Wedding music is an instrumental part of the wedding day (no pun intended). From the first song as guests arrive to the venue, to the last song of the night. Music sets the tone and invites your guests to join the celebration. Wedding music can invoke feelings of nostalgia or sentimentality, therefore it’s vital that you pick exactly what you want. I’m sharing my best advice and ideas on how to ensure your wedding music choices are the best reflection of your love story.
The Ceremony
The ceremonial wedding music is the first, and perhaps the biggest impression, creating the mood for your big day. Think soft, soothing, romantic sounds as guests arrive and mingle before taking their seat. While some opt for a classic DJ, others prefer live music such as a guitarist, sax player, or violinist. A trio of musicians can be a spellbinding addition, typically featuring harp, guitar and bass.
The wedding officially begins when you walk down the aisle, so make sure to pick wedding music that you truly love. Canon in D and the Bridal Chorus are a couple of timeless and tasteful choices. But don’t be afraid to mix in something more contemporary if it speaks to you.
If you are a Taylor Swift fan, maybe “Lover” is the perfect song. Are you into oldies, but goodies? Glide down the aisle to “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles. Let your music speak to who you are as a couple.
If you want the party to start when you walk in, there’s no rule the says you can’t go straight into dance music. Who can forget the viral video of the bridal party dancing down the aisle to “Forever” by Chris Brown?
Here’s a list of some of the most popular wedding songs.
Wedding Music At The Cocktail Hour
When in Mexico, go for the mariachi! Have a lively Mariachi group build up the festive energy as guests arrive to the cocktail hour and grab a frosty beverage. If you only want them to perform at the start of cocktail hour, feel free to switch gears (and the mood!) a little later to a guitarist /duo or DJ. I recommend your cocktail hour wedding music should be upbeat and fun, but not quite full dance party mood (yet!). You want to save that for later in the evening. Your chosen entertainers will provide you with their song list.
Let them know what the ‘must-plays’ songs are and definitely, what is on the ‘do-not-play-list.’ If you want them to play a special song, give the musicians ample time to learn it.
Click here for a feel-good playlist (as seen on Brides).
Wedding Music For The Reception
Now, the big question: band or DJ? The easiest deciding factor for this comes down to budget. Bands can get expensive. Is there a local band you love? Are you considering flying down your favorite band from the states? Narrow down the top options, then compare pricing.
We have amazing local talent right here in Los Cabos. But, if you are dead set on flying down a group, keep in mind all the added costs like flights, transportation, hotel, and meals. Those things can add up fast. Talk to your planner about ways to scale back in other areas like flowers or the bar to off-set these added costs.
It’s hard to beat a good DJ. They have access to endless songs and always know how to read a room and get everyone on the dance floor. The easiest way to pick a DJ is to first decide what type of music you like. What are you into? Country, Dance, Hip Hop, Pop, Rock, House, Latin…or a mix of everything? Once you identify this, it will be easy to hone in on a DJ that matches your vibe.
Decisions, Decisions
Still having a hard time choosing between musical acts for your wedding music? Don’t worry! You can pick one for the wedding and utilize the rest for other events throughout the weekend. Have the mariachi band at the welcome fiesta. Perhaps a Spanish guitar for an intimate dinner. If you can’t afford the band for the entire wedding night, use them for the rehearsal dinner the night before for a couple hours. There are so many amazing groups to choose from locally.
Click here for moving first dance songs.
Beyond The Wedding Music
Entertainment goes beyond music. If you want to include some additional fun elements to your wedding, consider salsa dancers. They can put on a show, then grab guests and bring them out on the dance floor.
How cool would it be to have water drums choreographed to DJ music? Or a cold fireworks show as the groom dips the bride on the dance floor during their first dance. If you want the ultimate showstopper, a cake cutting with cued Disneyland style fireworks will leave your guest in awe, making for an epic photo op.
The possibilities for wedding music and added extras are endless so let your imagination run wild. This is your moment and I encourage you to include everything your heart and creative mind desires!
Cheers!
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