To quote the music icon, Madonna, “music makes the people come together.” Think back to the last wedding you attended. Did you have that “hold up, here take my drink” moment? When the DJ or band started playing music that caused you to pause, begin to bob your head and give your favorite libation to a person standing in the way between you and the dance floor. We have all been there and that is what every couple is hoping for when they are picking out their playset for their wedding reception.
There is a lot to think about when planning for that perfect song for each section of the wedding. Picking the right song can make the experience that much more meaningful. You want each song to enhance the experience and set the right tone for the day/night.
There are certain moments during the wedding that require some thought in music selection. To help you with the day, some are listed below just to get the inspiration juices flowing.
Pre-ceremony
You and your partner are separated and getting ready for the big day. While the focus is on updos, make-up, or getting the dresses on – this time needs music. Let’s set the tone for the day! There is enough stress, use this time to let loose and relax, pick an upbeat playlist to entertain the wedding party as they get ready for the big day as well. Think of your go-to getting ready playlist that makes you feel on top of the world. Don’t forget to have a dance party with your bridesmaids in the process.
Ceremony
Time for you to officially tie the knot! A song is needed for the procession while the wedding party enters. A different song is needed for the big moment when the bride is walking down the aisle. Any additional songs needed to support the ceremony and finally the exit song during the recessional. These songs can be traditional choices or sentimental songs to the couple. Consider having a trio or quartet from your wedding band play for your ceremony. Live music will make the ceremony feel more in the moment and exquisite. Some examples of top requested songs are Marry You by Bruno Mars, A Thousand Years by Christina Perri, and Perfect by Ed Sheeran.
Reception
If having a cocktail hour, a song list would be needed. Keep the same trio or quartet from the ceremony and switch the vibe from traditional and sentimental to more upbeat to get the crowd ready for the reception. At the conclusion of the cocktail, the wedding party is introduced this can be individual songs based on the wedding party or the same power song that generates excitement and sets the tone for the night. The next choice is dinner music, experts all report that soft, classical music is the best choice as it creates the best mood for eating.
Specialty Dances
Decisions, decisions – do not stop now. The first dance song needs to be chosen. Do you and your fiancé have a special song, perhaps with some history to it? Well, choose wisely as this is your moment as a betrothed couple. If you are going traditional, you might be including father/daughter dance and a mother/son dance. Obviously, whatever is chosen will result in tears shed like the photo above so be warned. My advice is you should choose something that resonates with you and your parent but is common enough to be played again so that experience will be remembered repeatedly whenever the chosen song is played for years to come. What other songs are needed? Well, cake cutting, garter/bouquet toss (if traditional), last dance, and couple’s exit all need special songs.
While the specialty dances take some time, most of the night will feature general dance music. We want everyone to have a great time- young and more mature, we want them all up and moving.
The right music can set the tone!
You want to put some thought into the playlist. It is important to consider the ages of the participants and choose a nice eclectic song list. You certainly cannot expect your 70-year-old grandmother to shake it to Meg Thee Stallion or your 15-year-old cousin to waltz, so know your audience. Start with big songs, songs with a great beat that is recognizable to most of the participants. Go with a great mix of songs, pick different genres and eras to keep the party moving and event memorable.
To get you started – take a look below at BVTLive!’s top 20 wedding songs in 2022:
- Levitating by Dua Lipa
- Can’t Stop The Feeling by Justin Timberlake
- 24k Magic by Bruno Mars
- Hey Ya! by Outkast
- We Found Love by Rihanna & Calvin Harris
- Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond
- Crazy In Love by Beyoncé (feat. Jay-Z)
- Dancing Queen by ABBA
- Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson & Bruno Mars
- Let’s Groove by Earth, Wind & Fire
- Give Me Everything by Pitbull (feat. Ne-Yo, AfroJack, & Nayer)
- Good as Hell by Lizzo
- Let’s Get It Started by Black Eyed Peas
- Please Don’t Go by Mike Posner
- Raise Your Glass by P!nk
- Fine China by Chris Brown
- It’s Tricky by Run -D.M.C
- Feels by Calvin Harris (feat. Pharrell Williams)
- Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton
- Suit and Tie by Justin Timberlake (feat. Jay-Z)
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the songs covered, who is going to play it? BVTLive! specializes in excellence in entertainment – with 11 bands, multiple DJs, and specialty acts we got you covered. Check out our Spotify BVTLive! to find our Wedding Day Playlist made just for you!
If you are interested in hiring one of the best Philadelphia wedding bands, you can contact us today. Here at BVTLive, we are home to over 11 live wedding bands. All of our bands range in pricing and experience to offer you options that fit every kind of bride and groom. We also offer great options for Philadelphia wedding DJs and specialty acts for your upcoming event.
BVTLive! will make your wedding day dreams come true!
Call us today: (610) 358-9010
Follow us on Instagram: @bvtlive
Visit our website: bvtlive.com
Blog Contributed by: Brooke Richie
Kurt Titchenell
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.