I want to use contemporary music for my wedding ceremony, is that acceptable?

Question

I plan to have my bridesmaids walk down the aisle to "Waiting on an Angel" by Ben Harper, and then I want to walk down the aisle to "At Last" by Etta James. For the recessional, after we're pronounced husband and wife, I want to play "I Feel Good" by James Brown.

I'm so tired of the classical wedding music...it seems like people are just going through the motions and playing songs because that's the tradition. However, some people have said that playing contemporary music will make the guests feel uncomfortable.

What do you think? How would you react if you went to a wedding and heard the songs listed above instead of "Cannon in D" and "Here Comes the Bride"???

I've asked the groom for his thoughts on everything and he's not much for opinions unless it's something important like what kind of food and beer we're serving. :)

Answer 1

It's your wedding, so you can do whatever you like! If you and your soon to be husband are outgoing and "non-traditional" anyway, your guests probably won't be surprised. I went to a wedding last year where James Brown was played after the ceremony and it actually went off well...all of the guests laughed. The songs you are wanting to play are not distasteful by any means, so I think they would be fine. And I love "At Last"...my husband and I danced our "first dance" to that song! Enjoy the day and play what you want!

Answer 2

As long as it's OK with your officiant and the venue.

I know that some churches simply will NOT allow secular music to be played, no matter what. Other churches ask that it be "approved" music. If you're being married outside a church setting, it will probably be fine.

I recently officiated at a wedding where the processional music was "God Bless America" with all of the guests singing along, as they were asked to. The recessional was Meatloaf's "I Would Do Anything For Love".

Yes, there was a little tittering and some uncomfortable squirms during the discordant opening to the Meatloaf tune, but it reflected the desires of the couple and everyone took it in stride. No one is going to walk out because they don't like the musical selections you've made. They might comment on how "unusual" it was, but a sweet smile and a "Yes, we know, but it made *us* feel so good!" will silence them.

I imagine you'll get many more positive comments than negative ones, especially with James Brown. Who can resist smiling when they hear that?!!

Good Luck!

Answer 3

This decision should be made between you and your husband. If you are getting wed in a church service where this music might be considered objectionable, then that might be something to consider, but if your venue for your wedding has no objections, then I think you should go with what you feel is most appropriate for you and your husband. You also know your friends and family. Hopefully none of your friends or family are so ridgid as to spoil your important day with their traditions. Besides, many people are tired of hearing "Here Comes The Bride" and "Canon in D" (at least somebody could perform "Canon" in F for a change!)

Answer 4

I don't want the traditional stuff for my wedding either.
I want my bridesmaids walking to something upbeat like DJ Sammy's "Heaven" or BSB's " As Long As You Love Me" or Savage Garden's "Truly Madly Deeply"

The Mini Bride and Lil grooms boy can walk down to "So Beautiful" by Darren Hayes

I want to walk to Xerxes- Largo by Handel only because I love hearing a pipe organ play on that it's haunting.

You may kiss the bride " Kiss Me Softly" by Journey

Pronouncing us as husband and wife "Love Is" BSB

I always thought to myself that hey it's going to be my wedding. I want to have fun and I want my guests to have fun.

Your wedding songs sound perfect but maybe that's just me.. I've grown tired of going to weddings and listening to the same songs. That I noticed I started rating if weddings were good depending on what songs they played.

Answer 5

Heyyyy, it's your big day; you will only get married once (hopefully) so pick what you want! If the minister is really stuffy and objects then go elsewhere. Some older guests might prefer the more traditional music, but it's not their wedding and they should appreciate it's what you want that matters.

Answer 6

I think this is one of the most special celebrations of your lifetime. I wouldn't worry so much about what your guests will react to. If you and your fiance are happy with the choices, that is all that matters.

And, personally I don't think you have chosen anything bizarre or tasteless..I would think it was refreshing, particularly after all of the weddings I have attended, to have something different and just a bit unexpected! Best wishes to you both and enjoy your day.!!

Answer 7

It's your day but it is only one day, how will the familys react and will any dumb oaf on his side hold a grudge. Do you want to seam like the kind of wife who just does her own thing?

Get his insight on the situation too. Include your husband in the wedding.

Answer 8

By all means, it is your show. Your parade! Don't get tied down to the traditional. And you may even have your chosen music recorded in CD'S, WHICH you can give away as your wedding souvenir! May you have an unforgettable wedding!

Answer 9

You need to ask your CHURCH about their musical restrictions. Some only allow religious music, or do not allow music with lyrics!

I agree that Canon in D is so overdone it's cliche.

I would not use anything by James Brown. He went to jail for beating his wife. Not a good association.

Answer 10

Yes, it is very acceptable. Setting your wedding to music is a great idea especially to songs that have a special meaning to you and your husband.