Photo: Laura Izumikawa Photography
While you might think this would ring true for the reception, music is an integral part of any wedding ceremony. The processional sets the tone for the whole traditional proceeding, while the recessional may as well set the tone for your entire marriage! If you're stuck on what songs to choose, consult our ceremony music etiquette guide: From who exactly picks what, to how to handle a contemporary choice in a religious venue, here's everything you need to know about your ceremony music.
Processional music is often chosen by the bride: As for the all-important processional, it's the bride's choice which music she enters the ceremony to. For the recessional, she and her future husband can decide together.
If you're getting married in a synagogue or church, there may be restrictions on what music you can choose: Be sure to check with your religious leader before finalizing song selections for your ceremony — certain hymns may already be in place for a traditional wedding ceremony, while, on the other hand, some songs may be deemed inappropriate for the occasion, especially if you're ceremony will be held in a church or synoguage. Also consult your minister or rabbi if you'd like the choir to sing, and, again, just double-check with what they're going to sing since they may be limited in what they're allowed to perform.
For a civil ceremony, choose whatever music or readings you'd like: Just because you're having a civil ceremony doesn't mean you can't have someone read your favorite passage from the bible, or sing your song to honor the occasion. Again, like any ceremony, just be sure to talk to your officiant before finalizing anything.