One of the questions we are most often asked, is “what songs do I need for my wedding day?”  Music is a foundational element for weddings and if you have already started your wedding planning, you know there are several areas that you’ll need to select a song.  This music guide will help you make those decisions.
0447_122812_HoughtelingThe Ceremony
Guest seating:  As your guests are seated for the ceremony, most couples choose to have some light music playing in the background, whether by live musicians or pre-recorded pieces.  While it is popular to choose instrumental music at this time, a vocalist or your favorite song may also play.
  • Processional:   The anticipation of seeing the bride will continue to rise as your bridal party walks down the aisle.  Most couples choose two different songs for the processional; one for the bridal party’s entrance and a second piece for the entrance of the bride.  Choose a song that has a nice tempo for the bridal party to walk to.  Traditional choices include  and “To A Wild Rose” by MacDowell.  If you have selected more modern choices, consider transitioning here if you want a more traditional bride’s processional.   Traditional choices like Pachelbel’s Canon in D, “Bridal Chorus” by Wagner and “Trumpet Voluntary” by Jeremiah Clark are common, but you could also use something more personal (if your officiant allows).  If you love a song, but don’t want to use the lyrics, an instrumental version is often available.  Keep in mind that most walks down the aisle are under 45 seconds so you may want to choose a particular passage and have it faded in and out.

Ceremony music:  There are key moments during your ceremony when you may choose to have music played.  They may include unity candle or sand ceremony, prayers and reflection, memorial moments or any other special times unique to your ceremony.  (For more on ceremony music, click here.)
Recessional: Usually, only one song is used for the recessional of the newlyweds and their bridal party.  Most commonly, traditional music is used for the recessional, but something more upbeat is also appropriate.


1461_101912_BrownThe Reception
Cocktail hour music: The formality of the ceremony is over and guests are ready to have a good time.  The music for your cocktail hour is a great way to share your personal tastes so anything goes.  Consider acoustic artists, crooners, reggae, love songs through the ages or any other genres that fit with your wedding theme.  Work with yourwedding DJ to create a playlist of your favorite music.  (For more on cocktail hour, click here.)
Reception entrance: The music for your wedding reception gives your guests a cue on what kind of event you will have.  This starts with your Grand Entrance to the wedding reception.  Choosing a fun song for bridal party introductions can help get the crowd ready for your big moment and give your guests a preview of what is to follow.
Dinner music:  During dinner service, many couples opt for jazz without vocals so that guests can converse without distraction.  As dinner service begins to wind down, consider adding some of your favorites.  You can add electronic, oldies & motown, alternative ballads or whatever you like.  It gets your guests ready to dance leading up to the party.
The first dance: The first dance is one of the most iconic wedding moments.  Your friends and family are gathered to watch you share a dance as husband and wife.   It’s one of the only moments in the day that you are alone – even if in front of your guests.  You’ll think back to this moment every time you hear the song you danced to.  Simply put, the song you choose has to be perfect.  (For more advice on the perfect reception music, click here.)  So how do you pick the right first dance song?  Pick a song that has special meaning to you as a couple; the song you first danced to, played at your engagement, one you dance to at home – whatever invokes a happy thought.  Choose a song with appropriate lyrics, a good melody and a short length.  You want to enjoy the moment, not wonder how much longer you have to dance.  (Click here to see our music list for inspiration.)
Father/daughter and mother/son dances: Whether you will each share a dance with your parents or combine them into one dance, most couples struggle to find the perfect song that expresses their love, without being romantic.  Don’t worry, we have you covered!  Click for father/daughter or mother/son dance song suggestions.
Reception music: Most receptions will open with traditional wedding dances for the couple, family and bridal party.  (For more on these, click here.)  At the completion of these dances, your guests will be invited to join you on the dance floor.  Consult with your DJ to develop a list of must play, try to play and do not play songs.  While it may be tempting to try to plan out every song for the night, it is highly advised to resist that temptation.  A professional DJ is skilled at reading the crowd, selecting the best song to play next and keeping your party going.  An experienced wedding DJ will understand that everyone is passionate about ‘”their style” of music and know how to tap into that passion and present it in a manner that everyone on the dance floor can get excited about together. They will know how to correctly weave in and out of many different styles of music and, ultimately, keep the party going all night long.
Cake-cutting: The cake cutting can be a fun, yet sentimental moment at your wedding reception.  Many couples choose a “sweet” song, such as The Archies “Sugar”, Sarah McLachlin’s “Ice Cream” or U2‘s “Sweetest Thing”.  If you have a song that was high on your first dance list, but didn’t make the cut, the cake cutting is a great way to still incorporate that song.
Bouquet toss: The tradition of the bride tossing her bouquet to the single ladies at her wedding reception is often a favorite moment at the reception.  In recent years, however, the popularity of this event has begun to wane.  (If you are considering a bouquet toss, click here for some song suggestions.)
Last song: Ending your reception on a high note gives your guests a final, lasting impression.  Whether a special slow song for the romantics, or a sing-a-long for friends, give some consideration to  your last song of the evening. For some tips on choosing your last song of the night, click here.