Wondering how to pick out your wedding postlude music?
In the previous article, I explained the purpose of postlude music and why you want it (or might not want it). This time, I’ll give you some tips for choosing it.
Things to consider when picking wedding postlude music
Because both the recessional and the postlude music have similar purposes (to joyfully accompany the exit of someone from the ceremony), just like the recessional the postlude music should be joyful and exuberant.
Some people will tell you it should be quiet (or “background” music). Music at a celebration should never be background music! It doesn’t need to be quiet.
But it is normal (but not required) that the postlude is “toned down” a little when compared to the recessional, especially if it will go on for a while as guests exit.
How much postlude music do you need?
If your guests were in a hurry to leave the church, you wouldn’t need much at all!
But since they’ll probably be ushered out a row at a time and you’ll probably have a receiving line to greet your guests, it will take longer for everyone to leave. Much longer.
I recommend between ten to fifteen minutes for a typical wedding. If you will have a very large ceremony, you could for more. Similarly, for smaller weddings, plan for between five and ten minutes.
There’s always some guesswork involved. It’s impossible to predict how quickly people will pass through the receiving line.
Don’t worry about trying to time it perfectly, it just isn’t necessary.
Choosing your music
Because both the recessional and the postlude are almost always of the same, joyful style, choosing your postlude music can be pretty straightforward. The same list of music you looked at for your recessional is a great starting point for your postlude music ideas.
In the next (and last) part of this article, I’ll give you some exciting postlude music ideas. Be sure to check back for more helpful tips and music ideas. Bookmark this site to help you remember or even better, subscribe to our RSS feed and get our articles in your favorite blog reader!
Let’s hear your thoughts
Do you have any other tips for choosing postlude music? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts! Your comments are always appreciated.
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