Guide to Ceremony Music
Have your say! 
From preludes to recessionals… we’ve got the answers to your questions!
Remember that this is just a guide – be sure to check the details with your officiant (priest, registrar, etc) and your ceremony musicians if you’re having them!
Some religious officials may prefer you to have religious or classical music, at least until the recessional. Others may be fine with whatever you choose. Plus you’ll need to make sure that your musicians are familiar with the songs you’re hoping to use! They’ll also be able to advise you on what songs might work best for certain parts of the ceremony.
The Prelude
The prelude is the music that welcomes your guests when they arrive at the ceremony venue.
How much time to allow:
Generally 15 to 20 minutes – around 6 songs.
Kevin Morris Photography
The Processional
The processional is your “walking up the aisle” music! Some brides prefer to have one song for their wedding party, and one song especially for their big entrance. Others use the same song for both. It’s entirely up to you!
How much time to allow:
This all depends on the length of the aisle in your venue, and how fast or slow you walk. Don’t rush yourselves, though – this is your big entrance!
Suggestions for processional music
Robert Mullan Photography
The Interlude
Interlude music can be used at any time during the ceremony – from lighting the unity candles, to signing the registry. In religious services it will also include your hymns, and other songs during the Mass (lighting the unity candles, receiving communion, etc).
How much time to allow:
One to two songs per element – so for example, two songs for signing the registry, two for communion, etc.
Suggestions for interlude music
Robert Mullan Photography
The Recessional
You’ve kissed your husband, you’ve been pronounced husband and wife… cue the applause and recessional music as you make your happy exit!
How much time to allow:
One song is usually enough time for you to make your exit, followed by the bridal party, and your parents.
Suggestions for recessional music
Robert Mullan Photography
The Postlude
Just like the prelude music, the postlude is usually happy, upbeat music for the guests as they leave your ceremony venue.
How much time to allow:
Between 15 to 30 minutes, or 8 to 10 songs. If you’re planning to have a receiving line outside the venue, have a slightly longer postlude so your guests aren’t leaving the venue in silence.
Suggestions for postlude music
Kevin Morris Photography
