Creating the perfect atmosphere for your wedding starts with having the right wedding music checklist. Music is one of the most important elements of the day, so having a well-thought-out plan is key.
There are many parts of a wedding that are best kept traditional—the white dress, matching bridesmaids, maybe even a cake made of actual cheese. But music? That’s where you can break from tradition and make the biggest impact. It's the easiest way to set the tone and create an unforgettable atmosphere for your day. By following this wedding music checklist, you’ll ensure that nothing is overlooked.
So, where do you begin with planning the perfect soundtrack? I’m here to guide you through it, from choosing your ceremony music to keeping the dance floor packed. Plus, I've included plenty of tips and tricks from past weddings (and even some funny stories) to help you avoid common pitfalls!
Pre-Wedding Planning: Creating Your Wedding Music Checklist
First Things First: What’s Your Entertainment Budget?
Let’s be honest—many couples leave entertainment as the last thing to book. By the time they get to it, they’ve already blown their budget on photographers, videographers, and maybe even a drone photographer for those epic sunset shots! Then, when it’s time to book music, the one musician who can play your dream first dance song is out of budget.
To avoid this, start planning your entertainment early. This way, you can lock in a musician or DJ who fits your vibe and your budget. Need help staying organized? I’ve created a free Wedding Music Checklist that you can download here to track song choices and costs—making sure you’re prepared from day one.
Consider the Venue
Next, think about your venue. Does it allow live bands? I once played a wedding where we weren’t allowed to play outside, even though it was a beautiful, sunny day. The couple's guests naturally wanted to be outdoors, enjoying the weather, but that left me playing to an empty room! Learn from their mistake and check your venue’s music policies early.
Also, does your venue have a sound limiter? These devices restrict how loud music can get, which can affect live performances. If you’re booking a band, make sure they’re comfortable with the venue’s acoustic setup. Some venues with high ceilings and hard surfaces can make loud music sound echoey, while smaller venues are perfect for an acoustic set or solo performance. (Belasino Duo)
The Ceremony: Songs to Include in Your Wedding Music Checklist
Your wedding day’s soundtrack starts with the ceremony. Typically, you’ll choose:
One song for the bridal party entrance.
Two or three songs during the signing of the register.
One song for the recessional (your grand exit as newlyweds).
Some couples opt for a background playlist to play while guests are seated. If you have a long aisle, you might want separate songs for the bridal party and the bride. But if you’ve got a short aisle and only a few bridesmaids, you might only get 20 seconds of music before it’s time for the bride to walk!
Reception Music: Dinner and Cocktail Hour
By dinner, guests are usually ready to relax and chat, so keep the music mellow. You want songs that spark conversation—songs that make guests say, “Oh, I haven’t heard this in ages!” without distracting them from their meal.
For one wedding, I provided soft background music during dinner, and I overheard one table reminiscing about a wild family vacation while a particular song played. These little musical moments can create amazing memories!
If you’re looking for something a little more interactive, you can always hire a cabaret act or a singing waiter—but save that for after the main course when guests are ready to have fun.
First Dance and Custom Playlist Planning
Your first dance is one of the biggest moments of the evening. I personally love when couples choose acoustic versions of their first dance songs—it adds such an intimate feel to the moment. One of my favorite first dance moments was when a couple picked a stripped-back version of a punk rock song that meant a lot to them. It was totally unexpected, but it perfectly captured their vibe.
Whether you choose live music or a DJ, the goal here is to get your guests on the dance floor and keep them there! Use your wedding music checklist to ensure all your top tracks are covered.
Final Thoughts: Wrapping Up Your Wedding Music Checklist
Planning your wedding music is about more than just picking a few favorite songs. It’s about curating a day that’s filled with moments, emotions, and memories. From the first note of your ceremony to the last dance of the night, music is the thread that ties everything together. Don’t leave it to the last minute—start planning your music now to ensure every part of your day is as magical as you’ve always dreamed.
If you need help choosing the perfect wedding music checklist, I’m here to help! Download your own checklist or reach out for personalized music planning advice.
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