Some of us have had our weddings planned since we were children. Others of us… not so much! When it comes to picking music for your wedding ceremony, it can seem like a daunting task. Here are three tips for choosing songs for your wedding.
1.) Know Your Wedding Musicians
Are you going to have live music for your ceremony, cocktail hour, or reception, or will you have a DJ? Whoever is playing the music for your ceremony is important to consider. If you have a solo instrumentalist, or even a duet, there are just some songs that aren’t going to translate well. If you’re hoping to have your favorite electronic, hip hop, or metal song played during your ceremony or cocktail hour, it’s not going to sound the same on solo violin or a violin and cello duet. Looking up string duet or quartet covers on YouTube can help you picture what a song sounds like on string instruments. If you are hiring us to play, note that we do not play with back tracks and include that in your search. This will help you get an idea of what to expect.
2.) You’re probably not going to hear the prelude music.
Your musicians will likely play 20-25 minutes of music before your wedding ceremony begins, which is called the prelude music. I recommend that my clients allow me to put together a list of music for this based on their preferences. In the 20-25 minutes leading up to your ceremony will likely be overwhelming, either getting ready with last minute details or greeting guests. Wedding planning is already so stressful, so let your musicians handle the setlist for the prelude – one less thing! I even recommend having the musicians choose your cocktail hour music to take something off your plate.
What you will want to select is the music for your processional (when you and your wedding party walk down the aisle before the ceremony), unity ceremony (a unity candle, sand, etc. if you have one), and the recessional (the song everyone walks out to after the ceremony). These songs are more personal and you will remember what you walked down the aisle to for years to come. You can view our repertoire list here.
3.) Your Wedding Musicians will be able to give you suggestions if you’re having trouble.
Your musicians will be able to give you a list of most popular picks to help you with your decision. And just know: You’re not alone in the struggle! As a wedding musician, I have to say that I have way more couples who struggle to pick out their music than I do who come to me with a setlist already picked out.
What do you think of these tips, did I miss anything? Share your own tips below!