George Boyle
Music is an integral part of any wedding, and choosing the right songs can be a daunting task. The music played at a wedding will set the tone for the entire event, from the prelude music while guests are being seated, to the processional songs for the wedding party's entrance, and, of course, the all-important first dance as a married couple. The recessional song, which plays when the newlyweds exit the ceremony, should be happy and lively, and there are other key moments throughout the reception to consider, such as the cake-cutting and the last dance. This paragraph will explore the different songs to consider for a wedding and offer guidance on how to structure the music for the big day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prelude music | Light, ambient music that sets the mood while guests are being seated. |
| Processional song | Accompanies the entry of the extended wedding party, including family, attendants, and the bride. |
| Recessional song | Played when the couple exits the ceremony as husband and wife, traditionally bright, lively, and celebratory. |
| Signing the register | A song, or two, played while the couple signs the register, which can be more upbeat. |
| Cocktail hour | Music sets the mood for the reception, with no specific moments requiring certain songs. |
| Dinner | A mellow playlist or live music is recommended. |
| First dance | A sentimental moment for the couple, often a personal choice. |
| Mother/son and father/daughter dance | A meaningful ballad is usually chosen for this portion of the evening. |
| Cake-cutting | A fun, upbeat song to accompany a lighthearted moment. |
| Bouquet and garter toss | A cheeky song is often chosen for these traditional moments. |
| Last dance | A slow song to wind down the festivities, not as emotionally impactful as the first dance. |
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What You'll Learn
- Prelude music: light, ambient music played while guests are being seated
- Processional music: played during the entry of the extended wedding party, including family, attendants and bride
- Recessional music: played when the couple exit the ceremony as husband and wife
- Unity candle lighting or ketubah signing: some couples add interludes or songs during these moments
- First dance: a sentimental moment, often a couple's favourite song
Prelude music: light, ambient music played while guests are being seated
Prelude music is light, ambient music that sets the mood while guests are being seated and waiting for the ceremony to begin. Prelude songs can be instrumental, country, indie, or pop, depending on the type of wedding. They are usually calm and harmonious, creating a relaxed atmosphere for the guests.
Prelude music typically starts when the doors open, or as early as 45 minutes before the ceremony begins, but no later than 20 minutes prior. This means you'll need between five and 10 songs for this pre-ceremony period. It's a good idea to choose songs that are around 3 to 4 minutes long to fill this time.
When selecting prelude music, consider songs that are welcoming and set the right tone for your wedding. You might want to choose songs that are meaningful to you as a couple or that reflect the theme and style of your wedding. For example, if you're having a rustic or outdoor wedding, you might choose folk or country songs.
- "Lucky" by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat for a non-traditional, rustic, or outdoor wedding.
- "Tenerife Sea" by Ed Sheeran, a romantic tune with catchy acoustics.
- "La Vie En Rose" by Louis Armstrong, a classic for jazz lovers.
- "January Wedding" by The Avett Brothers, a lovely folk tune for a rustic or January wedding.
- "God Only Knows" by John Legend and Cynthia Erivo ft. yMusic, a soulful classic with a slower pace to start your special day.
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Processional music: played during the entry of the extended wedding party, including family, attendants and bride
Processional music is played during the entry of the extended wedding party, including family, attendants, and the bride. This is one of the most memorable parts of the wedding day, so you'll want to choose entrance songs that will help set the tone for the event. The same song can be used for each entrance, but you may want to switch to a different song when the bride enters to add drama and highlight their grand entrance.
The number of processional songs you'll need depends on the number of people walking down the aisle and the length of the aisle. Usually, people choose two processional songs: one for the family and wedding party, and then a more dramatic and emotional song for the bridal processional. For example, you could play a classic, sweet song like "Over the Rainbow" for the flower girl and ring bearer, and then switch to a fun, upbeat track like Beyoncé's "Crazy in Love" for the bridesmaids and groomsmen.
You'll also want to consider the walking pace when selecting the songs, as your wedding party will be attempting to walk to the rhythm. It's a good idea to practice walking to the music and, if possible, arrange a rehearsal in the shoes you'll be wearing.
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Recessional music: played when the couple exit the ceremony as husband and wife
The recessional music is played when the couple exit the ceremony as newlyweds. It's the first song you'll hear as a married couple, so it should be memorable and triumphant. It's also the start of the party, so choose something upbeat and celebratory to get your guests grooving.
There are no steadfast rules when it comes to choosing a recessional song. You can opt for a classical instrumental piece, a sacred wedding song, an acoustic cover, traditional cultural music, or a current hit. If you want to have some fun, you could choose a recognizable, movie-ending closer, like "Wake Up" by Arcade Fire, or a fun throwback like "Hey Ya" by Outkast or "I Gotta Feeling" by The Black Eyed Peas. For a classic, you can't go wrong with a timeless hit by The Beatles or Stevie Wonder.
If you're looking for something more traditional, the "Wedding March" from A Midsummer Night's Dream by Mendelssohn is a classic choice. Or, if you want to add a unique sound to your wedding ceremony exit song, consider hiring a wedding ceremony musician to do an acoustic cover of a popular song. A string quartet, pianist, harpist or guitarist are all great options.
Remember, the recessional song is a crucial part of your wedding as it sets the tone for the party that's about to begin. Choose something that reflects the excitement and joy you're feeling inside.
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Unity candle lighting or ketubah signing: some couples add interludes or songs during these moments
Unity candle lighting and ketubah signing are both significant moments in a wedding ceremony. Unity candle ceremonies are a timeless and popular ritual, symbolizing the joining of two lives into one. The couple uses two small taper candles to light a larger 'unity candle', representing their commitment to each other. This ritual is often performed after the couple has exchanged vows and rings, although it can take place at any time during the ceremony. The taper candles can be lit before the ceremony or during the ritual by the couple or any other participants.
In Jewish weddings, the ketubah is signed before the marriage ceremony. The ketubah is a Jewish wedding contract, signed during a small ceremony, which can include a moment of silence and the lighting of memorial candles for lost loved ones.
Couples can add interludes or songs to these moments to enhance the atmosphere and make them more memorable. The music can be religious or non-religious, depending on the couple's beliefs and preferences. It can be performed by a musician or played as background music.
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First dance: a sentimental moment, often a couple's favourite song
The first dance is often one of the most memorable and sentimental moments of a wedding day. It is a chance for the newlyweds to share a special moment together and perform a romantic routine before the reception.
Choosing the right song for the first dance is crucial, and it is a very personal decision. Couples may opt for a slow ballad, an upbeat tune, or something entirely unique. The song may hold a specific memory, like the first song the couple slow-danced to, or it could be chosen based on the lyrics and their significance to the couple. Some popular choices include classics like "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley, "At Last" by Etta James, and more recent hits like "Joy of My Life" by Chris Stapleton.
To make the dance even more special, couples can consider dance lessons to boost their confidence and add some style to their performance. They can also decide whether they want to keep the dance traditional or add a unique twist, such as switching leads during the dance or including a planned dip or twirl to surprise their guests and create memorable photo opportunities.
Practising the dance in advance is highly recommended to make the performance feel natural and enjoyable. Couples can even blend multiple songs together for a seamless, personalised experience. Knowing the size and shape of the dance floor in advance can also help couples feel more comfortable and prepared for their big moment.
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Frequently asked questions
The bridal entry song is a personal choice, but it's often dramatic and emotional. It's a good idea to practise walking to the music in advance, especially if you're wearing heels.
The ceremony is more structured and formal, and different faiths and traditions may incorporate different moments. If you're having a religious ceremony, check with the musical director at your venue to find out if they have an approved song list.
It's nice to have a song, or even two, while you sign the register. This is often a more relaxed moment, so you could choose a slightly more upbeat song. In some traditions, wedding guests sing hymns during this part of the ceremony.
The recessional song is played when you exit the ceremony as a married couple. It's traditionally bright, lively and celebratory, reflecting your joy. You could even have a dance routine!
Your reception will include a combination of formal and informal musical moments. The cocktail hour soundtrack can set the mood for your entire reception, so choose your songs carefully! The first dance as a married couple will be a sentimental moment, so you might want to choose 'your song'.
