Franklin Dean
Music is an integral part of a wedding reception, and the number of songs you'll need depends on various factors, including the length of your reception, the size of your venue, and your personal preferences. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan your wedding reception music and ensure you have a memorable celebration.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of songs | Between 5 and 10 songs for the pre-ceremony period, depending on the length of the prelude. |
| Prelude | Light, ambient music that sets the mood while guests are being seated and waiting for the ceremony to begin. |
| Processional | One song for the officiant, attendants, and family members. One song for the attendants, ring bearer, and flower girl. One song for the bride. |
| Signing | Two songs for signing the register. |
| Recessional | One song for the couple's walk down the aisle. |
| Postlude | More lively, up-tempo music played while guests exit the ceremony. |
| Cocktail hour | No specific songs required, but music should be played to set the mood for the reception. |
| Dinner | Background music or a continuation of the cocktail hour soundtrack. |
| First dance | A special song chosen by the couple. |
| Last dance | A fun and enjoyable song to end the celebration. |
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What You'll Learn
Prelude/pre-ceremony music
Prelude music, or pre-ceremony music, is an important part of your wedding day as it sets the tone for the entire celebration. It's the first music your guests will hear, and it will create the ambiance as they arrive and take their seats.
The number of songs you choose for your prelude music depends on how long you want the music to play before the ceremony begins. It's recommended that you have music playing for around 30 minutes before the ceremony starts, and a safe number of songs for this period is between five and ten. You can choose to have music playing as guests arrive and continue it as background music while they take their seats, or you can opt for separate songs for each segment.
The style of music you choose for your prelude should reflect your personal taste as a couple and the overall style and vibe of your wedding. For a rustic wedding, contemporary acoustic songs or soft acoustic tracks can be a great choice. For a traditional ceremony, classical music and instrumental pieces are often selected. You can also opt for modern songs or those with lyrics, but it's best to avoid anything that will overpower your guests' conversations.
- Instrumental and acoustic versions of popular modern-day love songs, such as "The One" by an indie Irish band, or a soulful cover of "God Only Knows" by John Legend and Cynthia Erivo.
- Classical arrangements and traditional ceremony songs like Pachelbel's Canon or "Here Comes the Bride."
- Romantic and dramatic '90s ballads, such as a song from The Notebook, or a Latino pop duet with lyrics like "I don't know why / But every time I look into your eyes / I see a thousand falling shooting stars and yes I love you."
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Processional songs
The number of songs you'll need for your wedding reception will depend on the style and vibe you want to create. However, there are a few key moments during the reception that will require specific songs.
The processional songs are played during the wedding party's entrance and the couple's entrance. These songs can be chosen to match the wedding style, family and friends, and the couple's love story. For younger members of the wedding party, like the ring bearer or flower girl, a classic, sweet song like "Over the Rainbow" is a good choice. For the bridesmaids and groomsmen, a fun, upbeat track like "Crazy in Love" by Beyoncé can kick things off. For the couple's entrance, a classic like Pachelbel's Canon or something more modern and unconventional can be chosen.
- "Chasing Cars" by Snow Patrol
- "All I've Ever Known" by Hadestown
- "Wild World" by Eric Clapton
- "Counting Stars" by OneRepublic
- "Ashitaka and San" by Joe Hisaishi
- "The Shire" from Lord of the Rings
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Signing songs
The number of songs you choose for your wedding reception ultimately depends on personal preference and the length of your wedding party. However, there are a few key moments during the ceremony and reception that you may want to consider choosing specific songs for.
For the signing of the register, couples typically choose two songs to be played. These songs are often meaningful to the couple and create a romantic atmosphere during the signing. It is a good idea to choose songs that are at least 30 seconds long to allow enough time for the signing.
When selecting your signing songs, it is important to consider the vocalist or musician's comfort level with the songs. Working together to build a song list that satisfies both parties ensures that the vocalist feels confident and comfortable during the performance.
Additionally, if you plan to have live music during the cocktail hour, it is advisable to share the set list with your DJ to avoid any song crossovers and ensure a seamless musical flow throughout the event.
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Recessional songs
The number of songs you will need for your wedding reception depends on the style and vibe you want to create. You will need music for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. A DJ can help you with the music choices and keep the music flowing. You can also create a playlist of your favourite songs.
Now, for the recessional songs! These are played at the end of the ceremony when the newlyweds and wedding party walk up the aisle. There are no steadfast rules when it comes to choosing recessional songs. You can opt for a classical instrumental piece, a traditional cultural tune, or a current hit. The only rule is that it should be thoughtful, romantic, and a sentimental choice for you and your partner.
- "Golden Hour" by Kacey Musgraves
- "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole
- "The Fire That Keeps You Warm" by Dolly Parton
- "Great Escape" by Boys Like Girls
- "Best Day of My Life" by American Authors
- "Home" by Edward and the Sharps
- "Paper Rings" by Taylor Swift
- "Don't Stop Me Now" by Queen
- "All The Small Things" by Blink 182
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Cocktail hour/reception music
Music is an integral part of a wedding reception, and the cocktail hour is no exception. It can help elevate the ambiance and entertain your guests as they socialise over drinks and hors d'oeuvres. Here are some tips and ideas for choosing the perfect cocktail hour music for your wedding reception:
Choose Music that Reflects Your Taste and Style
It's your special day, so feel free to choose music that reflects your personal style and taste. If you and your partner have unique or unconventional music tastes, consider incorporating acoustic or piano versions of heavier songs or finding creative ways to include your favourite video game or movie soundtracks. You can also opt for a mix of genres, such as R&B, pop, rock, or a blend of both classic and contemporary tunes. If you're unsure where to start, check out Spotify or other music streaming platforms for wedding cocktail hour playlists.
Set the Right Mood and Vibe
The cocktail hour is usually a time for guests to relax and mingle, so most couples opt for songs that exude romance or create a relaxing atmosphere. You can choose uplifting or happy tracks that promote good conversation and get everyone in the mood to dance. If you want something more upbeat, consider songs like "Feel This Moment" by Pitbull and Christina Aguilera or "Coastin'" by Victoria Monet. For a more glamorous ballroom venue, classic songs by Frank Sinatra or the Rat Pack can set the right tone. Alternatively, a barn wedding might call for some country music or your favourite country songs.
Hire Live Musicians or a DJ
You can add a touch of elegance to your cocktail hour by hiring live musicians. A solo acoustic guitarist, pianist, harpist, or a full string quartet can provide beautiful background music for your guests. If you prefer something more energetic, you could hire a wedding band or a DJ to get your guests grooving. Discuss your musical preferences and expectations with your musicians or DJ ahead of time to ensure they can meet your needs.
Create a Must-Play and Play-If-Possible List
To ensure your favourite songs are played, create a "Must-Play" list for your DJ or band. This list should include your top 15 songs that hold a special meaning for you and your partner. Additionally, provide them with a "Play-If-Possible" list of 15-30 songs that they can choose from at their discretion. Don't forget to include a "Do-Not-Play" list to avoid any unwanted surprises!
Plan Ahead and Be Mindful of Your Guests
Don't leave your music choices until the last minute. Start planning early and browse through various options to find the perfect fit. While it's essential to choose music that represents you as a couple, also consider your guests' enjoyment. If you have a unique taste in music, you may need to compromise by including some crowd-pleasers that you know your guests will appreciate.
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Frequently asked questions
The number of songs you need depends on the vibe you want to create and the length of your reception. You'll need at least one song for the bridal entrance, and you may want to include songs for other key moments, such as the signing of the register, the departure of the bridal party, and the last dance. You should also consider playing background music as your guests arrive and during dinner.
You'll need between five and ten songs for the prelude/pre-ceremony, which is usually around 15-30 minutes of light, ambient music.
The number of songs you need for the processional depends on the number of people walking down the aisle and the length of the aisle. You'll need at least one song for the bridal entrance, and you may want to use different songs for other members of the wedding party.
You'll need at least one song for the recessional, which is played as the couple walks down the aisle after the ceremony.
