Dunstan Morey, Wedding Guitarist
Music for your ceremony, cocktail reception, dinner
A day like no other
The part I like best about playing music at people’s weddings is watching their faces when they’re saying their vows. I always have the feeling I’m seeing them at their very best. This is, after all, one of the most important and sacred events of their entire lives!
“My only regret is not having him play longer during the cocktail hour so I could actually listen to him and enjoy it! Thank you so much Dunstan- I would absolutely recommend you to anyone!” Tammy
Before the ceremony starts
Guests will probably start to arrive about half an hour before the ceremony is scheduled to start. It’s nice to have some music playing as they get seated in order to set the mood you want. Here are some songs I would play if you asked me to “please just play some wedding music you think is appropriate.”
The Processional
The entrance of the wedding party is usually announced by a specially-chosen piece of music — and here I think it’s important for the two of you to choose. Sure, some songs may be more popular than others, but there’s no rule saying what you have to choose. If there is a song the two of you really like, one that is really meaningful to you, then of course you should include that song in your ceremony.
One piece or two? Traditionally, there is a second special piece of music which announces the bride’s entrance. However, many modern couples want something completely different. For instance, you may want to enter together with your bride, groom or same-sex partner. It’s your wedding, so every part of it – including the music – should reflect what is unique about the two of you.
Still not sure? Get in touch and I’ll be happy to help you as best I can.
(image by Ron Wood )
Signing the Register
At most weddings (with the exception of Jewish weddings), the bride and groom will include the signing of official documents as part of the ceremony proper. This takes about 3 or 4 minutes – just enough time for your favourite love song! If you can’t think of one right away, here are a couple of suggestions to get you started:
The Recessional
( End of the Ceremony )
The formal part is over, time to transition to party time! I recommend a song that’s a little more upbeat. Here are a few suggestions:
“To future Dunstan Morey clients: If you are thinking of hiring any type of live music for your wedding and reception, you have come to the right place! Dunstan is a wonderfully talented musician; he has such a large repertoire, and really is interested in making your day memorable and special. Prior to the wedding, we found that he took the time to discuss and suggest ideas on the type of atmosphere we wanted to create. He really was genuinely interested in what we were looking for… Everyone came up to us and remarked how good the music was and how they enjoyed listening to Dunstan play. In fact, afterwards, when we see our wedding video, we are still completely amazed at how professional, and good the music was. We cannot say enough thanks to Dunstan for making our day even more special and memorable!”Chris and Jennifer
The Cocktail Hour
After the ceremony, you may want to have some more photos taken – and your guests will likely be thirsty! It often works out well to schedule an hour or so before the receiving line and/or dinner for the guests to mingle and chat and enjoy the day.
A little live music never hurt – the livelier the better!
Receiving Line / Dinner
There are many options for music after your ceremony. It all depends on how you’re planning the rest of the day. Maybe you’re planning a cocktail hour, with the guests moving inside afterwards to sit down for dinner. Maybe you’d like a receiving line, to greet every guest individually on the way in. Maybe you’d like quiet music through dinner, with dance music to end the night.
Or maybe your day will be like no other. However you plan it, there’s almost certainly a place for live music. Here are some musical suggestions for the rest of your day.
Recent Weddings: