Classical Guitarist or Harpist?

I would prefer a guitarist myself.

I just went to a wedding with a guitarist, and it was very nice. It put a wonderful personal touch. A guitarist feels more laid back than a harpist.

Thanks! We're definitely going for a very personal wedding, so I'm glad you think that Even though we're having a more laid back wedding instead of a nighttime party atmosphere, I still want it to be elegant. Do you think the guitarist provide the same level of elegance that a harpist could?

I'd say guitarist. I feel that would be easier to amplify. I know it can be done on harps, but I think guitars might have more range.

The harpist will put people to sleep. Guitarist is definitely the better option!

Talk to the harpists on your list to see if they are willing to be outside with their harps for that long. If not, go with a guitarist.

I think harps are more formal and guitars are more versatile.

@Possum, I was wondering about the amplification. It's not like we're going to have walls for the sound to bounce off of, so it will definitely need to be amplified.

@Nancy, we actually did have one harpist say that she doesn't like to be outside for too long, so that wouldn't work. We will have some stuff inside, but all of the main seating will be outside.

I'm surprised to see so many people in favor of guitar. I thought people might like the harp because it's a rarer instrument. But I'm a big fan of the classical style on guitar (it was my minor instrument when I was in college), so I'm happy to do that

Logistically, a guitarist would be much simpler than a harpist. If it's muddy, a harp will sink into the ground. You would definitely need some sort of flooring and something overhead (in case of rain). Harps are made of wood and have a gazillion strings, so if it's humid or cold, the air will send them out of tune quickly. They are also heavy and hauled on dollies, so if your venue is hard to get to or a long walk from parking, then that could be a factor. In my opinion, harp would be heavenly for a wedding, but you have to consider the earthly elements. All the best!

I would vote guitarist. I think a harpist is more formal and you said your wedding will be more laid back. I'm having a guitarist as well.

Classical guitarist

We are having a brunch wedding and opted for a ceremony guitarist. He plays classical as well as contemporary music, and I think it will be nice to have a mix.

Hello all, I see lots of comments discussing how boring harp is or how logistically difficult they are for weddings. As a harpist myself, I'd like to speak about how versatile the instrument can actually be and also to mention that MANY people request harpists for their weddings. First, not all harps are the orchestral-size, nor do they weigh 120+ lbs. Mine is only 16 lbs - it's a Celtic harp, which means it's designed to be portable, lightweight, and doesn't have pedals for those of you that are familiar with harp construction. These are smaller, more light weight, and much more portable. I also play in a Celtic rock band and I'm using my harp like a rhythm guitar. I employ techniques such as strumming the strings and interesting rhythms to mimic modern music. I also play lots of folk music on it, exactly like what might be played on guitar. Many MANY other harpists do this today. Last, many harpists now own electric harps - they are strapped to their shoulder so the harp can be played standing (mud or dirt not a concern for the instrument) and can be plugged directly into a small amplifier for larger venues - making the smaller instrument much more versatile and usable. While the wooden Celtic harps will still come with weather and tuning issues, so will your guitarist - no guitarist will play in the rain, so a tent is going to be needed regardless if there is a chance of inclement weather. The electric models completely remove the tuning issue since they are typically made out of fiberglass - not wood. All in all, if you know a harpist with an electric and you are concerned about formality, tuning issues and the harpist dragging around a 120+ lb instrument on a dolly, see if any of your local harpists have electric instruments that can be strapped to their shoulder. You will have the dual benefits of both elegance and modernity, and no one will ever forget it.