Special Event Network / Finger Lakes Weddings & Events

Prelude
The Prelude is the thirty to forty-five minute period before the bride arrives for the ceremony. This time allows the guests to be seated and gives them a chance to relax and reflect. Many couples choose soothing, unobtrusive selections that set the tone for this time.

Traditional

Processional 1
The Processional begins when the Mother of the Bride is seated and for the formal entry of everyone in the wedding party except the bride (flower, girl, ring bearer, bridesmaids).

Processional 2
For the entry of the bride (may also include the flower girl and ring bearer). Note: for smaller wedding parties, you may choose to use the same music for both the bridesmaids and the bride.

More Modern

Processional - Seating of the Parents
Special music for the entry of the Bride's parents, after the main guests are seated, but before the processional begins. This is the last music played during the prelude section. If the parents are part of the formal processional, this would be the first piece of processional music.

Interlude
Music can maintain a joyous and solemn mood throughout the ceremony, reflecting the seriousness of the vows and ceremony, and excitement of the bride and groom as well as their family and friends.

If they are marrying in a house of worship or other spiritual center, the Bride and Groom should check with the officiant performing the ceremony to make sure that the music they wish performed is acceptable. Many officiants have a list of what music is acceptable for all parts of the ceremony.

Readings, Etc
Music background for a reading or other narration....the officiant or lay readers may recite a reading with an instrumental piece being played lightly in the background, or you may wish to have a solo.

Unity Candle Lighting
Background music or a solo during the lighting of the Unity Candle or other candle lighting.

Flower Presentation
Background music or solo as parents are presented with flowers, honoring the parents.

Recessional
After the Bride and Groom have kissed, are pronounced husband and wife, the wedding ceremony is over, and they begin their walk up the aisle as a married couple, followed by the wedding party.

This calls for lively and celebratory music (nothing slow or mellow) because couples usually get caught up in their excitement and sprint up the aisle together.

Postlude
The Postlude begins after the Recessional. The postlude should be fast and triumph. Music should be played until all guests have been greeted if you are forming a receiving line after your ceremony.

Suggested Music for Your Wedding Ceremony