Frequently Asked Questions

While weddings are the most often requested event for a harpist, the harp is a versatile instrument that is well-suited for all sorts of events. Those include rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, dinner parties, church services, funerals, garden teas, holiday parties, awards banquets, corporate parties, fundraisers, Mother’s Day brunch, and galas.

I typically book up to 15 months in advance. Most of my bookings are received 3-6 months in advance, but availability during peak wedding season (April - October) fills quickly. If your event is in less than one month, availability is limited.

The harp projects quite well on its own. For most quiet indoor events, a guest list of fewer than 80 does not require amplification. For quiet outdoor events, generally amplification is not needed for guest lists fewer than 60.

No, this is a common misconception, especially since harps are often seen at weddings, where classical music has been the norm. In recent years, many more couples have been customizing their wedding soundtracks with modern songs. Though not every song is compatible with the harp, most music can be adapted to the harp.

Yes, I do play outside for celebrations often. The harp requires a shaded spot and an outdoor temperature of at least 50 degrees. I cannot play outoors uncovered in inclement weather.

Yes, I have a small portable amp that I can bring with me to perform. I am excited to share that in 2024 I have started offering amplification for officiants as well. Whether you’d like me to provide amplification or are using another professional, I strongly recommend that everyone is on the same system to reduce feedback.

I offer 3 main packages with the ability to customize each to suit your needs. The standard package includes a wedding ceremony and cocktail hour. Most couples spend between $1600-$2000 for their wedding day music. Reach out to discuss your musical priorities and needs.

Most clients choose to pay via credit card, and I also accept PayPal, Zelle, Venmo, and Google Pay.

Though I typically perform as a soloist, I welcome the opportunity to perform with others. I am happy to reach out to my network to create a duo, trio, or larger group or can work with someone you’ve selected.

Yes! Check out my YouTube channel for full-length vides or follow me on Instagram for quick clips.

Both! I find that the most personal celebrations showcase music that is special to the couple. All of my clients receive a music consultation where we review their inspiration, the mood they want to set, and the best fitting songs for each part of the celebration.

Planning a wedding involves a TON of decision making. I support my clients to variable degrees, whether that is offering light guidance in music selection or choosing the entire soundtrack based on your inspiration.

I recommend selecting up to the following count of songs for each part of the day:

Prelude: 12 songs
Ceremony: 5 songs
Cocktail hour: 20 songs

Most couples choose their “must-haves” and ask me to complement their choices to match the mood.

Yes! I am based in Raleigh, NC but travel throughout the state as well as South Carolina and Virginia. For events 3 or more hours away, there may be an overnight lodging fee. Any travel fees will be disclosed before booking.

I have several connections with harpists in North Carolina and around the country. I keep an updated list of potential substitute harpists who I highly recommend. I have also partnered with music contracting agencies to provide other musicians in cases where the client doesn’t want another harpist.

In my 14 years of performing at weddings and events, this has only happened once (thanks Covid!). Within 24 hours of testing positive, I connected the couple with two available alternative harpists for the couple to select from. They loved who I paired them with!

The difference is mainly in the adaptability of the instruments.

I most often use my Daphne pedal harp, which stands 65” tall. There are seven pedals at the base of the harp which alter the tuning for all 40 strings. The pedals make it possible to accommodate any key, key changes, and accidentals in music.

I also use my Prelude lever harp, which stands 63” tall. The tuning of the strings can be changed by levers at the top of each string. This harp is a little more durable and is used for outdoor weddings in cases where shade is not available.

The lever harp has a brighter sound, while the pedal harp is warmer and more mellow.