Wedding Ceremony Music
The slower, more formal music 
pieces played during your wedding ceremony are just as important as the upbeat tunes played at the reception. They need to be played at the right time and at an appropriate volume and speed so that the joyous mood of your special day is carried off without a hitch. It's also important that each piece of music fits with the venue and style of your particular wedding, whether it's a more traditional church wedding or a whimsical beach union. For some helpful tips on picking the perfect pieces for your ceremony, check out the rest of this guide. You'll be stepping to the wedding march in no time!
Things to Avoid
- Silence. Although you're probably focused on your big entrance, you need to remember that guests will be seated anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes before you arrive. It's important to play music during this chunk of time before your processional so that people are both entertained and given an idea of the wedding theme and/or mood. If you're putting on a more formal event, classical pieces played by a string quartet work very well. If your ceremony is a bit more laid back, soft, acoustic love songs by your favourite pop artists are appropriate too.
- Poor Planning. You need to assess all aspects of your wedding venue before the big day, and this includes how the space will mesh with your ceremony band.
- Outdoor weddings need instruments that can carry their sound well--like brass horns instead of violins. But if you still want a group of string musicians to brave the natural elements, then the rule of thumb is the more, the merrier. You can carry off the sound of these instruments if you increase the number of players. Also, you may consider using microphones and speakers if you're competing against crashing waves and gusty winds.
- Indoor weddings can carry all types of sounds, especially if you're in a cathedral with acoustic/echo-friendly walls.
- Discuss room size and equipment needs to make sure your band will have the enough space to perform and enough outlets to support electronic devices.
- Offending Your Officiant. If you plan on holding your wedding ceremony in a church, synagogue or another religious venue, you need to ask about their rules and regulations. Some venues may ban secular songs and electric music, or they may prohibit the presence of an orchestra at the altar.
Playlist Suggestions
To get your musical gears in motion, check out some of these wedding ceremony artist suggestions.
Related Guides
Need more wedding tips? We've got all the advice you need.
External Links
- About.com: Advice on traditional, contemporary and classical song choices.
- TheKnot.com: Wedding ceremony and reception music mistakes.
