Ceremony FAQs
Here is a typical ceremony that we see most often.
First - Seating of guests. We see about ten to fifteen minutes of seating music (sometimes more) and sets the mood for the upcoming ceremony. The music can be whatever you like from romantic love songs to music that is special to you. Granted...you may love Pantera and Black Label Society, but lets try and save those for later. A ceremony should be a little more "solemn" although that doesn't mean totally stuffy. Discuss it with your DJ or music performer. They'll have good suggestions.
Second - What do you want for your bridal party to walk down the isle to. Do you want the groomsman to escort the bridesmaids or do they walk in with the pastor and the groom?
We see about 50/50. Some with groom, some with bridesmaids. No real right or wrong.
Third - it's now Your Turn. Is there a special song for you and your groom? again...let's not get too carried away. You don't want grandma to fall out of her chair with metal. (unless you really want her to) Also, You will only be walking for 15 to 30 seconds, in most cases, and then you'll be ready to be handed off to the groom. If your song has a long intro, you won't get to the "meaning" of the song before you get up to the front. Something to think about.
Next - Is there going to be some special reading? Maybe a candlelighting ceremony. Maybe a sand ceremony. Wine exchange.
Maybe you have a special song or performer that will play something during this time. You really don't want dead silence here. Even if it something very soft in the background...it won't be awkward silence.
The Kiss - You have just sealed the ceremony with a kiss and the officiant has turned you to face your guests. He introduces the new Mr. & Mrs., now it's time to walk down the isle for the recessional. Again, this can be a special song for the two of you or a traditional recessional song. It will usually play all the way through as you and your attendends leave.
In a lot of cases, the DJ will play a couple more songs as your guests filter out into the reception area. (if he/she is in a close location to the reception) otherwise they may pack up right after the ceremony so they may head to the reception location to start the cocktail music and start setting the mood for the evening.
discuss everthing on your mind with your entertainer. All of the good ones have done this many times before and can be a great resource if you don't know what to do. They can help guide you.