Selecting the soundtrack for your wedding day is one of the most personal and meaningful parts of the planning process. Music sets the tone, shapes emotion, and creates memories that stay with you long after the celebration ends.

While the outline below reflects the traditional flow of ceremony and reception music, think of this as a starting point — a framework to help you begin exploring the songs and moments that feel most like you.

As you read through this section, begin thinking about which moments you’d like set to music, how you’d like to be introduced into the reception, and who will give important blessings, welcomes or toasts.

When you’re ready, click the link at the bottom of the page to complete your Music & Toasts Worksheet. This allows us to give your musicians clear direction—from ceremony cues to reception moments—so the musical flow of your day is smooth and well-timed.

MUSIC & TOASTS

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CEREMONY MUSIC SELECTION

  1. Prelude (guest seating)
  2. Processional Song 1 (Grandparents)
  3. Processional Song 2 (Parents)
  4. Processional Song 3 (Bridesmaids)
  5. Processional Song 4 (Bride)
  6. Recessional Song

Note:
Your processional music can absolutely be simplified. Many couples choose to use just one song for grandparents and parents, or even extend the prelude music rather than changing songs for each group. We’ll talk through what feels best for your ceremony’s style and flow.

RECEPTION MUSIC SELECTION

  1. Grand Entrance (Wedding Party)
  2. Grand Entrance (Bride + Groom) You’ll be able to note how you’d like to be introduced — formal, simple, fun, or custom.
  3. First Dance
  4. Father/Daughter Dance
  5. Mother/Son Dance
  6. Bouquet Toss
  7. Garter Toss
  8. Last Dance

Note: 
Your worksheet includes space for your top 10 must-plays, top 10 do-not-plays, and any special song requests. These notes give the band a clear sense of your musical style while still allowing them the freedom to read the room and keep the energy flowing naturally throughout the night.

TOASTS

  1. Introduction of Wedding Party
  2. Introduction of Bride & Groom
  3. Welcome
  4. Blessing
  5. Toasts

Note:
You’ll list each speaker’s name and their relationship to you in the worksheet. Some couples prefer to have most of their toasts given at the rehearsal dinner instead — completely up to you and what feels best for your families.

MUSIC SELECTIONS

frequently asked questions

Not at all. It's common Grandparents (and sometimes even Parents) be seated before processional begins. It's also common that one song be selected for both grandparents and parents and it simply continues until both sets are seated. It's 100% up to you and what you feel is best for your day. For any of the element you don't plan on incorporating (specific dances, garter toss, etc. simply enter an "N/A" in your worksheet.

01

Do I have to have a different song for every element listed above?

We love this trend and are seeing it more and more. Generally the welcome, blessing and 1-2 toasts are given and the rest take place at the Welcome Party or Rehearsal Dinner. 

03

Can we do our toasts at the Rehearsal Dinner?

We recommend that the host of the wedding be the one to welcome the guests. This could be the Father of the Bride, both parents of the bride, event the couple themselves. We encourage you to make the selection that feels best for you and your family.

02

Who does the Welcome?