Ceremony Music Guide
While planning a wedding there are so many details that take top priority on the planning list. Sometimes smaller details that actually are also very important, get overlooked or pushed to last-minute planning, for example, ceremony music. When planning this out there are some traditional terms that may not sound familiar but by the time you finish this blog, you will know all the terms and this guide will make it easier when planning your music.
Prelude
This is the music that should start before your guests show up to take their seats. Traditionally, there is a more classical/instrumental feel to this music choice, but lots of couples have chosen to take their own path with their ceremony music. It really is what you prefer, but just remember your setting the mood for your guests as they wait for the wedding to start.
Processional
This is the music that plays while the wedding party takes their walk down the aisle to their place at the altar. This may also include parents or even grandparents and is usually broken up into 3 songs. The first song is typically for the parents/grandparents and then ends with the 1st half of the wedding party entrances (this traditionally included the Groom and Groomsmen). The second song is played for the second half of the wedding party to enter to (this traditionally was for the Bridesmaids to enter before the Bride). The second song does also typically include any children who may be a part of your ceremony, such as flower children or ring bearers. The third and final song is typically the song that is played for the final entrance/grand entrance for the second partner alone, second partner with a parent or even together as a couple. You can go with an instrumental classic for these songs, put a twist on it and have your favorite hit turned instrumental or even have a live singer perform your ceremony processional music. Put your own spin on it and select music that fits your style as a couple. It’s a great way to sprinkle in your couple style!
Ceremony
Sometimes, during the ceremony, there may be moments where you may like to add in additional music as well. Some couples like to add in some light pre-selected background music to things like their unity candle/unity tribute, special readings, blessings, prayers, etc. This is typically an optional thing so don’t stress yourself out over adding these things into your ceremony. Some churches and officiants may request you to select music for certain parts of the ceremony but otherwise, that is completely up to you whether you would like to add in extra music or not.
Recessional
Once the ceremony has ended and the happy couple has been announced as officially married, the recessional music begins. This music is the official announcement to your guests that they can now applaud and celebrate your marriage with you and it’s your cue as the couple to begin your walk back down the aisle, together. This music should continue for the wedding party and is typically played through as the guests begin to leave the ceremony space. This marks the end of the ceremony and the begining of the celebration so this music should be something uplighting and energentic to hype your guests and yourselves up for the rest of the festivities and a lifetime of happiness!
When you sit down with your DJ/Band/Live Musicians and talk about the plan for your ceremony, you will now understand each category/section of the ceremony music selection and have a better idea of how you may want the music to feel for each part. If you have an experienced Wedding DJ or Musician then they will be able to help guide you through this process and help make music selection suggestions if you need them, as well. Remember, it’s your day so pick the music that helps tell your love story and shares your “couple style” with your guests and don’t forget to have fun with it!
Happy Planning!
<3 Naticia
