Photo courtesy of Bella Bee Photography
News flash – not everyone out there is a big fan of Pachelbel (gasp!). And you know what? It’s totally fine if classical music is not what you see for your ceremony! The ceremony is truly the part of the big day that should best reflect you and your partner, because it will make that moment of saying, “I do” all the more authentic for you, your family, and your guests. So what are some ways you can branch out, musically speaking?
Choose a Different Instrument
Sometimes, the same song played by an electric violin or a saxophone instead of your traditional organ or string quartet can give you exactly the vibe you want for your ceremony. This is also a great way to give a more unique sound to your church ceremony – generally, your song choices will be regulated, but the instrument itself is a little more flexible. Bagpipes sound amazing in a cathedral, and provide a unique exit for the wedding party and guests.
Find Some Songs That Are More You
Pop, rock, jazz, country… What best reflects you? If you’re using a DJ or recorded music for the ceremony, the sky is the limit on choosing your processional and recessional songs. Some couples go traditional for everyone walking in, then set the tone for the reception with a fun exit song. Some couples toss all the traditional songs out the window and go for a more modern selection. Here are some popular recorded songs we’ve seen used in the last year or so that we’ve loved:
– A Thousand Years, Christina Perri
– God Bless the Broken Road, Rascal Flatts
– Signed, Sealed, Delivered, Stevie Wonder
– I Do, Colbie Caillat
– La Vie en Rose, Louis Armstrong
– Make You Feel My Love, Adele
You can also check out these more extensive lists from A Practical Wedding‘s list of hip ceremony music.
Tap Into Cultural Traditions
Are you doing something during the ceremony that involves a cultural tradition – for example, a Celtic hand-fasting or a Navajo blessing? Weave your ceremony together by using music that honors that region or culture for the processional and recessional. Need a little inspiration on what to bring into your ceremony? Check out the articles here and here from The Knot.
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