Planning a wedding is a massive task and requires a lot of coordination to bring everything together.

From choosing the perfect venue to deciding on the menu, one aspect that often takes a backseat in the planning process is the selection of music. The soundtrack of your wedding is a powerful tool that can elevate the entire experience, creating lasting memories for you and your guests.

So, when it comes to the question of “What music do you need for a wedding?” we want to help make things as easy as possible for you. That’s why our dedicated team of booking coordinators have put together this wedding song checklist, to help you ensure you have every part of your big day covered.

The Prelude

As guests arrive and anticipation fills the air, the prelude sets the tone and helps to build an atmosphere ready for the ceremony. This initial part of the day is more than just an introduction; it’s a delicate dance between music and emotion.

Here’s what you should be thinking about when choosing your prelude music…

Prelude Checklist

1. Select instrumental pieces or gentle melodies for a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
2. Consider timeless classics like Pachelbel’s Canon in D or Debussy’s Clair de Lune, or opt for a more modern hit played in a classical style.
3. Infuse personal favourites that hold sentimental value for you and your partner.
4. Envision the gentle strains of a live string quartet as guests gather.

As you plan the prelude, consider the emotions you want to evoke. The melodies should gently prepare your guests for the beautiful moments that lie ahead.

Classical compositions are popular choices for this segment, as they possess an inherent elegance and timelessness.

Alternatively, you might choose a piece that holds personal significance – a song that represents the journey you and your partner have shared.

The Ceremony

The ceremony is the heart of the wedding, where vows are exchanged, and promises are made. Selecting music that complements each significant moment ensures that the emotional impact is heightened, making it an experience that lingers in the hearts of everyone present.

Ceremony Checklist

1. Choose music that complements significant moments like the processional and unity ceremony.
2. For the processional, consider emotional pieces like Mendelssohn’s Wedding March or Wagner’s Bridal Chorus.
3. Select a song that reflects your unique love story during the unity ceremony.
4. Imagine a live string ensemble, an elegant harpist, or a grand piano enhancing the emotional impact of your vows.

Picture the moment when you begin your walk down the aisle. The processional is a poignant part of the ceremony, and the right music enhances the magic of the moment. Traditional choices like Mendelssohn’s Wedding March or Wagner’s Bridal Chorus have stood the test of time, their notes resonating with the gravity of the occasion.

Alternatively, opt for a song that holds personal significance – a melody that encapsulates your unique love story.

Drinks Reception

After the ceremony, as you enjoy the first moments of newlywed bliss, your guests will gather for the drinks reception. This social hour is a perfect opportunity to infuse a light and festive atmosphere with the right music.

Drinks Reception Checklist:

1. Choose lively and upbeat tunes for a celebratory mood.
2. Consider acoustic or jazz renditions for a sophisticated touch.
3. Infuse a mix of genres to cater to diverse guest tastes.
4. Create a playlist that complements the overall ambience of the drinks reception.

Imagine the subtle melodies of an acoustic guitar or the smooth sounds of a jazz quartet providing the backdrop as guests mingle and share in the joy of your union.

Upbeat tunes can add a celebratory vibe, enhancing the overall atmosphere and setting the stage for the festivities that lie ahead.

Wedding Breakfast

As you and your guests transition from your drinks reception into the wedding breakfast, the right music can enhance the dining experience, creating an ambience of melodic elegance.

Wedding Breakfast Checklist:

1. Select soothing background music for a relaxed dining atmosphere.
2. Consider instrumental pieces or light vocals that complement the meal.
3. Infuse personal favourites that add a touch of your unique style.
4. Coordinate with your catering team to ensure a seamless integration of music and dining.

Picture a string quartet playing soft, classical music or a jazz trio providing a subtle, sophisticated backdrop as you and your guests enjoy the delicious feast.

The music should be unobtrusive, allowing for conversation yet adding a touch of elegance to the dining experience.

Consider incorporating personal favourites or songs that hold sentimental value, making the wedding breakfast not just a culinary delight but a melodic journey through your love story.

The Reception

Now that you’re officially wed, it’s time to let loose and celebrate with family and friends. The reception is the ultimate party, and your music choices should reflect your personalities and preferences.

Wedding Reception Checklist:

1. Begin with a first dance song that encapsulates your journey together.
2. Whether it’s a classic ballad or a contemporary hit, make it a reflection of your shared love.
3. Plan a mix of genres and eras to cater to diverse guest tastes.
4. Create playlists for dinner background music and energetic dance beats.
5. Consider the vibe of a live band or skilled DJ (or both) to keep the dance floor alive.

As the reception unfolds, the right music creates an atmosphere of celebration and joy.

Your first dance as a married couple is a highlight, and the song you choose should encapsulate the essence of your journey together. Whether it’s a classic ballad that tugs at the heartstrings or a contemporary hit that gets everyone on their feet, make it a reflection of your shared love.

The Last Dance

As the night draws to a close, the choice of the last dance is crucial. Select a song that resonates with the essence of your celebration.

Last Dance Checklist:

1. Select a song that resonates with the essence of your celebration.
2. Whether a sentimental ballad or an upbeat anthem, make it a memorable moment.
3. Craft a poignant punctuation mark to conclude the celebration.
4. Imagine the strains of your chosen song filling the venue for the final dance.

The last dance is not just a conclusion; it’s a bridge to the beginning of your journey as a married couple. The right song brings the celebration full circle, leaving a lasting impression on you and your guests.

Consider a sentimental ballad that encapsulates the emotions of the day or an upbeat anthem that gets everyone on their feet for a final celebration.

Personal Touches

Remember, there are no strict rules when it comes to choosing wedding music. This wedding song checklist is just a guide. The main thing is to infuse your personality into the playlist with songs that hold sentimental value or reflect shared memories.

Personalisation Checklist:

1. Infuse your personality into the playlist with songs that hold sentimental value.
2. Consider including tracks that represent your cultural background.
3. Seek guidance from wedding professionals for insights and customisation.

Beyond the wedding song checklist, infuse personal touches into your music selections. Consider songs with sentimental value – perhaps the one playing during your first date or a track representing a shared passion. If you and your partner come from different cultural backgrounds, incorporate elements from both, creating a playlist that’s a true reflection of your unique union.

As well as using this wedding song checklist, seek the guidance of wedding professionals such as Musique’s booking coordinators and talented musicians, to help navigate the vast world of music choices. With decades of experience, they can offer valuable insights, ensuring that your soundtrack is not only a reflection of your love but also tailored to suit your unique style.

Are you ready to start planning your perfect wedding playlist? Click here to get started with an enquiry.