Selecting wedding songs is a very important part of preparing for your special day. Every couple wants the songs played at their wedding to be just right, but sometimes it can be hard to pick the right ones.
So how do you choose the right songs? Several factors play an important part in finding the music that works for you and your wedding.
The Setting
Your wedding music may depend on where you're holding it. It will be different in a religious setting than in another environment. If your ceremony isn’t in a church or synagogue, then you’ll be able to choose whatever kind of music you like. However, if your wedding is going to be held in a religious setting, then you’ll need to follow the guidelines of that particular church.
In a religious ceremony, the wedding is often seen as a form of worship. Depending on which church or religion, you may face strict guidelines or have very few limits. I’ve been to church weddings that have played religious music only while others have played contemporary pop.
Make sure to run your choice by whoever is in charge so that you don’t cause any problems on your special day.
Vocal Music
Many weddings have some form of live music being played in sections of the ceremony. If you want to have a live entertainment then you need to figure out what time of the ceremony is most appropriate. There are usually a few different opportunities:
• During the seating of the mothers or candle-lighting.
• Before the processional.
• Immediately before the vows
• During the lighting of the Unity Candle
• During the communion service.
You’ll likely need to hire musicians, but try contacting friends or family friends who may be singers to see if they’d like to get involved; they’d most likely be honored. Stress they should choose words that fit your relationship well.
A vocal duet with a male and female is always a safe choice, as it blends well and carries the feeling of a couple. If you are musically gifted, then you might even want to consider the option of singing a song at your own wedding.
Instrumental Music
You’ll have the option of choosing instrumental music to fill in some of those moments of the ceremony that need a little something to maintain the mood. Some of the more popular instrumental options include the violin, a piano, the church organ, a harp, or even a string quartet. You can also have instrumental music during the procession or the recession.
If your live performance isn’t going to have any vocals involved, then you’ll want to make sure that it is powerful and able to invoke emotion. Always make sure that your musicians are trained and prepared for that day – although it’s impossible to guarantee that no mistakes will be made.
Finding the Right Songs
You’ll probably want to spend most of the time choosing your vocal music, as the words usually have a special meaning behind them. If your couple has a song that is considered “your song,” then you should definitely consider using it, assuming that it is appropriate for the ceremony.
If you’re having a tough time finding a song, go through your CD collection to find a choice that reminds you of the one you love – or perhaps even something that conveys a message about your future together.
For instrumental music, the decision might be more difficult. If you love classical music, this might not be a problem, but many people don’t know instrumental songs unless they are a musician themselves. If you’re having a tough time finding a song that works, ask the musician that will perform if there are songs they recommend. Sift through your options and choose something that fits well with your desires.
If you can’t find music that works – keep looking! You’ll only have one wedding ceremony, so you want to do it right.
Custom Song Writing
If you have somebody close to you that is extremely gifted as a songwriter, then you might want to consider the option of having a song written for your wedding. It may be more meaningful in the long run. Be sure to give the songwriter plenty of time in advance to compose the right song for the moment.
If the songwriter is composing from your perspective, then be specific about what you want the song to convey. However, if they’re writing it as a close friend or family member looking at your future life, then it can be incredibly powerful to have the musician write something original on their own and sing it to you as a couple.
Reception
While most people choose a DJ to figure out the music at the reception, some couples choose to pick the songs and performers themselves. You’ll always be able to make suggestions to the DJ, and you'll have more control over choices played during the reception.
Choose Wisely
While music certainly isn’t the focal point of any wedding, music can heighten the experience or lessen it. If you choose your songs right and have everything set up perfectly, you’ll be thankful that you spent the time and effort. There’s nothing more embarrassing than having poor music throughout your wedding day!
By selecting your wedding songs wisely, your wedding will be more enjoyable - and be everything that you want it to be.
