Music has the magical ability to evoke emotions, set the mood, and elevate every moment of your wedding ceremony. Choosing the right songs for key sections can transform your special day into an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
Here’s a guide to the sections of the ceremony where music plays a vital role, along with some song suggestions to inspire you.
1. Prelude: Welcoming Your Guests
The prelude sets the tone as your guests arrive and take their seats.
Play soft, inviting music that reflects the atmosphere you want to create—whether it’s romantic, elegant, or lighthearted.
Duration: 15–30 minutes before the ceremony starts.
Suggestions:
"Canon in D" by Johann Pachelbel (Classical)
"A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri (Instrumental Version)
"Clair de Lune" by Claude Debussy
"Better Together" by Jack Johnson (Acoustic)
"You Are the Best Thing" by Ray LaMontagne
2. Processional: The Grand Entrance
This is when the wedding party and the couple make their way down the aisle.
Choose songs that capture the significance of the moment and match your personal style.
For the Wedding Party:
"River Flows in You" by Yiruma
"Somewhere Over the Rainbow" by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
"At Last" by Etta James
For the Couple:
"Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles (Instrumental or Acoustic)
"Marry Me" by Train
"Can’t Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley
"Here Comes the Bride"
"Going To The Chapel of Love" by The Dixie Cups
3. Interludes: Special Ceremony Moments
Interludes are the quieter moments in the ceremony where music adds depth and emotion.
These could include:
Ring Warming, Lighting a Unity Candle or Sand Ceremony:
Soft instrumentals or a meaningful song can make these moments even more heartfelt.
Suggestions:
"The Book of Love" by Peter Gabriel
"Turning Page" by Sleeping at Last
"Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen (Acoustic or Instrumental)
"I’m Yours" by Jason Mraz (Soft Acoustic)
4. Signing the Legal Documents
Your ceremony includes signing Legal Documents, music can fill the silence and keep your guests engaged. Choose a tune that’s soothing yet celebratory.
Suggestions:
"All of Me" by John Legend (Instrumental or Acoustic)
"Perfect" by Ed Sheeran (Acoustic Version)
"Dream a Little Dream of Me" by Ella Fitzgerald
"Your Song" by Elton John
5. The Grande Finale ... The Recessional:
The Joyful Exit... This is the moment of celebration!
The recessional signifies your initial steps as a married couple, so choose an uplifting, triumphant song to reflect the joy around you.
Think about commemorating this special moment in a fun and distinctive manner by dancing your way down the aisle as newlyweds!
Suggestions:
"Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)" by Stevie Wonder
"You Make My Dreams (Come True)" by Hall & Oates
"I Wanna Dance with Somebody" by Whitney Houston
"Best Day of My Life" by American Authors
"This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole
6. Postlude and gathering guests for The Group Photo! Wrapping Up the Ceremony
After your "Grande Finale walk down the aisle" this is the perfect time to take the group photo.
Guests will begin to mingle and make their way to the reception, keep the energy alive with music.
This is an excellent time for more lively or romantic songs to keep everyone in the celebratory spirit.
Suggestions:
"Happy" by Pharrell Williams
"Home" by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
"All You Need Is Love" by The Beatles
"You’ve Got the Love" by Florence + The Machine
Tips for Choosing Ceremony Music
Coordinate with Your DJ: Ensure the timing of each piece complements the ceremony structure.
Consider Your Venue: Check for sound system options or acoustic limitations.
Make It Personal: Incorporate songs that have special meaning to you as a couple.
The right music can turn your ceremony into an emotional and unforgettable event.
Whether you opt for a live musician such as a violinist or guitarist, hire a professional DJ to craft the ideal song list, or create your own playlist, ensure you select songs that resonate with you as a couple and capture your distinctive love story.
Need additional advice for organizing your perfect ceremony? Check out the MeetAtTheAltar.com blog for inspiration!
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