Deborah Chan
Music is an integral part of a wedding, from setting the tone and style of the event to creating a romantic atmosphere. The songs played at a wedding can forever remind the couple of their special day. While it may be overwhelming to choose songs for the entire event, there are a few important ones to consider. From prelude music while guests are being seated to the processional song played while the wedding party enters, the recessional song, and the couple's first dance, these songs will create lasting memories. Some couples also choose to have separate songs for their parents' entrances and a mother/son or father/daughter dance. The cake-cutting, bouquet and garter toss, and last dance are other moments that call for their own musical accompaniment.
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What You'll Learn
Prelude music for guests being seated
Prelude music is an important aspect of your wedding, as it sets the tone and style of your ceremony. Prelude music, also known as pre-ceremony music, is played as guests arrive and take their seats before the ceremony begins. This is usually around 30 minutes before the festivities, so you'll need to select approximately 5-10 songs for this part of the day.
Prelude music should evoke emotions in your guests and create a romantic atmosphere. It can be played by a live musician or DJ, or from your own curated playlist. Prelude music can be traditional, modern, or religious, depending on your preferences and the vibe you want to create. You might want to consider the walking pace of your wedding party when selecting these songs, as they will be walking to the rhythm.
For a timeless wedding, classical music is a popular choice for prelude songs. You could also consider instrumental music, such as Yiruma's piano compositions, or a string quartet. If you prefer more modern music, you can find instrumental covers of almost any song. For a unique touch, you could even choose songs from your favourite movies or TV shows, such as "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1" or "Bridgerton".
Remember, your prelude music is the first impression of your wedding, so take the time to select songs that reflect your style and set the right mood for the ceremony.
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Processional songs for the wedding party's entrance
Music is an integral part of a wedding, and choosing the right songs for the right moments can be a daunting task. The processional song is played as the wedding party makes their way down the aisle at the start of the ceremony. This includes songs for the bridal party, the bride, the groom, the flower girl, the ring bearer, the bridesmaids, and the groomsmen.
If you're planning a formal affair, you may want to stick with traditional, classical wedding processional songs that are familiar to everyone. On the other hand, many couples choose to break tradition and explore unique wedding processional songs for their ceremony. You can opt for modern hits or even choreograph a fun dance for the wedding party's entrance to add a personal touch to your celebration.
For younger members of the wedding party, like the ring bearer or the flower girl, you can play a classic, sweet song like "Over the Rainbow." For the bridesmaids and groomsmen, you might want to choose a fun, upbeat track like Beyoncé's "Crazy in Love" to kick things off. If you have a larger wedding party, you can even choose an additional song specifically for the groomsmen to give them a special moment.
For the bride's entrance, you'll want to choose something bold and unique to match the moment everyone looks forward to. While some couples opt for a classic instrumental option, others might go for a modern favourite. The groom might choose a sentimental song by his favourite band for his entrance.
Finally, don't forget to consider the walking pace when selecting your songs, as your wedding party will be attempting to walk to the rhythm. Rehearse walking to your processional song to feel confident and relaxed on your big day.
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Signing the register
You might want to opt for a rousing ballad or romantic acoustic love song. Modern artists have released many romantic wedding songs in recent years, which are perfect for signing the register. For example, you could choose "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri, "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran, or "A Moment Like This" by Kelly Clarkson.
If you want to create a light-hearted moment, you could choose a funny song, such as "Never Gonna Give You Up" by Rick Astley, "Happy" by Pharrell Williams, or "Call Me Maybe" by Carly Rae Jepsen.
In some traditions, wedding guests sing hymns during the signing of the register. You may need to choose an approved hymn from a songbook. Alternatively, you could hire a singer or play music from Spotify.
You may also want to consider the pace of the song, as you and your wedding party will be walking to the rhythm. You could also choose to have a musician, such as a guitarist or pianist, play instrumental songs as background music.
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Recessional songs for the exit
Wedding recessional songs, also known as wedding exit songs, are played as the couple walks back down the aisle as newlyweds while the guests cheer and clap. This is a joyous and celebratory moment, and the music should reflect the excitement and happiness you feel inside. The recessional song is the first thing you'll hear as a married couple, so choose something thoughtful and romantic, or perhaps an upbeat number that will have your guests grooving.
There are no rules when it comes to choosing a wedding recessional song. You can go for a classical instrumental piece, a traditional wedding song, an acoustic cover, traditional cultural music, or a current hit. Opt for something that holds a special meaning for you and your partner. If you love the idea of live music, consider hiring a string quartet, pianist, harpist, or guitarist to play an acoustic cover of a popular song.
- "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole
- "You're the One That I Want" from Grease, by Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta
- "Don't Go Breaking My Heart" by Elton John ft. Kiki Dee
- "Gold Digger" by Kayne West ft. Jamie Foxx
- "It Had to Be You" by Harry Connick, Jr.
- "A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Op. 61 Incidental Music: No. 9 Wedding March" by Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra & George Szell
- "I Was Born To Love You (Extended Version)" by Freddie Mercury
Remember, you can also ask your wedding DJ or musician for suggestions and guidance. They will be familiar with the songs typically played at weddings and can help you create the perfect playlist.
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First dance
The first dance as a married couple is a moment you'll never forget. It's a chance for you and your partner to shine and express your love story. The song you choose will be one of the most personal decisions you make for your wedding, and it's no wonder that couples spend months weighing their options.
There are a few ways to approach choosing the right song. You might want to consider the pace of the song, the dance style, and your ability to dance to it. The "sway" is the classic first dance style, along with the Waltz and the Foxtrot, but you could also opt for a choreographed dance. You could choose a slow ballad that feels romantic and sums up the moment, or something more upbeat and lighthearted that reflects your personalities.
Another approach is to choose a song that holds a special memory for you as a couple. Perhaps it was the first song you ever danced to, or something you both love. You could also look for a song with lyrics that resonate with your relationship. If you're having trouble deciding, you can narrow it down to a specific genre and consider the lyrics of popular first dance songs to find one that suits you.
- "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley
- "At Last" by Etta James
- "Joy of My Life" by Chris Stapleton
- "Life With You" by Kelsey Hart
- "Perfect" by Ed Sheeran
- "Fade Into You" by Mazzy Star
- "I'm Going To Go Back There Someday" from The Muppet Movie
- "Scene One - James Dean and Audrey Hepburn" by Sleeping with Sirens
- "I Only Have Eyes For You" by The Flamingos
- "Wanna Grow Old with You" by Adam Sandler
- "Your Song" by Billy Joel
- "Louie Louie" by The Kingsmen
- "Bloom" by Paper Kites
- "I Will Follow You Into The Dark" by Death Cab For Cutie
- "Always" by Blink-182
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Frequently asked questions
It's a good idea to choose your wedding songs well in advance of the big day. You'll need to decide on songs for the ceremony and reception, and you may want to consult with your wedding planner, DJ or band to finalise the perfect playlist.
The number of songs you choose will depend on the length of your wedding and the number of important moments you want to highlight with music. You'll need music for the prelude, processional, and recessional, and you may want to choose specific songs for the bridal party's entrance, the signing of the register, and the first dance. You might also want to include interludes for significant moments such as the unity candle lighting or the cake-cutting.
The songs you choose for your wedding will depend on your personal taste and the vibe you want to create. You might want to include a mix of sentimental and upbeat songs, and you can select songs from different genres and moods to reflect the different moments of the wedding.
