The traditional sequence for the ceremony music is as follows...
- Prelude: Begins
thirty minutes before the processional, before
the bride arrives for the ceremony. This
allows the guests to be seated, and it gives
them a chance to relax and reflect. The prelude
music sets the mood for the ceremony so many
couples choose to play soothing, peaceful selections
that set a romantic and elegant tone.
- Processional: Begins
immediately after
the mother of the bride is seated. The processional
music is played while the wedding party
and bride walk down the aisle. It is common to
have one song playing as the attendants walk and
then transition into the bridal chorus ("Here
Comes the Bride") just before the bride
and her father begin down the aisle.
- Soloist/Choir/Musicians
(if used): Vocalists
and/or instrumentalists may perform at various
points in the ceremony; talk to your officiant
about where such interludes are to be incorporated.
Work with your officiant to select appropriate
songs that have special meaning for specific parts
of the ceremony.
- Recessional: Begins
immediately after the bride and groom have been
announced as husband and wife. The recessional
continues as the entire wedding party
exits. This music should be very joyous and upbeat.
- Postlude: Begins immediately after the recessional and should continue until your guests have left the ceremony site. You should plan about 10 to 20 minutes worth of lively music to keep your guests moving on out and on to the reception in a celebratory mood.
For a list of popular ceremony music selections, click here.
NOTE: Some places of worship will not allow your ceremony to incorporate "secular" musical pieces (i.e. music that is not religious in nature.) Consult the officiant and/or the music director at your ceremony location to determine if there are any restrictions of this kind.
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