contemporary music outline

PRELUDE: Three or four songs which begin approximately
15 minutes prior to ceremony. Songs should be 3-4 minutes each.

MOTHER'S ENTRANCE: Choose a song that is long enough to allow both the mothers to enter, light the unity candle and then be escorted to their seats. 3-4 minutes should do.
*Occasionally the bride will choose to also have the grandmothers escorted during this song.

PROCESSIONAL: This song will be for the bride's and the groom's attendants to enter. Again, you will need to choose a piece that is long enough for all the attendants to be escorted to their places. Allow approximately 45 seconds of music per attendant. (EX.: 4 attendants and flowergirl - you will need a song 3 1/2 - 4 minutes in length.) Add an additional 45 seconds if the aisle cloth is to be rolled out now.

BRIDE'S ENTRANCE: Always wait until the music begins before you actually make your appearance in the door. Once you are in the door, pause and count to 4 before walking down the aisle. This allows all of the congregation to stand before you begin your processional.

UNITY CANDLE/LICENSE: You will need to choose a piece that is 3 to 4 minutes in length to allow enough time for you to accomplish both tasks. Some officiators may choose to have the "lighting of the unity candle" and the "signing of the license" at seperate times in the ceremony, so you may need to choose two songs.

ROSE PRESENTATION: The bride and groom may present roses to their mothers. Choose something appropriate to the occasion.

RECESSIONAL: Choose something upbeat and fun for you and your bridal party to exit to.

                       What type of musicians should I hire?
                       How do I locate musicians?
                       Is it appropriate to use pre-recorded music?