How Many Songs Are Played at a Wedding Ceremony – Songs for Wedding

How Many Songs Are Played at a Wedding Ceremony

Are you getting married anytime soon? If you are, you may be wondering about the songs to be played in your wedding. Besides choosing the ideal songs for wedding, you might also be wondering about how many songs are played at a wedding ceremony. To know more about this, read on.

How Many Songs Are Played at a Wedding Ceremony

We will discuss everything related to the songs needed for the wedding and when those songs are played. There are different times when the songs are played and there is no hard and fast rule about the songs needed for a wedding. It all depends on different situations.

Number of Songs to be Played

How Many Songs Are Played at a Wedding Ceremony
How Many Songs Are Played at a Wedding Ceremony

You have to keep in mind that the songs will start to play 15 to 30 minutes before each and every ceremony starts. This background music is given to set the mood of the day and when the guests are entering. But the number of songs, and the song order, to be played depends on:

  1. Number of Ceremonies: Some of the ceremonies come with beautiful small rituals. There can be a song ideal for all these small rituals. You can play a song for each of these ceremonies. But if the ritual is longer than the song, then the musician will repeat the song if there is no second option available.
  2. Processional: When the bridesmaids are walking, you need to play a beautiful background song. Make sure that the song is lengthy enough to cover the entire processional ceremony.
  3. Song for Groom and Groomsmen: Generally, the groom and groomsmen already stand at the altar. But there are some exceptional cases too. If your groom and the groomsmen are walking down to the altar, you can play a song at this point of time to match the vibe and energy.

Final Word

Songs are meant to describe the emotions and feelings. When the bride is walking down the aisle or when the couple is exchanging vows or having their first dance, thousands of emotions go through them. The songs must be able to express those emotions and feelings in words. This can set the right mood and feel for the ceremony. So, there are no such limitations to how many songs are played at a wedding ceremony. You can use as many as songs you like for the ceremonies but make sure they are going perfectly with the moment.

Wedding Song Ideas

Planning a wedding can be both exciting and stressful. There’s often a near-endless to-do list and there never seems to be enough time. However, putting together a wedding playlist is probably one of the most fun items on your wedding to-do list. Whether you opt for a self-selected shuffle or hire a professional DJ, it’s important to pick the right music for every key moment. A few wedding song ideas should make your work a lot easier.

Wedding Song Ideas

Wedding Song Ideas

When it comes to the music you need for a wedding, you’ll want music for the ceremony, getting ready, first dances, and more. This post is a compilation of great tracks you should consider for your wedding. It covers a wide range of songs from different genres and with different beats and tempos. From indie songs to pop songs, here are some songs for your wedding.

Train – Marry Me

As the title implies, this song is about marriage and acting on your love for your partner. It’s an amazing tune that’s one of today’s favorite first dance songs. This song is just perfect for a wedding reception but can also work for a processional because the tempo isn’t too fast. 

Justin Timberlake – Mirrors

If you’re looking for a first dance song that’s both romantic and sexy, then you’ll never go wrong with this one.

Love Actually – Glasgow Love Theme

Add a personal touch to your wedding playlist by incorporating instrumental music from your favorite film. There are plenty of options to choose from and Love Actually is a great song to walk down the aisle to.

The Piano Guys – A Thousand Years

This track offers the best of both worlds – a blend between a modern love song with vocals and a classic instrumental. It’s an instrumental cover of Christina Perri’s song, focusing mainly on the cello and piano. This is a great track for the processional.

Wagner – Bridal Chorus

And who said you can’t go traditional? This track has stood the test of time as one of the most popular professional wedding songs. However, there’s no harm in going for a slightly more modern arrangement by Vicente Avella.

John Legend – All of MeWedding Song Ideas

This song tells a story of love that’s just ideal for a wedding. The song was released in 2013 but it’s still a wedding favorite to this day. This one will not disappoint as a first dance song. This can also be a song to walk down the aisle.

Heavy D & The Boyz – Now That We Found Love

Are you looking for something truly different? Then this track should be a great one to get people on the dance floor and all hyped up. Get ready to put on your dancing shoes and show off your moves.

Handel – Arrival of The Queen of Sheba

This classic piece is perfect for traditional couples. It’s undoubtedly joyful and has a high tempo that works perfectly for a recessional.

Bottom Line

These wedding song ideas mentioned are just the tip of the iceberg. There’s really no “one-size-fits-all” playlist out there but you can get a general idea of how many songs you need in your wedding playlist. The trick is to choose songs that your audience will resonate with. IF you are unsure, you can always talk with your wedding DJ to discuss services and music ideas. Try to mix things up so you have a little bit of something for the different age groups and categories of people in attendance.

Wedding Reception Song Order

Songs are part of every wedding. They keep everyone alert and tell you when it is a transition from one section to the next. In most cases, the couples would choose the kind of songs they want. If you are not conversant with the songs, you can have a wedding planner do the heavy lifting for you. One of the things you should get right is the wedding reception song order. 

Wedding Reception Song Order

If you are trying to get a perfect order for your wedding songs, then your timing is right. This post will tell you when and which song should be playing. It will also help you choose songs that are in sync with your wedding theme. 

 

Guests arriving at the reception venue

 

Some guests will arrive at the venue ahead of time. You should have something to keep them entertained. You can as well wait until the most Wedding Reception Song Order important guests make their entry. Choose a song that will start your wedding on a high note. 

 

Reception party introduction

 

It is not a must to have this in the schedule. If you decide to include it, you should line up those making entry in good order. Follow the standard order where the parents from both sides make an entry, and the groom and bride are the last to come in. 

 

Bride and bridegroom introduction

 

When the bride and groom make an entry, it is a perfect time to introduce them to the guests. Make sure the master of ceremony knows how you would like to be introduced. The order of names is particularly important. 

 

Meal time

 

It is time to eat, and both the bride and groom are first in line. Make sure you do not keep the guests waiting for you to get served. They are hungry, and a bite will make them joyful. Consider having background music play while Wedding Reception Song Order guests eat their food. 

 

Cutting cake

 

Cake cutting is a big part of the wedding. It is a symbol of sharing and caring. You just got into marriage, and you will want to show tenderness and affection to each other. Make sure forks are ready as they will make the moment photogenic. 

 

Married couple first dance

It is now time for the bride and groom to hit the dance floor for the first time as married couples. You should choose a song that you can dance to. If possible, do some practice before the wedding ceremony.

 

 Father and daughter, groom and mother dance

 

Here is another round of dancing. The bride takes her father’s hand to dance in celebration. The groom dances with his mother. You can pick one song for both dances or separate ones. 

 

Garter and bouquet tossing

 

The bride will take the bouquet and toss it to the direction of single women. The woman who catches it is going to be up next in line of marriage. Get songs to go well with this activity. 

 

Everyone dancing and having fun

 

Wedding music is important. It is time for everyone to get up and shake a leg. Have songs in place to bring everyone to their feet. 

 

You now have your wedding reception song order sorted. Choose the song and let your guests enjoy every bit of the ceremony. 

How Many Songs Do You Need For a Wedding Ceremony

When you’re planning a wedding, it can be difficult to figure out the number of songs needed for the ceremony. So, how many songs do you need for a wedding ceremony? While there’s no exact number of songs for any wedding, you can get an estimate of the songs you need to play based on the parts of the ceremony.

How Many Songs Do You Need For a Wedding Ceremony

This guide details all the different portions of most wedding ceremonies where there could be music. The post covers most variations of different weddings to estimate the number of songs that would be played at most weddings. This way you have your wedding songs figured out. 

Seating of the parents

For some ceremonies, the wedding couple will select music for seating of the parents. In some cases, the parents will walk in with the regular processional music. Pretty much anything quite will work for this part of the ceremony.

A song for the processional

This is almost always for the bridesmaids walking down the aisle  but sometimes the groom and the groomsmen will walk to the processional as well. However, this is not the bride’s song.How Many Songs Do You Need For a Wedding Ceremony

Groom and groomsmen

In some weddings, the groom and groomsmen are already at the altar. While they sometimes walk to the processional, they can choose to have their own separate entrance song. There’s no right or wrong way, it really comes down to personal preference. If you have an extremely large wedding party, it’s possible to have two songs for one long processional.

Flower girl

As far as the music is concerned, is the flower girl walking with the bride or bridesmaids? Some people opt to pick a separate song for the flower girls.

Bride song

The bride needs to walk down the aisle with one song. This can be a funny song, traditional, indie. or heartfelt; this one is totally up to you to decide. 

Ceremony beginsHow Many Songs Do You Need For a Wedding Ceremony

Typically, you shouldn’t have any music while the officiant is talking but some people prefer some light background music if the officiant is mixed.

Readings, vow, rings

If you are exchanging vows, you may want some nice instrumental music in the background. You may opt to have different songs for these, or not.

Prayer (if applicable)

If your wedding is going to have a prayer, you might want to have a song for this. Sand ceremony, unity candle, hand binding. You may choose either to have a song for this portion of the wedding or not.

Communion

If you’re going to be doing communion, consider having a song or more depending on the length.

Recessional 

This refers to the period when the couple is walking down the aisle when the ceremony is over so you might want to have a song for this as well.

Postlude

This is the exit music. For this, you may opt for some background music.

Bottom line

The wedding ceremony song order is important to remember. So, how many songs do you need for the wedding ceremony? The simple answer is that it depends on the parts of the ceremony. With the tips mentioned, you should have a rough estimate of the number of songs needed. It also helps to hire a competent DJ or band that will always pick something nice to fill any gaps.

Funny Bridal Entrance Songs

Traditional bridal entrance songs have somewhat always had a slow, set tone. However, you don’t always have to have a settled order, ritual and music. If you want your guests to be more involved and you’re bored with old conventions, consider using funny bridal entrance songs that will keep your guests happy through their fun lyrics and rhythm.Funny Bridal Entrance Songs

Funny Bridal Entrance Songs

In this article, we’ll consider a few funny songs that you can choose for your wedding ceremony entrance or your reception.

Pharrell Williams – Happy

This song is without a doubt Happy. It will have your guests smiling, laughing and clapping, especially if you’re able to incorporate some nice choreography to match the song. It’s also an amazing track for a noisy round of applause.

Meghan Trainor – Dear Future Husband

This song has some quirky lyrics and can make for a great entrance song before the ceremony. It’s a fun song that will keep your guests in a good mood.

George Strait – Lovebug

Honky-tonk songs always seem to have a stimulating beat and Gorge Strait’s Lovebug is an ideal example of this. He manages to pair a merry rhythm with even happier lyrics about Love. This song will work especially well for a country-style wedding.

Haddaway – What Is Love

This song is quite popular, and the lyrics are very catchy. It’s an appropriate song for weddings especially if you consider the lyrics.

LMFAO – Sexy And I Know It

This is another wedding favorite, but you should put on a show to go with the song’s heavy beat. If you’re sure you can pull it off, then you’ll give your guests a wedding experience they’ll be talking about for decades to come.

Trace Adkins – Ladies Love Country Boys

This is another great song for country lovers out there. It’s the classic tale of a city girl who falls for a country boy. The lyrics and beat make it fun.

Keith – I Like Girls That Drink Beer

This is probably one of the best funny bridal entrance songs you can add to your wedding playlist. It’s a lot of fun and even much better if you and your spouse both love beer.

Lmfao – Party Rock Anthem

This is a great song for your reception entrance or even for your bridesmaids. The lyrics tell it all, encouraging your guests to get the party started. Be prepared for loud cheers and let the party start.

Georges Bizet – Overture Carmen

If you like classical music but don’t want to use any traditional bridal entrance songs, then this is the right song for you. It’s a lively, anthem-like tune that’s also great if you’re a Formula 1 fan.

KISS – I Was Made for Loving You

This is for all the rock fans. Backed by congas, bass and acoustic guitar, it’s without a doubt a nice love song with a captivating rhythm. It’s the perfect fun song for a rocker wedding.

Bottom Line

Other funny bridal entrance songs to consider include The Champions League Anthem by Tony Britten, The Way You Make Me Feel by Michael Jackson and Highway to Hell by AC/DC. Ultimately, it all boils down to personal preference when it comes to any of the songs that you need for your wedding such as background music and more. Try to go for songs that you love but also ones that your guests will appreciate, and know which songs not to play on this big day. 

Fast Love Songs for Weddings

Are you looking for the right fast love songs for weddings? If yes, you have many choices. All you have to do is to check the internet and you will come across scores of such songs. Each of the songs are unique in their own way, and therefore it would be a good idea to have a look at a few of them. 

Fast Love Songs for WeddingsFast Love Songs for Weddings

No wedding is complete without love songs, and if it is a fast love song then there are reasons to feel even more thrilled about it. Here are some tips for love songs you need at your wedding that could go well with the guests and also keeping the hosts in the best of spirits and moods. 

I Gotta A Feeling 

This is a wonderful and fast number from The Black Eyed Peas. It is raunchy and it has a good beat and rhythm that could be a big hit for those who are on the lookout for fast numbers for their weddings. It is hugely popular and if you look at YouTube you will be amazed to know that it has more than 400 million views. Therefore, this is often one of the most popular numbers played as love songs during weddings. 

Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond 

Neil Diamond needs no introduction and this particular number is certainly fast and it makes even non-dancers to move and shake their hands and legs. The rhythm is very catchy and the lyrics are also quite interesting. If you are looking for something special and fast for your wedding, then talk with your wedding DJ to include this number from Neil Diamond. 

Prince – 1999

Prince is a famous and talented singer and the early 1980s saw him come out with some fascinating numbers. 1999 is the fifth studio album and ever since it was released on October 27, 1982 it has been a big hit and has more than 10 million views on YouTube, making it very popular. It is a must for many weddings because of its speed, and therefore you could keep this on your song list if you want your guests to enjoy the dancefloor. 

Taio Cruz – Dynamite

With around 89 million plays, there is no denying the fact that Dynamite continues to be one of the most sought after fast love songs for any weddings. It will certainly be a big hit amongst the younger generations and many people belonging to the middle age will also like it very much. Tiao Cruz has literally set the stage on fire and feet tapping with this fast and rhythmic number. 

Wild Thing – Tone LoC

If you wish to really have a delightful, fast and pulsating love song for weddings, there is no reason why you should not go in for Wild Thing from Tone LoC. It was recorded in 1988 and was released in January 1989. It has recorded more than 21 million views on YouTube and it is a must hear for those who love rap. 

Conclusion

The above are just a few examples of fast love songs for weddings to include in your reception playlist. All you have to do is to spend some time on the internet and you will certainly be able to come across dozens of such songs. You can choose any of them according to your taste and preferences. 

Wedding Music Tips

Creating the perfect playlist for your wedding takes some planning. Want to keep your guests in the right mood for your big day? Here are a few wedding music tips to bear in mind when coming up with a list of songs for your wedding.

Wedding Music Tips

Decide on Your Budget

Start by deciding how much you’re ready to spend. Ultimately, you get what you pay for. So, consider whether you want to invest in a DJ or band made of seasoned pros or one comprising a couple of amateurs who are simply looking for some extra weekend cash.

Mix It Up

String quartets work well for weddings. However, there’s no harm in going for something less classical. Always inquire about your musical options. Gangsta’s Paradise by Coolio or Pharrell Williams’ Happy played on the harp can add a unique twist to your playlist and spice things up.

Check Out an Entertainment Agency

While it’s crucial to spare time to vet potential musicians and bands, workingWedding Music Tips with an entertainment agency makes the whole process much easier. An agency will help you to find a band or DJ that fits your budget in no time. Your typical agency will also offer instant price and date checks, allowing you to compare hundreds of different arts from the comfort of your smartphone or computer.

Consider a Musical Balance

When choosing the style of music, you’d like for your wedding day, try to strike a balance. Your wedding coordinator will help you decide on music you like while also considering your guests as well. The trick here is to think about the ages and tastes of most people at your wedding.

Add to the Occasion

Emotive music can go a long way in putting some icing on the cake for special parts of the ceremony. For instance, you can have a harpist playing some nice music as you sign the register.

Keep the Reception Music Classy

It’s highly likely that you’ll miss most of the music while you’re away at the photo shoot, so the drinks reception is more for your guests. Since there’s likely to be a whole range of ages, you want to go for a wide variety that caters to each group. People like to hear something they recognize so if you’re choosing a DJ to go for one that can play a wide variety of styles and genres.

Consider Your Walk Down the Aisle

Once your guests are seated, and it’s time for the bride to make her entrance, be sure to carefully consider the perfect track for the procession. The walk down the aisle is important for the bride and everyone in the bridal party.

End on a High

Make sure you end on a note fitting the event. Most couples opt to end the day on a traditional note, playing songs such as Auld Lang Syne. But it doesn’t always have to end this way. Something more upbeat such as Rocking’ All Over The World can do a perfect job. With these day of wedding music tips, you should be able to create a memorable playlist that will have everyone talking about your wedding for years to come.

Hilarious Wedding Songs

Wedding songs can be boring and monotonous. If you’re looking for something much more fun and exciting, there are plenty of hilarious wedding songs you can choose for your wedding entrance, reception or final dance. Here are a few songs to make your guests happy and leave them in stitches.

Hilarious Wedding Songs

Wedding songs can be difficult to select. From walking down the aisle, to background music, to reception music; there are many songs to choose from. Below is a list of some fun songs you can play at your wedding.

Dear Future Husband-Meghan Trainor

Let’s face it, the lyrics to this song make for an exciting narrative. As a future wife, are you ready to bear it all before the groom and everyone else that you can hardly cook and are never wrong? The lyrics are priceless, and the song can be a great entrance song.

Lovebug-George Strait

If you’re a fan of country music, then this track should work some magic into your wedding. This stimulating song pairs merry rhythm with some fun lyrics Hilarious Wedding Songsabout love. The beat is fantastic, which makes it the ideal song for a country-style wedding.

Sexy and I Know It-LMFAO

This is a heavy beat, so you really need to put a show that goes with the energy of the song. It’s also surprisingly popular at weddings and if you have the confidence to do it, be sure to give your guests a show they’ll never forget.

What Is Love-Haddaway

This is a popular song that most if not all your guests will recognize. It’s a fun tune and strangely humorous considering the lyrics.

Happy-Pharrell Williams

The song’s title says it all. It will get your audience laughing, smiling and clapping, especially if you incorporate some nice choreography to complement the songs tempo and overall appeal. It’s the perfect song for a happy fun crowd and be sure to expect a noisy round of applause.

I Like Girls That Drink Beer-Keith

This one is for all the beer lovers out there. It’s a great way to incorporate something personal that you enjoy into your big day. The song is also a lot of fun and can make for a funny bride and groom entrance song.

Starships-Nicki Minaj

This Nicki Minaj tune can be an excellent reception song. Don’t shy away from singing along and showing off some of your coolest dance moves.

I Believe in a Thing Called Love-The Darkness

You should tell your spouse that you believe in love, and that’s why you married than in the first place. So why not tell them on your wedding day through this great song.

Ladies Love Country Boys-Trace Adkins

This is a popular and fun country song that narrates the story of a city girl who fell in love with a country boy. The lyrics are interesting, and the beat is uplifting. Who doesn’t love a good love story? Even better if your love story is similar enough so your guests can make some connection.

Weddings traditionally have a settled order, ritual and music. But there’s nothing wrong with having some fun and laughter. These hilarious wedding signs should get your guests more involved in the wedding. According to American writer Josh Billings “laughter is the fireworks of the soul.”

Songs to Not Play at a Wedding

So, you are preparing for your big day. Things are all set. The guest list is ready and you have done all the arrangements to create lifetime memories. Now, this is the time to choose music and songs for your wedding.  Your main focus will be on the best and popular songs for all times to get the appreciations of your guests as well as to set their mood for the celebration. You might be choosing some popular songs for your dance floor, reception, and cocktail. However, you need to give equal importance to songs to not play at a wedding.

Songs to Not Play at a Wedding

Songs to Not Play at a Wedding

All your chosen songs might not be perfect for your wedding ceremony. You will have to make a list of the songs that you need to avoid. In fact, some of the popular songs might not be appreciated by your guests when celebrating your wedding. They might find the meaning inappropriate. Therefore, it is important to avoid all those songs that can really create an unfavorable environment.  

Are you a bit confused? Do you want to know which songs you should avoid in your wedding ceremony?  If yes, you are in the right place. In this article, we will help you with a list of songs that you can add in your not to playlist. You can also use your judgment to find out which songs will be inappropriate for your big day. Here are a few suggestions:

  • AC/DC – Highway To Hell
    • 1979, Rock
  • Aerosmith – Dude Looks Like a Lady
    • 1987, Rock
  • Bruno Mars – When I Was Your Man
    • 2002, Pop
  • Aerosmith – Dude Looks Like a Lady
    • 1987, Rock
  • Black Eyed Peas – My Humps
    • 2005, Dance
  • Cole Swindell – Reason to Drink
    • 2018, Country
  • George Strait – All My Ex’s Live In Texas
    • 1987, Country
  • Bon Jovi – You Give Love A Bad Name
    • 1986, Rock
  • George Strait – All My Ex’s Live In Texas
    • 1987, Country
  • Ernie K-Doe – Mother-In-Law
    • 1961, R&B
  • Cole Swindell – Break Up In The End
    • 2018, Country
  • Barry McGuire – Eve of Destruction
    • 1965, Rock
  • Journey – Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)
    • 1983, Rock
  • J. Geils Band-Love Stinks
    • 1980, Rock
  • Celine Dion – My Heart Will Go On
    • 1997, Pop
  • David Lee Roth – Just A Gigolo
    • 1985, Rock
  • Gloria Gaynor – I Will Survive
    • 1978, Disco
  • Kanye West – Gold Digger
    • 2005, Hip Hop
  • Drake – Fake Love
    • 2016, Hip Hop
  • Joy Division – Love Will Tear Us Apart
    • 1980, Punk
  • Jordan Davis – Singles You Up
    • 2018, Country
  • Old Dominion – Break Up With Him
    • 2015, Country

You can consider above songs to not play at a wedding. Most of them do not have an appropriate meaning to suit a wedding ceremony.

Background Music For Wedding Dinner – Adding to the Ambiance

Background music for wedding dinner entails setting the right ambiance for your reception. This means that the music should not be too hectic or loud to prevent your guests from mingling, chatting, and enjoying their meal, and neither should it be too slow to make the room lull or make your guest feel bored. It should be a real balancing act to accommodate the needs of everybody and the atmosphere in your reception. If you want your wedding dinner to stand out, choose some of your favorite songs or your visitors requested tunes that were not dance floor-worthy. We have compiled the best background music for wedding dinner but before that, here are some tips that will ensure you choose the best.

Background Music For Wedding Dinner

Tips to Consider When Selecting Music:

Event Synergy says your playlist should have a mix of genres, a combination of unknown and popular songs, a variety of tempos, and a vibe that will accommodate all your guests and create the ambiance your guests will desire. Sometimes the best option is to hire a live band if it fits well into the budget.

 

When it comes to choosing the right background music, following your emotions may do the best for you. Do you want to feel romantic, celebratory, Background Music For Wedding Dinner or relaxed? There are definitely cool songs based on how you want you and your guests to feel.

 

One thing you must remember is to stay away from dance music. The best background music for a wedding needs to be low tempo and not energetic. Save that music for the dance floor.  Also make sure you allocate enough music for the time it takes for dinner to be done.

 

The Best Background Music For Wedding Dinner:

Now that you know the tips to consider when choosing background music for your wedding dinner, here is a list that will not disappoint you or your guests:

 

  • Lucky – Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat
  • I’ll Be – Edwin McCain
  • A Thousand Years (Part 2) – Christina Perri
  • To Make You Feel My Love – Adele
  • I’m Yours – Jason Mraz
  • H.O.L.Y. – Florida Georgia Line
  • Use Somebody (Feat. Hannah Trigwell) – Boyce Avenue
  • Cowboys and Angels – Dustin Lynch
  • All of Me – John Legend
  • A Sunday Kind of Love — Etta James
  • Always Be My Baby — Mariah Carey
  • Can’t Help Falling in Love — Elvis Presley
  • Crazy Love — Van Morrison
  • Cross that Line — Joshua Radin
  • First Day of My Life — Bright Eyes

 

Bottom line

Your wedding is one of the most special days in your life, therefore it is essential that everything is perfect. Therefore selecting the best background music for wedding dinner is an important component on your wedding day.