Getting the music and timing right at your wedding ceremony
Think of your music at your wedding ceremony as your personalised soundtrack. It sets the tone and scene for the day, showcases your personality, and can create a very emotional and unforgettable ceremony. However, if you want the music to flow seamlessly, timing is everything.
The Prelude
"Play background music at least 30 minutes before the start." Celebrants Aotearoa celebrant
As the guests start to arrive, mingle and take their seats, play gentle music in the background to create a relaxed atmosphere. You could include songs that the groom likes to help calm their nerves. The music in the prelude will set the mood for the wedding. A fun-loving couple can reflect their personality in the music.
"The groom can enter to music that reflects their personality; they can add a bit of fun such as 'Another one bites the dust'." Celebrants Aotearoa celebrant
Then pause…
The bridal party has arrived. Pause the music.
The Processional
Once everyone is seated, it is time for the bride and her wedding party to make their grand entrance. This processional song is the hook; it sets the tempo of the walk down the aisle, captures the guests' attention, and, most importantly, takes their partner's breath away. A great processional song can bring tears to everyone's eyes.
"Make sure that the bridal party waits for the words to start; otherwise, they would have walked down the aisle before the song has hardly started." Celebrants Aotearoa celebrant
Signing the register
While signing the register, you will need just over five minutes of music. You could use two short songs or play one as a loop. However, if you want to keep your guests entertained during the signing, it is an excellent opportunity to use live instrumental music or ask someone to sing.
"During a signing, the couple's two young daughters sang to the instrumental of 'True colours' as adapted by the Trolls movie. Roars of applause after." Celebrants Aotearoa celebrant
Live music is excellent at a ceremony as the band can always end a song sooner if everyone is ready and settled or fill in the awkward gaps if things are not running as planned.
The Recessional
The recessional song is played as the newlyweds and wedding party exit. The music is traditionally upbeat, fun and celebratory. Remember to play enough songs until all the guests have exited to keep the happy vibe flowing.
Choose a Celebrants Aotearoa celebrant
If you are looking for more advice about your wedding ceremony, a Celebrants Aotearoa marriage celebrant, of your choice, can facilitate your wedding ceremony and can help make your ceremony as personal and meaningful to you as possible.
