5 Ways to Add More Live Music to Your Wedding
When I was planning my wedding, I wanted as many opportunities as possible to incorporate music and elements of our relationship. We held a Catholic wedding ceremony without mass and had a reception afterwards for our guests. Along with my experience planning my own wedding, I have over a decade of experience performing for weddings. Here are some of the things I have learned to incorporate more music into your wedding.
1 // Hold a candle lighting, sand pouring or rope tying ceremony during your ceremony
During any of these types of ceremony, a piece of music is a great addition! Often, we will perform for the prelude, processional and recessional and not at all during the ceremony itself. Your musicians will be present during your ceremony, so why not utilize them!
2 // Include a piece of music just for the groom and groomsmen.
Often, the processional music is played for parents, bridesmaids and the bride but not for the groom and groomsmen. This is an opportunity for the groom to select a piece that he loves. Some of the pieces we have performed for the groom and groomsmen entrance are: Star Wars Theme, Game of Thrones Theme, James Bond Theme and Greensleeves.
3 // Sing a hymn or other special song during the ceremony.
Maybe there is a hymn that you absolutely love or another song that is special to your relationship. Consider including it during the ceremony along with any readings you select.
4 // Hire your musicians to play for ceremony and cocktail hour
Hiring a DJ for the reception is usually the most budget friendly way to dance the night away! It makes a huge difference in the overall vibe of the wedding to have live music for even just a portion of your reception. Most groups will offer some type of discount for additional hours of service beyond the ceremony.
5 // Consider hiring a soloist or duo if you are on a tighter budget.
Even just the addition of a soloist for the ceremony can make a huge difference in the vibe of a wedding. Live music is almost always more impressive than a recording and hiring a soloist or duo is a great option that does not have to break your budget.