It is essential that you carefully choose music for your wedding ceremony. A good selection can mean the difference between an awkward, clunky ceremony and a flowing, emotional experience. Music serves as a transition between the parts in the ceremony and can highlight the deeper meaning of the wedding ceremony.
Instructions
1. Hire a band or musician. Look for an experienced professional that has played wedding ceremonies before. Pick someone you can communicate with well and will be able to help you choose the best songs to play.
2. Choose a Prelude. The prelude is the welcoming music that guests will hear as they are being seated. The prelude begins a good 15 to 20 minutes before the ceremony and is often a medley of many songs. Give your musician an idea of the genres of music you like and let them choose the individual songs. The tone of the prelude should match the upcoming songs in the ceremony as well as set a subdued, yet joyful atmosphere.
3. Choose the Wedding Party's Processional. Pick a steady, flowing piece to introduce the bridesmaids and other members of the wedding party. This announces the official beginning of the ceremony, so it should feel that way. Think of the first song of the service they play at church that prompts everyone to stand.
4. Choose the Bride's Processional. This is the classic "Here Comes the Bride" moment. You don't have to choose this song specifically, but choose one that will make her entrance memorable and breathtaking.
5. Choose Interlude melodies. These songs will provide transition during parts of the ceremony where there is no speaking, such as the lighting of candles or rose presentation. Choose words that evoke quiet reflection.
6. Choose the Recessional. This song should be celebratory, bright and upbeat. It should be a release of all the building excitement and joy after the solemn ceremony is over. It should
encourage all the guests to join in and celebrate your union.
7. Choose the Postlude. This should be a bit like the prelude, as it will be played as guests exit. It should set a happy, satisfied atmosphere and set the mood for the coming reception.
