by Carla Thomas
The vibes for the wedding are so important, and if you’re in the planning stage of one, then you know it goes deeper than just picking a song you like off the radio.
You may be into Beyonce and Nicki Minaj, but Grandma might not be. Whether you’re down to hire a band or a DJ, SIGNATURE BRIDE has put together a dope music guide to wedding music. It’s your Big Day and you deserve BIG tunes.
Processional: Processional tunes are the songs that go with the walk down the aisle. You’re going to have to pick a song for your bridesmaids to walk down the aisle to, and then a song for your entrance. Think Steve Wonder’s “Ribbon in the Sky” or “All of Me” by John Legend. Are you digging a song but not the lyrics? Use the instrumental version.
Recessional: Think the opposite of the processional. You’re exiting the ceremony and you need to do it BIG! You’ve gotten through the vows (the hard part) and you need something upbeat. This is where Nicki Minaj’s “Moment 4 Life” could come in. Or how about “Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars?
Cocktail Hour: It’s the in-between music. You’re setting the mood between the ceremony and the reception. The music should be jovial but low-key. You want people to talk and sip on a cocktail before cutting a rug during the reception.
Reception Entrance: This is the song to introduce the two of you to your guests at the reception, usually with the bridesmaids and groomsmen in tow. The song should be fun and upbeat and set the vibe for the reception.
The First Dance: You don’t have to struggle to find the perfect song because the song should be 100% personal to the two of you. It’s whatever “your song” is.
Father/Daughter Dance: Cue Beyonce’s “Daddy” for the traditional dance between you and your father. Couples also have a mother and son dance separately or they add it onto the end of the father and daughter dance. If your father or mother is not present, you have options. Ask a parent, sibling, relative or someone important to you to do the honor.
Reception Music: This where you want your guests to turn up. It’s the vibe of your reception. Some couples give the DJ or band total control, while others make a list of must-played songs. It’s also a good idea to make a Do Not Play list and let the DJ or band know if you want censored music.
Cake-cutting: Some choose to make their cake-cutting a ceremonial event. If you do, pick an upbeat song. You want this song to be cute and sweet and maybe, sexy.
Bouquet Toss: Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” is still perfect for commanding all the single ladies to the floor. This song should be upbeat and fun. The garter toss, if you choose to have one, should also be a fun and romantic song.
SIGNATURE BRIDE’S WEDDING PLAYLIST
“Adorn” by Miguel “I’m Blessed” by Charlie Wilson “When I See U” by Fantasia “Chocolate High” by India.Arie featuring Musiq Soulchild “That Magic” by India.Arie “There Goes My Baby” by Charlie Wilson “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder “Reasons” by Earth, Wind & Fire
“Low” by Flo Rida “No One” by Alicia Keys “Joy” by Blackstreet “Lovin’ You” by Minnie Riperton “Pretty Wings” by Maxwell “Good Man” by Ne-Yo “As” by Stevie Wonder “So High” by John Legend “When a Man Loves a Woman” by Percy Sledge “Stairway to Heaven” by The O’Jays “Back at One” by Brian McKnight “You’re My Latest, Greatest Inspiration” by Teddy Pendergrass “Share My World” by Dru-Hill “They Don’t Know” by Jon B “There Goes My Baby” by Usher “With You” by Monica “By Your Side” by Sade “Moment 4 Life” Nicki Minaj featuring Drake “Single Ladies” by Beyonce “Forever My Lady” by Jodeci
