What can I expect for a wedding ceremony?

When performing for a wedding ceremony, Laura arrives one hour early to unload and begins prelude music 30 minutes before the ceremony starts. Couples choose processional and recessional pieces from her repertoire, up to 2 song requests not in her repertoire are included in the rate, and she can play during special moments such as a unity candle or private prayer. After the ceremony she plays another 10-15 minutes while guests disperse.

What can I expect for a wedding reception?

Wedding receptions typically last one to two hours. Depending on the venue and guest count, Laura brings her own amplification. The reception is a great time for song requests that are special to the couple and that will help create the desired mood for their guests.

What does the harpist need?

When you inquire, it helps to share date, time, and location; the package you are interested in; indoor or outdoor; and any songs you would like to request.

Do you take song requests?

Yes! Laura loves creating a custom experience for events and song requests are an important part of that process. Share those songs when you first get in touch. If a piece is not already in the repertoire, she needs time to find the sheet music and learn it. (Some requests may carry an extra fee.)

What special considerations are needed for the harp?

The harp is temperature sensitive. Laura can play outdoors between 55 degrees and 90 degrees F. Outdoor events require a flat, dry, well-shaded area. If it is cold or rain is possible, the harp needs to be indoors. For indoor events, the harp must be kept away from open doors, windows, and direct heat. A 5 ft by 5 ft area out of traffic is required for the harp, harpist, and music stand.

What music is in your repertoire?

Laura has over three hours of prepared music for classical, romantic, Disney, Latin, soft rock, and more. See the Music page for recorded samples.

Do you play weddings in Utah County?

Yes. Laura Neil is based in Utah County and regularly plays weddings and events throughout Utah County, the Salt Lake Valley, Provo and Orem, and Park City (quoted custom).

How much does a wedding ceremony harpist cost in Utah?

A ceremony package starts at $650 and includes prelude through postlude, amplification, setup, and a music consultation. Gold, Platinum, and Diamond wedding-day packages start at $850, $1,000, and $1,400. Custom/destination wedding day packages are available. See the Rates page for details.

Any other details I need to know?

When you are ready to book, Laura sends you a signed copy of her contract to review, sign and return with a non-refundable retainer. This will hold your date and Laura begins preparing for your event. The remainder is due at least 24 hours before the event.

Guide

Outdoor harp in Utah: weather, shade, and space

The pedal harp is temperature sensitive. What I need outdoors in Utah, and when we move the ceremony inside.

Laura Neil playing pedal harp at a Utah wedding ceremony

I can play outdoors between 55 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Below that, or if rain is possible, the harp needs to be indoors. Utah spring and fall ceremonies often sit right on that line, so we plan a backup room before the wedding day—not during cocktail hour.

What the harp needs outside

A flat, dry, well-shaded area. Direct sun heats the soundboard and the strings. Wind is hard on pages and on tone. I need a 5 ft by 5 ft space out of traffic for the harp, me, and a music stand. Please keep us away from misters, heaters, and the path guests use between chairs.

Indoors

Keep the harp away from open doors, windows, and direct heat. Temple-adjacent reception centers, garden rooms with garage-style doors, and barns with no shade are the setups I ask the most questions about. Send a photo of the spot if you are unsure.

Amplification

Depending on the venue and guest count, I bring my own amplification. Outdoor lawns and large pavilions usually need it so the processional reads at the back row. Small indoor chapels often do not.

When you inquire, tell me indoor or outdoor, the venue name, and the month. I would rather say “we should plan an indoor backup” early than surprise your coordinator the morning of.