Music Choices
There is not much protocol here. Ask if you have another tune in mind - some popular songs can be adapted. Unfortunately many cannot because they don't fit the bagpipes' limited range and peculiar scale.

Appearance
For an evening service, kilted formalwear is appropriate if the bridegroom and his men are wearing formal clothing. A day jacket or Highland shirt does well for balmy afternoon occasions that are more casual. An authentic look for renaissance weddings is also easily arranged, as is Highland military dress. Most clients seem to prefer me dressed as dramatically as possible.

Special Accommodations
For many, the performance is to be a surprise, so assistance may be necessary upon arrival to remain inconspicuous and tune out of earshot. Bagpipes are persnickety because the reeds (4 total) are not kept stable in the mouth like a saxophone, and can go out of tune when idled.

It is particularly helpful to provide an assistant who can remain with me and provide signals to begin, go stage left, etc. Often the wedding co-ordinator sees to this and she is kept informed about last moment changes. I have experienced circumstances where details changed at the last minute and I was not kept informed - weren't disasters, but...

And if you're having an outdoor wedding, a suitable cover or an alternative location in the event the weather goes wet is appreciated.

Photography
Because a piper is a prominent part of the ceremony, most couples want me in the wedding day photos. No problem.

Performance Fee
Each event is a custom assignment. Based on your event date and specific requirements, an exact price can be obtained in the initial e-mail/telephone contact. Expect to pay extra for travel outside my typical area. Amount of playing time is another consideration. For example, when requesting to play at an afternoon ceremony and an evening reception, up to several hours, perhaps a whole day are needed to set aside.

Have a contract or legal document. Doing so, both parties know what is expected of the other. It is hardly reasonable for the piper to leave the wedding paid for obligations unfulfilled, nor is it fair to expect the piper to remain and play for a party that goes well into the evening with no extra compensation.

I have a simple Agreement for both parties that is preferable. Arrangements are done via e-mail for simplicity and convenience.

An additional 'learning fee' may be applicable if there's a special request to learn music outside my repertoire.

To secure your date, a non-refundable deposit is necessary. This is usually 35-40 percent of the total amount. Without a deposit, a specific date or time cannot be guaranteed.

Ceremony Alternative
Some in the family can be fiercely opposed to pipe music (never heard it done properly). Or perhaps I have a previous engagement and cannot make it to your ceremony in time. A number of clients have compromised by having me at the rehearsal dinner only. Usually this is a complete surprise to someone: bride, groom, Scottish grandma, etc. The most popular time seems to be around dessert time, or before speeches begin. The usual modus operandi is to have me "burst" into the banquet room playing something lively and continue with a few assorted tunes. Everyone'll be on their feet instantly. The fewer who know what's about to occur, the better the effect.