Music Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Wedding

It can really make or break your day.

While there are plenty of minor mishaps that can happen during your wedding that can quickly become a fun memory, something going wrong with the music can wind up having a real adverse affect on both you and your guests’ enjoyment of the big day.

By Emily Lasnier

live-band-performs-at-reception-on-stage-with-mirrors-blush-pink-white-flower-decorations
Photo: Samuel Lippke Studios

While the message of your wedding day is meant to come across through your ceremony and vows, what Hans Christian Andersen once wrote is true: “Where words fail, music speaks.” The songs that play during your big day set that tone for both the sentiment of the nuptials and the celebration of the reception. While there are plenty of minor mishaps that can happen during your wedding that can quickly become a fun memory, something going wrong with the music can wind up having a real adverse affect on both you and your guests’ enjoyment of the big day. Read below to discover what potential mistakes you should avoid when it comes to music on your wedding day. 

music mistakes that can ruin your wedding, mistakes to avoid with your wedding music

Photo by Brandon Kidd Photography; Floral Design by Flowers by Cina

- Waiting until the start. Many guests are aware that the time listed on the invitation is when the ceremony is scheduled to begin, not when they should arrive. As such, plenty of attendees will be early. Whether live musicians or recordings, having music playing for at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the processional will help create a lovely atmosphere for your vow exchange. 

- Sticking to one genre. You might have a favorite style of music, but if you want to have everyone on the dance floor, it’s better to have a variety of tunes from different eras and genres. 

- Forgetting a “do not play” and “must play” list. If there’s a song you really can’t stand, or a favorite tune that your wedding won’t be complete without, it’s important to make sure your band or DJ is made aware. 

- Not shortening special dances. Even an average-length song can feel like it’s going on forever if you’re standing and watching two people sway back and forth. Unless the tune is under three minutes, ask your band or DJ if they can do an abbreviated arrangement for the first dance, as well as the father-daughter and mother-son dances, if applicable. 

For more ideas and inspiration, listen to an expertly crafted playlist for after-party music from Chicago-based band The Gold Coast All Stars, and get song ideas for before the ceremony, cocktail hour, and your reception dinner. 

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