Tips for choosing your wedding music

Believe it or not, music plays a large role in your wedding. Music can add emotion and speak where others’ words cannot. The mood you create all depends on the different types of music that you pick for your wedding. How can you figure it all out?

1. You need to remember that the music is going to be played at different times throughout the day and usually the songs coordinate with that event; what you would like playing for your final dance may not necessarily be what you would like playing during the ceremony. Typically, there is a soft sounding, sometimes just instrumental, music playing when guests arrive at your ceremony; however, you can pick anything you like that would seem warm and inviting to your guests.

2. Find two songs for your processional, one for your wedding party to walk down the aisle to and another one just for you. If you want to go the traditional route, you may choose to walk down the aisle to the“Wedding March” or “Pachabell Cannon.” You could also pick a different song that is meaningful to you and your groom. The one thing to keep in mind here is that depending on where your location is, some songs may sound better (or worse) depending on the acoustics of your venue. 

3. If you’re having a cocktail hour in between the ceremony and reception, you may want to create a relaxing playlist for your guests to socialize. The key here with cocktail music is to have enough rhythm to keep them awake but not heading toward the dance floor yet. 

4. The first dance is definitely a big deal. Again, you and your fiancé should pick something that is meaningful to both of you. However, your options here are endless, as you can go timeless and classical, whimsical and funny, or go modern and use one of the latest hits that year. Don’t forget that you will most likely want to have special songs picked for the other symbolic dances that night, such as the father/daughter dance, the mother/son dance as well as the bouquet and garter toss.
The rest of your reception music can be as personal as you wish. In order to help ensure that you are hearing what you want, you may want to write a detailed list for the DJ, MC or live band that you want played and those that are not allowed. 

5. Don’t forget to put in your own request for the very last song of the night. Often the last song is what guests remember about your celebration, as it was the final go of the night. Depending on your style, personalities and theme of the reception, you and your now spouse should pick something that matches who you are but will still be fun and recognizable for your guests.