George Boyle
Music is an integral part of a wedding reception, setting the tone for the party and reflecting the couple's personality. The right songs can make your wedding reception memorable and enjoyable for you and your guests. From pre-ceremony music to the first dance and exit songs, knowing when to play certain tunes can elevate the entire celebration. Planning the perfect soundtrack for your wedding involves understanding the different segments of the reception and choosing appropriate music for each part. Whether you opt for a DJ or a live band, careful selection and timing of music will ensure your wedding reception is a success.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Music during pre-ceremony | Light classical music, chilled piano or guitar |
| Music for the processional | Music should be played when VIPs, officiants, grandparents, parents, wedding party members and the couple walk down the aisle |
| Music for the bride's entrance | A different song from the processional music |
| Music during unity candle/sand ceremony | Instrumental music played at low volume |
| Music during the recessional | Bright, lively, celebratory and joyful music |
| Music during cocktail hour | Acoustic artists, 80s tunes, jazz, standards |
| Music during dinner | R&B, Jazz, or easy listening played at low volume |
| Music during toasts/speeches | Music should not be played |
| Music during the first dance | Slow and romantic |
| Music for the father/daughter and mother/son dance | N/A |
| Music for the grand entrance | High energy and meaningful |
| Music for the dance floor | Upbeat music, live music, unique tunes, classic hits, country music, new pop songs |
| Music for the exit | "Bye Bye Bye" by *NSYNC, "HOT TO GO!" by Chappell Roan |
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Pre-ceremony music
The music played at your wedding reception is the soundtrack to the biggest party of your life. The pre-ceremony music, or prelude music, is the first impression of your event and sets the tone for the celebration. Prelude music is played as guests arrive at your wedding ceremony, approximately 30 minutes before the festivities begin. It is not a requirement to provide entertainment for this period, but it's a good idea to have some music playing to fill the time and get people excited.
The number of songs you'll need for the pre-ceremony period depends on when the doors open and how long you plan to play music before the ceremony. A safe number is between five and 10 songs, or around 30 minutes of music. You can choose to have live musicians or a wedding DJ play the prelude music, or you can create your own playlist.
The songs you select should match the overall style and vibe of your wedding. For a rustic wedding in nature, contemporary acoustic songs are a great choice, while a traditional ceremony might call for classical, instrumental music. If you're having a religious ceremony, you may want to choose music that reflects this. You can also consider whether you want music with or without lyrics. Generally, mellow songs are a good choice for the pre-ceremony period, saving more energetic songs for later in the evening.
When selecting a wedding DJ or musicians, it's important to communicate your preferences and work together to create a playlist that reflects your style and sets the right tone. A professional DJ will be skilled at reading the crowd and keeping the party going, so it's a good idea to seek their guidance and advice on the latest wedding music trends.
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Processional music
The processional music at a wedding reception is an important part of the day and can be used to set the tone for the event. It usually accompanies the entry of the wedding party, including family, attendants, and the bride, and can be used to build excitement before the bride's entrance.
The number of processional songs you'll need will depend on the number of people walking down the aisle and the length of the aisle. Most couples choose two songs: one for the family and wedding party, and a more dramatic and emotional song for the bridal processional. However, you can opt to use the same song for everyone or change it up to add drama and highlight the bride's entrance.
You can choose any style of music for your processional, from classical to modern, and instrumental to choral. If you're planning a formal affair, you may want to stick with traditional, classical wedding songs. However, if you want to break with tradition, you can explore unique processional songs that reflect your personality as a couple and your love story.
Some couples opt to choreograph a fun dance for the wedding party's entrance to add a personalised touch to their celebration. You can also incorporate music into other parts of the ceremony, such as during a ritual like lighting a unity candle or during a natural break instead of a reading.
Remember that the music you play at your wedding reception is a reflection of you as a couple and the type of reception you want to have. It's a good idea to work with a professional DJ or musician who can help guide you through the process and keep the party going all night long.
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Bride's entrance
Music plays a crucial role in setting the tone and creating lasting memories of your wedding day. For the bride's entrance, the music choice is especially important as it accompanies one of the most memorable moments of the celebration. Here are some tips and ideas to consider:
- Timing and Song Length: The timing of the bride's entrance is crucial. Typically, the bride's grand entrance into the reception venue occurs after the introduction of the wedding party. This entrance often includes a dramatic reveal, with all eyes on the bride. To ensure a graceful and seamless entrance, time the music to align with your stride. Choose a song with an introduction that builds anticipation and excitement, and aim for a length that accommodates your walk, especially if you are walking slowly to savour the moment.
- Song Selection: The song chosen for the bride's entrance is a personal decision and can vary depending on your preferences and the theme of your wedding. Some popular choices include:
- Classical Music: Traditional bridal marches, such as "Wedding March" by Mendelssohn or "Canon in D" by Pachelbel, are timeless and elegant choices that evoke a sense of grandeur and romance.
- Contemporary Songs: Modern songs that hold special meaning for the couple or reflect their love story can be a wonderful choice. Consider songs with uplifting and celebratory lyrics that showcase your unique style and personality.
- Instrumental Versions: Opting for instrumental versions of popular songs can create a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere. Whether it's a contemporary hit or a classic rock ballad, an instrumental rendition can provide a beautiful backdrop for your entrance without distracting from the moment.
Personalization: Adding a personal touch to your song choice can make the moment even more memorable. Consider incorporating:
Cultural Traditions: Incorporating cultural or regional music can be a wonderful way to honour your heritage. Whether it's a traditional folk song or a well-known melody from your cultural background, it can add a
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Dinner music
Music played during dinner should be at a low volume to allow guests to talk amongst themselves. It is often a good idea to opt for instrumental music, or softer genres such as R&B, jazz, or easy listening. This is a good time to play songs that are meaningful to the couple, perhaps telling their love story, and creating moments to reflect.
If you are hiring a DJ, they will be skilled at reading the crowd and keeping the party going, so it is a good idea to let them do their thing. However, it is important to give them some guidance on the type of music you would like, and any songs that are a must, or a definite no.
If you are opting for live music, a jazz trio is a popular choice, or a string quartet. You could also hire a band to play covers of your favourite songs, or even a specific album that holds a lot of meaning for you both.
As dinner comes to an end, you might want to add some more upbeat songs to the playlist to get your guests excited for the dancing to come.
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Dancefloor music
Firstly, you'll want to get everyone on the dancefloor. Choose a song that is upbeat and well-known, something that will get everyone moving and set the tone for the night. "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" by Whitney Houston is a classic that every guest will know. "Something To Dance To" by Willie Jones is another great option, with banjo strumming and lyrics about letting loose.
Next, you can keep the energy high with some fun songs. "Sucker" by The Jonas Brothers is a great choice, inspired by their wives. You can also add some unique and fun choreography to your playlist with songs like "Bye Bye Bye" by *NSYNC* or "HOT TO GO!" by Chappell Roan. These songs will keep your guests entertained and are sure to be memorable.
Lastly, you'll want to end the night on a high note. If you're looking for a slow song to end the night, choose something that everyone will know and can sing along to. A song like "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri is a popular choice for weddings and will end the night on a romantic note. Alternatively, you can end with an upbeat song that will leave your guests wanting more.
Remember, it's important to work with your wedding DJ and let them know your must-play and do-not-play songs. They are skilled at reading the crowd and will keep the party going all night.
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Frequently asked questions
The processional marks the beginning of the ceremony, so you'll want to choose a song that signals a definite start. The same song can be used for each member of the wedding party, but you may want to switch it up when the bride enters to add drama. You'll also need music for the recessional, which should be bright, lively, and celebratory. If you're performing a unity candle or sand-pouring ritual, you might want to play some soft instrumental music in the background.
The music played at your wedding reception is the soundtrack to the biggest party of your life, so it's important to choose songs that will get your guests on the dance floor. You can start the evening with some of your favourite tunes or a few popular hits. During dinner, play some R&B, jazz, or easy listening at a low volume so your guests can talk. If you're not sure what songs to choose, a professional DJ will be skilled at reading the crowd and keeping the party going.
Your first dance as a married couple is a very personal choice, so think carefully about the song you pick. Consider the lyrics—some romantic-sounding songs might not have the right message for a first wedding dance. If you're unsure, go for something slow and romantic that you know you can both dance to.
