Imagine your favorite romantic movie. Now, think of that movie without music. It's not quite as heart soaring and tear jerking, is it? A film's musical accompaniment can make or break its success with moviegoers. Similarly, the music you choose for your wedding ceremony and reception sets the mood for the entire event.   

Music played at a wedding should reflect the couple's personality. The Bride and Groom can work together by going through their CDs and selecting romantic, fun, or personal favorites for the wedding. During the months before the big day, jot down the names of songs suitable for the ceremony or reception as you hear them. Think of your wedding as a movie and create your own soundtrack. 

The right music must be played at the right time. This creates emotion that will make the wedding memorable for your guests. Everyone has been to weddings that played the same tired songs over and over. Although many couples feel that they must stick with the traditional reception songs, such as "YMCA" or "Brickhouse," wedding guests might prefer hearing something different. Shake things up by giving your bandleader or DJ a list of songs you'd like to hear, and your guests will surely enjoy the personal touch. 

Live Band or DJ?

Hiring a professional DJ or band is vital to ensure your playlist is in capable hands. During the interview process, be sure to select the person with whom you have the same musical vision. If you choose a live band, experience the songs in their repertoire at a lives showcase. If you have a particular, more current song you want to hear, give the band plenty of notice in order to learn the song. 

A DJ is great for keeping the pace of the reception and making sure all necessary events are announced, such as the cake cutting and bouquet toss. If your guests are shy on the dance floor, a DJ will assist by playing music no one can resist. Want a fresh twist on an old favorite? Ask your DJ if he can remix the oldies with some upbeat tunes and surprise guests with the new version. If the Bride and Groom have specific songs in mind, they should burn a CD for the DJ to play at requested times. Because CD burning has never been less expensive or easier, many couples are now giving personalized wedding CDs as gifts to their guests.   

Don't forget to ask the right questions when hiring a DJ or live band. Make sure that the reception area is large enough for the audio equipment or a live band. There must be adequate power for all instruments and convenient outdoor access for set-up. Set all pricing and hours according to the time restrictions of the reception facility. Finally, make arrangements in writing, agreeing to your requirements.

Choosing Your Music

Couples are becoming more adventurous these days with their choices in wedding music.  The "tried and true" songs at many weddings and receptions have been replaced by Top-Forty hits and rock ballads. If you hire a DJ, encourage him to play current popular music, and have him avoid the "Hokey Pokey" and "Chicken Dance." 

Everyone's musical tastes are different. However, we have put together a compilation of current alternatives to the traditional wedding music and a few oldies worth mentioning. As such, this guide should be used just to get you started on your path to beautiful music. 

Planning a wedding is stressful and requires a lot of responsibility. Although, some brides would rather leave the musical details to a DJ or bandleader, you can still insist on adding your personal touch. Selecting the music is one area where you and your Groom can kick back and have a little fun. Have the DJ or band replace the tired traditional selections with your fresh new hits. This will certainly make your wedding memorable for the guests and provide the perfect backdrop to your most special day. 

Ceremony Music

"Come Away With Me" by Norah Jones.

Soft and sweet, it's perfect with or without vocals. Use during processional or lighting the unity candle. 

"It's Your Love" by T. McGraw and F. Hill.

Sweeping, powerful lyrics. Personalize your wedding with live vocalists performing this duet. 

"Only Time" by Enya.

Basically, anything by Enya is terrific for background music during guest seating or the processional. 

"Songbird" by Fleetwood Mac.

Simple and soothing, this melody suits a natural or outdoor wedding. 

First Dance

"Have A Little Faith In Me" by Jewel.

This song has been covered by just about everyone. Jewel's version is slow and romantic; grab your Kleenex! 

"I Got You Babe" by Sonny and Cher.

Entertain your guests with this seventies hit! The most fun-loving couples could lip sync this song to one another instead of the traditional slow dance. 

"She Will Be Loved" by Maroon 5.

Newcomers to the music scene, Maroon 5 has made a name for themselves with both teenagers and adults. The song is best described as melodic pop, but it brings energy to the couple's first dance that is rarely seen. 

"Take My Breath Away" by Jessica Simpson.

Mysterious and sexy, the cover of eighties ballad by Berlin, achieves new life through Simpson's remarkable range. 

"By My Side" by Ben Harper.

Rock and reggae aficionado Ben Harper slows things down with this soft and sincere proclamation of love. 

"When You Say Nothing At All" by Allison Krauss.

Marvelous acappella performance by Krauss. This song will quiet the room and have all eyes on the happy couple. 

"I Melt" by Rascal Flatts.

Perfect for the couple that's a "little bit country". There are so many country-western love songs; this new hit is romantic and great for the two-step. 

Mother/Groom Dance

"I Hope You Dance" by Lee Ann Womack.

Filled with lyrics of good wishes, this is an unusual choice that will replace the traditional "Wind Beneath My Wings" or "What A Wonderful World." 

"Blessed" by Elton John

Possesses a light-rock style for the groom who doesn't want to get too sappy. 

"Blue Clear Sky" by George Strait.

Great for showing off your country-dance moves, this upbeat love song will also get everyone singing along.  

"Say A Little Prayer" by Diana King.

This rendering of the Dionne Warwick classic was created for the movie, "My Best Friend's Wedding." Disco-lovin' mothers and sons can entertain the guests with a unique wedding experience. 

"Forever Young" by Rod Stewart.

An oldie but goodie, this song offers great advice from parent to child. It will bring a tear to guests' eyes. 

Father/Daughter Dance

"Beautiful" by Christina Aguilera.

A wonderful sentiment for women of all ages. Fathers will appreciate the independent spirit this song seeks to provoke.  

"Kind and Generous" by Natalie Merchant.

Upbeat, but slow enough for dancing, this song is perfect for showing gratitude to your father for all he has given you over the years.  

"Hero" by Mariah Carey.

This tune expresses overwhelming love and support from daughter to father. It's certainly expected to be a tearjerker for everyone in the room. 

"I'll Be There" by the Jackson 5.

Father and daughter can both relate to this always-popular Motown hit. 

"Unforgettable" by Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole.

In an astonishing remake of the classic song by Nat King Cole, technology allows for his daughter, Natalie Cole, to perform a duet with him years after his death. This adaptation is a surprising alternative to the original. 

Whatever music you choose, make sure it’s a reflection of your and your groom’s personality.