if music be the food of love, play on

Tuning into Love: Choosing the Perfect Wedding Music for Your Big Day

When you think back to the best weddings you’ve attended, chances are you remember more than just the beautiful flowers or the delicious cake—you remember the celebrant and how they kicked off the wedding with the perfect ceremony… then you most properly remember a feeling. And nothing sets the mood quite like the music. Whether it’s a romantic string quartet welcoming guests, a soulful first dance, or a DJ keeping the dance floor alive all night long, music brings your wedding to life.

Let’s take a look at the magical role music plays throughout your wedding day—and how to find the perfect soundtrack for every moment.

There’s something truly timeless about live music at a wedding ceremony. A string quartet softly playing as guests arrive adds an elegant, cinematic touch. Think Pachelbel’s Canon in D as you walk down the aisle, or a modern twist like a string version of Ed Sheeran’s Perfect. String quartets aren’t just classical—they can surprise your guests with contemporary covers and personal favorites, making the moment uniquely yours.

During the photos and dinner, music should be more of a vibe than a performance. This is where a live jazz trio, an acoustic guitarist, or a curated playlist from your DJ can set a warm, relaxed tone. It’s all about creating a backdrop that invites conversation and connection while building anticipation for the party to come and if your thinking that this sounds beautiful but you don’t have the budget to hire the philhamonic orchestra then create a play list, butdont leave it to chance, think about how long each section of your wedding will be and create the perfect play list. Your venue will be able to help you with timings and play the right playlist at the right time.

Ah, the classic debate: live band or DJ?

A great band brings serious energy. There’s nothing quite like live vocals, a brass section, or a killer drum solo to get everyone moving. Bands often bring a vintage, soulful, or high-energy feel that’s perfect for couples who want a show-stopping performance. I mentioned a band, Solar flares a few weeks ago, they definitely brought the vibe, energy and atmosphere to the wedding, but don’t leave it to chance, do your research make sure they play the style of music you want. On the flip side, DJs offer versatility. Want ‘80s pop, Beyoncé, classic rock, and EDM all in one night? A talented DJ can seamlessly blend genres and keep the dance floor full with hit after hit. Plus, DJs typically take up less space and can be a more budget-friendly option, you also have the option of requesting songs you and your partner want. You can send out a song request in your invites so you know that your guests will be able to dance to their favourite tune. I have worked with Tom Wood he is excellent, he will play the tunes you want, he defiantly gets the party started

🎶 Pro Tip: Love both? Some couples hire a string quartet for the ceremony, a DJ for the reception, and even a live band for the after-party. It's your day—mix and match to fit your style.

The first dance is one of the most personal moments of the wedding, after the celebrant led ceremony, Whether it’s a slow sway to your favorite ballad or a choreographed surprise, your song says something about your relationship. Some couples go traditional (At Last by Etta James, anyone?), while others go for something unexpected that reflects their story.

Don’t worry if you’re not a dancer—your guests are there for the love, not the footwork. Just pick a song that makes you feel connected, and the magic will follow.

Music is deeply personal, and your wedding playlist should reflect you. Whether you dream of a romantic string quartet, an epic dance party with a DJ, or a live band that brings the house down, your choices help create the atmosphere you’ve imagined.

So take the time to listen to demos, read reviews, and imagine how each sound will feel on your big day. From walking down the aisle to the last dance, the right music turns moments into memories.

Happy planning—and happy dancing! 💃🕺