Ceremony & traditions3 min read
Wedding ceremony order and processional, explained
The order of service, who walks down the aisle and when, the recessional, and variations for Jewish ceremonies, divorced parents and blended families.
Free tool · Reception, food & music: Wedding music planner
Pick a song for every moment of the day — prelude, processional, entrance, first dance, cake, last dance — plus the lists your DJ or band really needs.
Moments planned0 of 13
Check every lyric of your first-dance song, and tell your DJ or band the exact version and where to fade if it is long.
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Want it on paper or in a spreadsheet? Your wedding day, hour by hour is a free fillable pdf you can keep.
Get it free See all fiveHow to use it
- 01Add a song for each moment you want to plan.
- 02Write a short must-play list and a clear do-not-play list.
- 03Copy or print the plan for your DJ, band or musicians.
Good to know
How many songs do we need for the ceremony?
About 20–30 minutes of prelude, one song for the wedding party, one for the final entrance and an upbeat recessional.
How long should a must-play list be?
Ten to fifteen songs is plenty. Then let your DJ or band read the room.
Read with this tool
The thinking behind the numbers.
Reception, food & music3 min read
Wedding reception timeline: order of events for 4 and 5 hours
A minute-by-minute reception schedule, where toasts and dances fit, and versions for buffets and couples who don’t love dancing.
Reception, food & music2 min read
Wedding reception entertainment ideas beyond the dance floor
Ideas for guests who don’t dance, kids, introverts and long evenings — from lawn games to live artists.
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