Music of the Prelude is played 30 to 45 minutes before the ceremony and helps
to set the mood for the wedding.  For example, if the wedding is in a church, then
the music of a quiet piano or acoustic guitar will allow guests an opportunity to pray,
reflect or engage in quiet conversation.  

WEDDING PROCESSIONALS
The wedding ceremony begins with the entrance of the bridal party. Normally, the
ushers lead the procession, followed by the bridesmaids, maid/matron of honor,
the ring bearer, and then the flower girl. The music selection should begin softly
with the volume increasing gradually until it's time for the bride's entrance.  Since
the bride's entrance is the most important part of the processional, there should
be a noticeable increase in volume when it's time for her to enter.  Incidentally,
some forward-thinking couples are having music composed for the marriage
ceremony.

Canon in D – Johann Pachelbel
Here Comes the Bride (Bridal Chorus) – Wagner
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring – Bach
Trumpet Voluntary – Jeremiah Clarke
Canon in F – The O’Neill Brothers
Ode to Joy – Beethoven
Hymne – Vangelis
Spring (from Four Seasons) – Antonio Vivaldi
Reminiscent Joy – The O’Neill Brothers
Edelweiss – Richard Rodgers
Ballade Pour Adeline – Richard Clayderman
Ashokan Farewell – Jay

WELCOME AND ADDRESS
The Welcome is delivered by the Officiant and includes personal details about the
couple.

READINGS
Very often, two readings are selected.  The wedding couple normally selects the
readers who are usually members of the wedding party, close friends or family
members. Readers should receive copies of their readings in advance.

VOCALIST & MUJSICAL INTERLUDE
This is an optional time for a vocalist or short musical interlude.

INTRODUCTION TO THE VOWS
The Officiant explains the significance and meaning of the wedding vows.

EXCHANGE OF VOWS
The couple read or speak their written vows or repeat the vows delivered by the
Officiant.

INTRODUCTION TO THE RINGS
The Officiant explains the importance and symbolism of the wedding rings.

EXCHANGE OF THE RINGS
The couple may speak their own words when exchanging rings, or repeat what
the Officiant says.

UNITY CANDLE, WINE CEREMONY
The couple may choose to light a unity candle or have some other ceremony
during a short musical interlude.

PRONOUNCEMENT
By the Officiant.

BLESSING AND CLOSING WORDS
By the Officiant

WEDDING RECESSIONALS
At the end of the ceremony, the bride and groom are announced as man and
wife and exit together followed by the individuals in the wedding party. Music
should be very upbeat and may include the following selections:

Wedding March – Felix Mendelssohn
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring – Bach
Canon in F – The O'Neill Brothers
Ode to Joy – Beethoven
Finale (from Water Music) – G.F. Handel
Rondeau – Mouret
Trumpet Tune – Henry Purcell 

POSTLUDE
Music for the Postlude should begin after the Recessional and is played until
all of the guests have been through the receiving line.

TIMES WHEN YOU MAY REQUIRE MUSIC