Harriet Flather, who has performed at more than 300 weddings. Her experience highlights how thoughtful planning ensures both the harpist and the music reach their full potential on your special day.
Here are Harriet’s six top tips — plus some additional insights from Wislocki Music — to help you make the most of this romantic choice.
Top tips for booking a wedding harpist
1 – Inside/outside makes a huge difference
Outdoor weddings are increasingly popular in the UK, and a harpist can provide the perfect soundtrack to an al fresco ceremony or drinks reception. However, the harp is a delicate, finely crafted instrument that requires care.
- Weather sensitivity: Direct sunlight can warp the wood, while rain or even damp air can cause lasting damage.
- Surface requirements: Harps must be placed on a stable, hard, and flat surface. Grass or uneven ground can make playing uncomfortable and risky.
- Shelter: If you’d like your harpist outside, provide a marquee, canopy, or parasol to protect both harpist and instrument.
These considerations may seem small, but they can make the difference between a stressful performance and a seamless, beautiful one.
2 – Consider Access and Logistics for your harpist too!
Harps are large and heavy to manoeuvre. A supportive venue layout makes all the difference.
- Parking: Always reserve a close parking spot.
- Lifts and ramps: If your venue has stairs, arrange ramps or ensure a lift is available.
- Set-up: Allow extra time for your harpist to move the instrument and settle before guests arrive.
Your harpist will thank you for these thoughtful arrangements, and your music will flow without unnecessary stress.
3 – Choosing the right music for the harp to truly shine
The harp is versatile, but it shines in certain styles more than others. Think Bridgerton elegance rather than Ibiza nightlife. Romantic ballads, classical pieces, and acoustic-style pop songs all work wonderfully. Songs that rely heavily on percussion or bass are less suitable.
A harpist can usually provide a wide repertoire, from Bach to Beyoncé. Here are a few favourites couples often request:
- Processional (walking down the aisle):
Canon in D – Pachelbel
A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
Clair de Lune – Debussy - Signing of the register:
River Flows in You – Yiruma
Perfect – Ed Sheeran
The Swan – Saint-Saëns - Recessional (walking back as newlyweds):
All You Need Is Love – The Beatles
Kissing You – Des’ree
Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles - Drinks reception / background:
Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley
Hallelujah – Leonard Cohen
Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
These choices create atmosphere across the different moments of the day, while allowing your harpist to showcase the instrument’s natural beauty.
4 – Number of guests
The harp is, by nature, a gentle instrument. In smaller, intimate weddings of up to around 50 guests, it can be heard beautifully without amplification. For larger gatherings, particularly during a meal or in spacious venues, microphones or subtle amplification may be necessary.
Another option is to pair the harp with other instruments — a violin, cello, or flute — to add volume and texture while keeping the same refined ambience. Wislocki Music often recommends such ensembles for luxury weddings where both atmosphere and audibility are priorities.
5 – Children!
Children are often captivated by the harp’s grand presence and shimmering strings. While curiosity is natural, harps are surprisingly fragile and can be damaged by a bump, sticky fingers, or enthusiastic exploration.
Encourage supervised interaction — children can admire the harp, but not touch it unless invited. This keeps everyone safe while still allowing little ones to enjoy the magic of live music.
6 – Make Sure Your Harpist is Supported!
As with all wedding suppliers, your harpist will give their best performance when they feel supported and have everything they need.
- Ensure refreshments are available (most contracts specify soft drinks).
- Let your ushers or venue team know to assist with carrying items if needed.
- Allow the harpist a comfortable break space if performing for several hours.
These thoughtful touches not only show respect but also allow your harpist to focus fully on creating exquisite music.
The Emotional Impact of a Harpist
These tips for booking a wedding harpist might sound complicated. We know.
Beyond logistics, remember the true reason you are considering a harpist for your wedding: atmosphere. The harp creates an unmatched sense of intimacy and romance. Guests often describe its sound as calming yet uplifting, adding a serene backdrop that enhances the emotion of every moment.
Whether accompanying your walk down the aisle, underscoring the signing of the register, or providing elegance during cocktails, harp music elevates the experience for everyone present. It creates memories your guests will recall long after the day has ended.
Final Thoughts on these Top Tips for Booking a Wedding Harpist
These tips may seem practical, but they are the foundation for ensuring your harpist can perform at their very best. By planning ahead, you allow the music to flow effortlessly, bringing beauty and sophistication to your day.
✨ At Wislocki Music, we specialise in matching couples with exceptional live musicians — from harpists to string quartets and full party bands. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate ceremony soundtracked by harp or a full day of curated music, our team will ensure your celebration is unforgettable.
📩 Enquire with Wislocki today to explore our harpists and other luxury music options for your wedding. From ceremony to reception, let us help you craft a soundtrack as unique as your love story.