Every couple hopes for the perfect music throughout their wedding ceremony. Whether the wedding is formal, informal or religious, the flow of the music sets the pace and brings the right atmosphere to your celebration. Plan your ceremony well, and the music will flow seamlessly through to the end, giving your wedding a deeper meaning and uphold religious as well as family traditions. The secret to an excellent wedding ceremony song order lies in the timing. Also, each part of the ceremony has its own musical accompaniment that breaks the ceremony into sections.
Wedding Ceremony Song Order
Prelude Music
This music begins when the guests arrive and take their seats. This is often light, ambient and melodic music that sets the mood as your guests gather. The music may start as early as 45 minutes prior, usually when the doors open, but no later than 20 minutes before the ceremony begins.
Seating of the Mothers and Family Members
Once the prelude is over, mothers and sometimes grandmothers are escorted down the aisle. However, some prefer the seating of the mothers to take place during the prelude while others prefer it to be at the beginning of the processional before attendants walk down the aisle. Some couples will even choose to include aunts/uncles as well.
Processional for The Groom, and Officiant
This can be a continuation of the same piece when the mothers are taking their seats or different music. Sometimes, the groom, groomsmen and the officiant go to the front from the side after which the bridesmaids and maid of honor process down the aisle one by one. Some couples prefer gentle and elegant music for this part while others opt for a regal feel.
Processional music for the Bridesmaids,
If the groomsmen do not walk up with the groom, they will walk with bridesmaids. Typically they will walk in pairs.
Processional Music for The Flower Girl and Ring Bearer 
Flower girls and ring bearers either walk separately or as a pair. You have the option to choose a new song or go with the same song for the entire entrance of the wedding party.
Bridal Processional
After procession of the flower girl and ring bearer, church wedding songs begin for the bride’s entrance. The official will signal for all to stand. The bride is often escorted by her father up the aisle or sometimes chooses to walk unaccompanied.
Special Music During the Ceremony
Weddings present numerous opportunities for music. For instance, music can be performed during the sand or unity candle ceremony, between readings, during communion, or after vows.
Recessional
Once the couple has been announced, the recessional begins and ends when everyone in the wedding party has exited. This is traditionally lively, bright music that reflects celebration and joy. We talked with one of the top wedding DJs and their advice was to include a postlude which is a selection of music played as guests head towards the cocktail hour and reception.
In Conclusion
Music is more than merely pleasant sound. It’s also a perfect means of expression, with the ability to express things that words cannot. Let your wedding ceremony song order guide your special day and echo the vows that you and your loved one will uphold forever. Remember it is best to plan the song order in advance, to ensure the DJ or band will be able to play the songs you’d like to hear.