Your Wedding Music Guide: From Ceremony to Reception

Music is the soundtrack to your wedding day, setting the mood for every key moment. Whether you want your ceremony to feel timeless or your reception to be the party of the year, choosing the right music is essential. But with so many options, it can feel overwhelming. Don't worry, I’m here to guide you through it! With years of experience performing at weddings, I’ve seen firsthand how music can create magical moments. Here’s my ultimate guide to wedding music, from your walk down the aisle to the last dance of the night.

Ceremony Music

Your ceremony music will likely be the most emotional part of your wedding soundtrack. For the processional (walking down the aisle), many couples still love the classics, like “Canon in D” by Pachelbel. It’s timeless and elegant, perfect for creating a tear-jerking moment. However, if you’re after something more personal, modern songs like Alicia Keys “If I Ain’t Got You” or Beyonce’s cover of “XO” can be just as moving.

During the signing of the register, you’ll want something soft and atmospheric to play in the background. Acoustic covers work beautifully here, as they’re familiar but don’t pull attention away from the moment.

For the recessional (walking back down the aisle as a married couple), it’s time to bring the joy! Choose something upbeat and celebratory. I’ve performed “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” by Stevie Wonder many times—it’s always a hit!

Cocktail Hour

Your Cocktail hour is a chance for guests to mingle while you’re off taking photos, so the music should be fun and relaxed. Acoustic versions of popular songs are a great option because they’re recognizable without being overpowering. I love to perform stripped-down versions of songs like “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston or “Simply The Best” by Tina Turner. These choices keep the mood light and romantic, but not too intense.

Reception & First Dance

Your first dance is one of the most intimate moments of the day. It’s your chance to slow things down and just enjoy a moment with your new spouse. Whether you go for a classic like “At Last” by Etta James or something more contemporary like “I Could Get Used to This” by Becky Hill, choose a song that feels meaningful to you both.

For the reception, it’s time to get the party started! Your guests will be ready to hit the dance floor, so keep the energy up with crowd-pleasers. I recommend songs like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell or “Murder on the Dancefloor” by Sophie Ellis-Bextor. And don’t forget to throw in a few slow songs for the couples in the room—something like “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley is always a romantic choice.

When planning your wedding music, think of it as the emotional heartbeat of your day. Each song will create a moment, and when done right, music can elevate your wedding to something truly unforgettable. Whether you choose live music (which I highly recommend!) or a carefully curated playlist, let your personality and love story shine through. Trust me, the right music will help make every moment magical!

If you have any further queries or need a bit more inspiration into the perfect soundtrack for your special day, please feel free to email me at hello@miagarnermusic.com, or by completing the enquiry form on my website.

Happy Planning!