Why Have Wedding Music?

Music is one of the most important elements of a wedding. Without it, weddings would be quiet and boring. Even though music is so important, it’s not something that is thought about too often. What kind of wedding music should be played? Should you have a live band or a DJ? Should you have music during the ceremony? What about the music during the cocktail hour? All of these questions should be considered while planning your wedding. Keep reading for some tips on incorporating music into your big day.

Ceremony Music

Many times brides keep very traditional music in their ceremonies. This doesn’t need to be the case, though. If you’re a non-traditional bride, try to think of a song that speaks to you and your fiance as a couple to play while you walk down the aisle. You also may want music during a unity candle lighting or unity sand ceremony. This keeps guests entertained while they watch you and your fiance light the candle or pour the sand. Feel free to get creative with this music, too. I believe that all of the songs at your wedding should be songs that mean something to you or songs you just like to listen to. Here’s a list of ceremony songs to get you started planning your wedding music.

Cocktail Hour Music

For the cocktail hour, consider soft and simple music that is easy to talk over. Your guests will want to visit with each other at this time, so make it easy for them to do so. If you have instrumentalists playing during your ceremony, it can be nice to have them play at this time, too, for some consistency. Piano, soft guitar, or harp works well during the cocktail hour.

Reception Music

Before you plan your music for the reception, you need to decide what kind of reception you want to have. Do you want your guests dancing? Do you want it to have a true party atmosphere or do you want a quieter reception? All of these answers will help you select your music. Choose upbeat and popular songs if you want your guests dancing the night away. If you’d rather have your guests sitting and visiting during your reception, choose soft and slower songs. Check out this fun list of reception songs that all of your guests will love.

Live Band or DJ

There are pros and cons to having either a live band or a DJ play for your wedding reception. A live band is entertaining to both listen to and watch. They can involve the crowd and make the reception exciting. A DJ, however, has the ability to play all kinds of music. You can have the exact songs you want to be played by the exact artist you love. If you find a good DJ, he/she will be able to involve the crowd and pump up the party, too. Whichever option you choose, be sure to give your live band or DJ a “Don’t Play List” and a “Play No Matter What List.” This ensures that you won’t hear any songs you hate, but you will hear all the songs you love.

Music is so important, so give it some thought for your special day. Choosing the right music for your wedding can make the day so much more special than it already is. The music will add a personal touch and will show your guests a new side of you and your fiance as a couple.