CEREMONY MUSIC

Before you get caught up in selecting your ceremony music be aware that some ceremony sites and officiants may have strict guidelines about which music can -- and can’t -- be played during a ceremony… just so you’re aware.

If you decide to use musicians find out if they suck or not, can play the songs you want, supply their own PA system (if needed), and how much space they’ll need. Don’t forget they may need access to an electrical outlet. If you can afford musicians and they can meet your expectations I say go for it. If not, go with a DJ who has experience playing ceremony music. To date I have personally played about 40 ceremonies, and it’s just not pushing play and running on autopilot, it’s really nerve racking and stressful. You need great timing, and improvisational skills. If a DJ screws up your ceremony, chances are pretty good that you are stuck with the same douche bag all night. I don’t want to scare you but it’s a sacred moment in time, as it should be.

Anyway, regardless if you use musicians or a DJ, if you go with traditional music or you use music you actually like, here are the basics:

Just like any story or movie you have a beginning, middle, and end. Before I forget make sure you put a little effort in selecting your songs, the music you pick tells your guests and loved ones how you feel about each other.

Beginning:

PRELUDE music usually begins 20 to 40 minutes prior to the ceremony. These selections set the mood for the coming event. Basically the prelude provides an acoustic backdrop for your guests which I call “seating music” so they don't get bored.

The PROCESSIONAL announces the arrival of the wedding attendants and, ultimately, the bride. Usually, there are two selections played during the processional: one for the bridesmaids and groomsmen, and a different selection for the bride. Make sure the music is cranked up when the bride comes in so the guests stand and recognize!

Middle:

Throughout the ceremony, you can accentuate key moments with INTERLUDE music, which make an impact on your guests, and breaks up the solemnity of the occasion. You might want to include music just before or after a reading, during communion, at the signing of the register, etc. These selections should be slow paced and softly played to give your guests a moment for contemplation or reflection… Ahhhhh.

End:

The RECESSIONAL is the grand finale of the ceremony and should reflect the awesome nature of the occasion. Music should play as the wedding party leaves the church or ceremony site and continue until all guests have departed.

Anyway hope I didn't bore you.