July 20th, 2012 
Choosing the right music for your wedding ceremony may seem like an easy task, but many brides lose sight of just how many selections are actually necessary!The first step is to consider your wedding ceremony’s venue. In some instances, church ceremonies cannot include non-traditional or non-religious music selections. Check with your officiant to be sure you actually know and understand your musical parameters.
The second step is, of course, to speak to your musicians. Whether you are hiring a church’s organist or a string quartet, you definitely want to find out what pieces they are most comfortable playing.
Once you have gathered all of this data, it is time to consider your actual selections for each part of the ceremony.
(Photo Credit: brides.com)
Here is a breakdown of the selections you will need to think about, plus my personal suggestions for each category. These are just ideas! Be creative and select music that will set the perfect tone and express your personality as a couple!
Prelude: This is music that would be played as guests arrive and find their seats.
Traditional choice: “Ave Maria” by Franz Schubert
Fun choice: “Until The End of Time” by Justin Timberlake
Processional: Music played as the wedding party enters and takes their positions for the ceremony.
Traditional choice: “Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel
Fun choice: “Groovy Kind of Love” by Phil Collins
Bridal Entrance: Music played as the bride enters.
Traditional choice: “Ode to Joy” by Beethoven
Fun choice: “Always Be My Baby” by Mariah Carey
Unity Candle: Meaningful music to mark the importance of the couple joining together as a new family.
Traditional choice: “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban
Fun choice: “Always” by Atlantic Starr
Interlude: Music that captures emotion during an important point in ceremony.
Traditional choice: “Arrival Of The Queen Of Sheba” by Handel
Fun choice: “All My Life” by K-Ci and JoJo
Recessional: Music played after the ceremony is over and the wedding party and newly married couple exit.
Traditional choice: “Brandenburg Concerto No. 1, Allegro” by Johann S. Bach
Fun choice: “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz
Postlude: Music played as guests exit the ceremony venue.
Traditional choice: “Autumn” by Vivaldi
Fun choice: “Beautiful Day” by U2
Looking for more ideas and inspiration for your wedding ceremony music? Check out the lists at WeddingWire which are updated regularly!
