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The thing about your wedding is that it’s your wedding.  This means there is no right or wrong about any aspect – you can do things any way you like!  Isn’t that exciting?!??!

I’ve worked with couples who chose to drop the traditional first dance and replace it with something just as unique and romantic.  One couple considered the idea of not having a processional song at all (bride walking up the aisle at beginning of ceremony), instead arriving at the same time as the groom – but with a twist.  When it comes to music for the ceremony overall, again it’s up to you.  When clients book me, I am often involved with their ceremony, be it to be there and look after the audio and music requirements personally, or just to consult and help them put together appropriate music or edited versions of their chosen songs.

The key points to be looking at when planning ceremony music are:

• Pre-ceremony: Generally, I’d provide music of some description for the guests before the bride arrives.  It’s important to consider who will be hearing this, which is normally a wide range of ages.  Keep this rather inconsequential, or subtle.  Nothing to do with the volume, rather the tone and energy of the songs.  Positive, happy, with a little bit of rhythm (ie – NOT Kenny G or elevator music) but not so much that the grandparents will be frightened, etc.
• Processional: So many options here.  The traditional “Here Comes The Bride” is seldom heard these days, although it does come up, and there are so many versions of it.  I even have a club-style dance version or it (never used it).  Brides usually choose a “romantic” song that is special to them, or with lyrics that tell their story.  But of course, you can do whatever you want.  Choose a song that simply sounds cool, if you like!  Or, have some fun with it and give your guests a chuckle.  One bride I worked with a few years ago used “I Walk The Line” by Johnny Cash.  “Walk Right In” by Dr Hook just sounds funny.  And then there’s hundreds other possibilities that you’ll either love, or not.  And don’t forget to consider editing the track, if you have the know how or know someone who does.  I once used a Kelly Clarkson track, changing the 3 second intro (before she started singing).  I extended that intro making it 90 seconds of instrumental for the bridesmaids to walk in to, with the hook/chorus of the song starting just as the bride arrived over the sand dune (beach wedding).  It was beautiful, and the timing was perfect.
• Signing the Registry: Again, the choices are endless.  One day, someone will use my suggestion of “Sign Your Name (Across My Heart)” by Terrence Trent D’arby…Also, many celebrants misjudge how long this process actually takes.  If your song is under 4 minutes, get a 2nd song to use straight after as well.  Better to have too much than not enough.
• Recessional: If any of my clients ask for my personal preference with this one, I always suggest they go with something with a bit of power.  In fact, I refer to it as an “impact song”.  The most official, most serious (and legal) part of the day is over with, and this song should really make a statement.  As with the processional, it could be special lyrics or just great memories the song represents that makes it right for you.  Or – it could be that it’s just a cool song with some atmosphere and who needs any other reason.   Whatever you use, it’s usually a good idea to edit the tune so it starts at the hook of the song.  For example, U2’s “Beautiful Day” has a significant amount of “nothing” at the beginning of the song.  You and your new husband will be well down the aisle and out the door (so to speak) before the song really gets going.  No matter what the song, it’s going to be perfect because you chose it, and it would be a shame to miss it.
• And then what? If you’re having an outdoor ceremony where guests are likely to be staying around after the ceremony, don’t forget to have more music carry on, ideally something with a little more energy that before the ceremony.

And most importantly – don’t stress.  Have fun with it!

Regards
Nick Logan
www.dj.co.nz