Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! This is an exciting time, and there are many things to plan for.
One of the most important aspects of your wedding day is the ceremony. You will want everything to be perfect, including the music.
In this blog post, we will discuss some ideas for the wedding ceremony music that will make your big day even more special.
But remember one thing, you do you! Choose songs that resonate with you and songs that are meaningful - TO YOU! Songs that celebrate your love for one another!
Pre-ceremony music also known as prelude music
As your guests arrive and take their seats or mingle with other guests, you will want to set the tone with some beautiful music. This is a time for them to relax and get ready for the ceremony.
Choose something calming and elegant, or choose something upbeat - ready to get the party started.
Walking down the aisle songs also known as processional music
Parents, Grandparents or Someone Special entrance
If you are being escorted by your parents or grandparents or someone special, you might want to choose a song that is special to them and to you. Perhaps it is the song they danced to at their wedding or a song that reminds them of you.
Bridesmaids and Groomsmen entrance
These songs are usually fun, upbeat songs that get everyone excited for the ceremony. Especially if you are planning on doing a "flower man" or "flower dude" ;)
Tip: If you are having a large bridal party, you might choose to have more than one song for the entrance, and you get your own song.
The Bride or the Groom entrance
This is one of the most important songs of the day! It is the moment when all eyes are on you as you walk down the aisle to meet your partner. Choose a song that is special to you and will make this moment even more memorable. You could even dedicate a song to your partner here.
The Couple entrance
Who says you can't walk in together and join your guests? This is the perfect opportunity to choose "your song" to walk in together with to not only wow each other but wow your guests.
First Kiss songs
So I've been to and delivered a few weddings now, and my best advice for wedding music is to have a First Kiss Song! I can hear you saying what? Well, let me let you in on a secret! This is a super special moment for you both, but... some people are weird. A song that erupts as you share your first kiss relaxes the moment (for your guests). Don't ask me how; it just does.
This song can then continue on to the signing of the registry.
Signing the registry song
Think more background music for your guests; after the first kiss song finishes, have something here that can be playing in the background while you sign the register and have the moment captured by your photographer.
Congratulations song also known as recessional music
This is it! After you have been pronounced husband and wife or partners for life, it is time to celebrate! Choose a song that is upbeat and will get everyone in the mood to celebrate. This is a great time to incorporate your wedding theme into the music. Remember - meaningful to you both!
Post-ceremony music also known as interlude or postlude music
Time for your live musicians to take over, or are you continuing with your playlist? Whatever you decide, it's now time to set the mood for how you want the rest of your day or night to go. Do you want relaxing and chilling music here, or do you want the party to get started?
Whatever you decide, remember, it's you and your partner's day, so make sure the music is meaningful to you both!
Alternative music suggestions
If you are looking for some alternative ideas for your ceremony music, look no further!
Live Band
A live band can really set the mood and get everyone in the celebratory spirit.
DJ
If you are looking for something a little more low-key, a DJ can provide the perfect background music, and they are also great at reading the room and adapting music to keep the vibe alive.
Playlist
Spotify, Pandora, and YouTube are all great streaming services that offer a wide variety of music to choose from. You can also create your own playlist with your personal music collection or wedding website.
Acoustic Duo or Vocalist
An acoustic duo can provide the perfect background music for your ceremony and provide that personal touch. Secretly, these guys are my favourite. There is something uniquely special about having an acoustic duo play during your ceremony. They can adapt the music to suit the ceremony. It's hard to put into words what these guys do, but it does create magic. There are no awkward silences; the music plays to the perfect moment, and the music starts at the perfect moment.
Bagpiper
For all couples wanting to incorporate their Scottish heritage, this is a huge WOW factor and adds a unique and very special touch to your ceremony. They can play as you walk down the aisle, during the signing of the registry, and even for your recessional.
String Quartet, Harpist or Pianist
A string quartet, harpist or pianist can really add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your ceremony. They are perfect for those who are looking for something a little different.
Whatever you decide, make sure the music is meaningful to you and your partner! MUSIC IS POWERFUL. It has the ability to transport us back in time, evoking forgotten memories and creating new ones. When it comes to wedding ceremony music, it is no different. The right songs can make your ceremony even more special and memorable.
Still stuck for wedding ceremony music inspiration? Consider these:
Classical music for your wedding ceremony
If you are having a traditional ceremony, classical music is a beautiful option. There are many timeless pieces that are perfect for weddings, such as Canon in D by Johann Pachelbel and Air on the G String by Johann Sebastian Bach.
Popular songs for your wedding ceremony
If you want your ceremony to be more modern, you can choose popular songs that have special meaning to you as a couple. You can even create a playlist of your favourite love songs to walk down the aisle to. Just make sure to choose songs with lyrics that are appropriate for the occasion.
Instrumental music for your wedding ceremony
If you prefer, you can also have instrumental music playing during your ceremony. This can be a good option if you want to avoid any lyrics that might take away from the moment. Relaxing and calm music are perfect for a wedding ceremony, so choose pieces that reflect this mood.
Now that you have an idea of the different types of music available to you for your big day, it's time to start creating your playlist! Remember to choose music that is meaningful to you and your partner. Have fun and enjoy the process!
If you would like to see what other couples have chosen for their ceremony music, check out this blog post, Music Inspiration for your Wedding Ceremony!
Do you have any other ideas for wedding ceremony music? Share them with us in the comments below!