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That's My Song - Choosing the music for your Perfect Day !

Monday, December 09, 2024 | By: BlaqPearl Photography

Your wedding ceremony is one of the most magical and emotional parts of your big day. Every moment, from the arrival of your guests to your joyful recessional as newlyweds, is an opportunity to set the tone with music that reflects your love story. But with so many songs and styles to choose from, selecting the right music can feel overwhelming.

Don't worry — we’ve broken it down for you. Here’s a step-by-step guide to choosing music for each part of your ceremony, along with tips to make your choices meaningful, personal, and unforgettable.

1. Prelude Music (Guest Arrival)

When It Plays: 20-30 minutes before the ceremony as guests find their seats.
The Vibe: Warm, welcoming, and calm.

This is your chance to set the tone for the entire day. You want songs that make guests feel relaxed, excited, and ready to witness something special. Think of it as background music that builds anticipation.
Song Ideas:

  • Soft instrumentals (acoustic guitar, piano, or string quartet)
  • R&B classics like "Love" by Musiq Soulchild or "You and I" by Stevie Wonder
  • Contemporary ballads like "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri

Pro Tip: Choose songs with smooth melodies and subtle lyrics (if any) so that they don’t overpower conversations as guests mingle.

 

 2. Parents’ Entrance

When It Plays: As parents, grandparents, and other VIPs (like officiants) are escorted to their seats.
The Vibe: Heartfelt, honoring, and sentimental.

This is a moment to honor the love and support that brought you to this day. The music should feel special but not overpowering. Choose songs with deep emotional meaning or songs that are symbolic for your family.
Song Ideas:

  • "Ribbon in the Sky" by Stevie Wonder (Classic, emotional, and iconic)
  • "Mama" by Boyz II Men (A tribute to parents, especially mothers)
  • "For You" by Kenny Lattimore (Beautiful, smooth, and meaningful)

Pro Tip: If you'd like to make this moment even more personal, pick a song that has special meaning to your parents or represents your family legacy.

 
 
 3. Wedding Party Entrance

When It Plays: As bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers make their way down the aisle.
The Vibe: Fun, joyful, and upbeat.

This is your chance to bring a little personality and flair to the ceremony. You can go playful, elegant, or smooth — whatever reflects the vibe you want to set.
Song Ideas:

  • "Before I Let Go" by Beyoncé (Energetic and joyful)
  • "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Haley Reinhart (Slower and romantic)
  • "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole (A classic, joyful celebration of love)

Pro Tip: Think about the personalities of your wedding party. Do they love to dance? Pick something upbeat. Want a classic, timeless feel? Opt for something more elegant or traditional.

 

4. Bride’s Entrance (The Big Moment!)

When It Plays: As the bride (or both partners) walks down the aisle.
The Vibe: Dramatic, emotional, and unforgettable.

This is the moment. Every guest will be focused on you, and the music should capture the depth of the moment. Choose something with a slow, steady build-up and an emotional punch.
Song Ideas:

  • "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri (Heart-stopping, emotional, and cinematic)
  • "Perfect" by Ed Sheeran (Soft, emotional, and deeply romantic)
  • "Adore" by Prince (Powerful, soulful, and deeply passionate)

Pro Tip: Consider an instrumental version of your favorite song for this moment, especially if you love a modern R&B or pop hit. It adds a timeless feel while still keeping your personal touch.

5. Unity Ceremony (If Applicable)

When It Plays: During a symbolic moment like lighting a unity candle, pouring sand, or tying a handfasting cord.
The Vibe: Intimate, meaningful, and reflective.

The unity ceremony is often quiet and intimate, so you’ll want soft, slow, and thoughtful music. The music should evoke reflection and emotional connection.
Song Ideas:

  • "All My Life" by K-Ci & JoJo (One of the most timeless R&B love ballads)
  • "Nothing Even Matters" by Lauryn Hill & D'Angelo (Smooth, mellow, and intimate)
  • "You" by Jesse Powell (Deeply emotional and perfectly fitting for a unity moment)

Pro Tip: Since this moment is often symbolic, it’s okay to go with instrumental music. Choose something soothing and reflective to avoid taking attention away from the action.

 

 

6. Recessional (The Celebration Walk!)

When It Plays: As the newly married couple walks back down the aisle.
The Vibe: Joyous, upbeat, and celebratory.

This is it! You’re officially married, and it’s time to celebrate. The recessional music should be upbeat, fun, and feel like a celebration. Whether you go with something soulful, funky, or just plain fun, this is the moment to turn up the energy.
Song Ideas:

  • "Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)" by Stevie Wonder (Classic, fun, and celebratory)
  • "Let's Get Married (Remix)" by Jagged Edge ft. Rev Run (On theme, energetic, and iconic)
  • "This Is How We Do It" by Montell Jordan (Fun, playful, and gets people hyped)

Pro Tip: This is a great chance to show your personality as a couple. Choose something that gets your guests smiling, clapping, and dancing.

Tips for Choosing the Right Wedding Ceremony Music

  1. Personalize It: Choose songs that reflect your love story, shared experiences, or moments that matter to both of you.
  2. Create the Right Flow: Each part of the ceremony has a different tone. For instance, the bride’s entrance is more emotional, but the recessional is fun and upbeat.
  3. Check the Venue Rules: Some places of worship may have restrictions on secular music, so double-check if your venue has specific guidelines.
  4. Hire Live Musicians: If possible, live musicians (like a harpist, pianist, or acoustic guitarist) can make classic songs feel unique to your wedding.
  5. Ask Your DJ or Band for Help: Professional DJs have playlists full of suggestions for each part of the ceremony and can offer great guidance.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding ceremony music is like the soundtrack to one of the most important chapters of your life. By thoughtfully selecting songs for each moment, you create an emotional experience for both you and your guests. Whether you lean into classic ballads, smooth R&B, or modern hits, the right music can bring the whole day to life.

Take your time, listen to options, and most importantly — choose songs that speak to you. Because just like your love story, your ceremony music should be one of a kind.

Have questions about picking your ceremony songs? Drop them in the comments — I’d love to help you find your perfect wedding day soundtrack!

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