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Picking Tunes for the Big Moments

Tips, Wedding & Party Advice

Music is one of most important parts of your wedding day. From the moment you wake up, until you hit the pillow for the first time as a married couple, the music you choose can have a huge impact on your wedding day. Below, we have put together a guide to picking out the right tunes for each moment of the day. No matter what your musical taste is, we at BVTLive! want to help make your big moments even better.

The Morning of: Playing the right tunes during the morning of your wedding can help set the mood and get you excited. While you’re getting your makeup done with your bridesmaids, choose songs that will bring you together and get you excited.

Our suggestions: “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper; “Love on Top” by Beyonce”; “Butterflies” by Michael Jackson

Processional: Some brides choose to walk down the aisle to the same song as their bridesmaids but we suggest choosing different songs. It’s your big moment – take advantage of it. Of course there’s the classic Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” but explore your options.

Our suggestions: If you’re not feeling the traditional vibe, you should go with whatever makes you and your husband-to-be happy. You could even opt to play an instrumental version of your favorite song. “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay and “In My Life” by The Beatles are good options, as well.

Recessional: It’s time to take your first steps back down the aisle as a married couple. Choose a song that’s upbeat and celebratory. The pressure is finally off and it’s time to go party!

Our suggestions: “All You Need is Love” by The Beatles; “Beautiful Day” by U2; “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” by Stevie Wonder

Cocktail Hour: If you choose to have a cocktail hour, it’s important that your playlist sets the mood. You want to keep your guests upbeat, but you don’t want them breaking out the dance moves quite yet.

Our suggestions: Generally, standards from the Great American Songbook including Cole Porter and George Gershwin songs are viable options for this moment of the day.

Reception Entrance: This is a really fun part of your wedding day. You want the song you pick to be full of energy and to stick out from the rest of the evening. If you’re wedding party is entering with you, talk to your bandleader as he may have a mix of songs that flow well together. Lots of people get creative with this moment because it can be very fun.

Our Bride & Groom intro suggestions: “I Feel Good (I Got You)” by James Brown; “Crazy in Love” by Beyonce; “Pump It” by Black Eyed Peas. Choose something that gets you pumped and excited for your reception! The right band will learn any song you choose as they understand that this sets the tone.

First Dance: Do not fall under the assumption that every couple has “a song.” If you and your future husband don’t have a song that’s especially symbolic or special, don’t sweat it. There are plenty of websites you can peruse to come to a decision, and of course talk to your band leader. Whether you choose to have a traditional first dance, or a unique first dance (as is growing more popular), do what makes you happy

Wedding Day First Dance

Our suggestions: If you’re feeling stuck, here are a few classics. “It Had to Be You” by Harry Connick Jr.; “At Last” by Etta James; “As” by Stevie Wonder; “One” by U2.

Father/Daughter Dance: Finding a song that both you and your dad agree on can be tricky. It can be something personal or something more traditional. It’s a special moment as your father gives you into the arms of another man who will take care of you for the rest of your life. Choose a song accordingly.

Our suggestions: “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra; “God Only Knows” by the Beach Boys; “Daughters” by John Mayer; “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womback

Mother/Son Dance: It’s a bittersweet moment as any mother watches her son become a husband. Picking a song that fits your relationship with your mother is the key.

Our suggestions: “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts; “A Song for Mama” by Boyz II Men; “Beautiful Boy” by John Lennon

Cake Cutting: Some choose to make their cake cutting simple and sweet, while others make it fun and playful. It’s the perfect time to take a break and show your personality as a couple.

Our suggestions: “This Will Be” by Natalie Cole; “How Sweet It Is” by James Taylor; “Cut the Cake” by Average White Band

Bouquet/Garter Toss: Another fun moment, take advantage of this opportunity to make the atmosphere upbeat and celebratory. Have all the single ladies or men line up and have a good laugh!

Wedding reception dance music

 

Our suggestions: “Ladies Night” by Kool and the Gang; “You Sexy Thing” by Hot Chocolate; “I’m So Excited” by The Pointer Sisters; “Single Ladies” by Beyonce; Mission Impossible Theme Song

The Final Dance: The night is finally over and you want to go out with a song that your guests will remember. Again, keeping the energy high will make your guests remember the evening and wrap things up nicely, but you can always go with a sentimental song too. A great idea is to have the band play the full version of the song you were introduced to.

Our other suggestions: “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey; “Time of Your Life” by Dirty Dancing Soundtrack; “Last Dance” by Donna Summer; “All Night Long” by Lionel Richie

Music plays a large role in all of our lives, but it can be especially important on the day of your wedding. We hope that we have helped you to start brainstorming for all of the big moments and maybe even pointed out things you hadn’t thought of yet. For more suggestions, visit our website or talk to one of our BVTLive! representatives!

Guided by his experience as the bandleader of Philadelphia’s top band, Jellyroll, and President of BVTLive!, Kurt Titchenell has kept dance floors packed and created unforgettable memories for thousands of events nationwide! Widely acclaimed as an entertainment expert, Kurt and BVTLive! have earned the most prestigious accolades in the industry. Most notably were two Jellyroll performances at The White House. Kurt's dedication to the success of every event is evident through his passion for creating the ultimate party experience. As President of BVTLive!, Kurt is committed to making your event a success.