Wedding Music: Creating a Playlist That Represents Your Love Story

November 18th, 2024

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Music is the heartbeat of any wedding celebration. It sets the mood, stirs emotions, and creates unforgettable moments. Whether you're walking down the aisle, sharing your first dance, or getting everyone onto the dance floor, the songs you choose are a reflection of your love story. For LGBTQ+ couples, crafting a wedding playlist is an opportunity to embrace inclusivity, celebrate diversity, and tell your unique story through music.

In this guide, we’ll help you create a playlist that feels personal, meaningful, and guaranteed to make your big day unforgettable.

 

Why Your Playlist Matters

Music has a way of capturing emotions words can’t. The right playlist can:

  • Set the tone for your ceremony and reception.
  • Reflect your personalities and the journey of your relationship.
  • Create lasting memories for you and your guests.

As an LGBTQ+ couple, you can also use your playlist to celebrate pride, inclusion, and love in all its forms.


Start with Your Love Story

The best wedding playlists are built around the couple. Think about the milestones of your relationship:

  1. The first time you met: Was there a song playing in the background or a track that reminds you of that moment?
  2. Your first date: What music defined that time in your lives?
  3. Special memories: Maybe there’s a song that played during a road trip, a concert you went to together, or a track you always sing together at karaoke.

Your playlist should feel like a soundtrack to your relationship, capturing everything from your quirks to your milestones.


Choosing Music for Key Wedding Moments

Here’s a breakdown of the different parts of your wedding and some tips for selecting music:

1. Pre-Ceremony

As guests arrive, set the mood with a mix of soft, inviting tunes. Acoustic covers, soulful ballads, or instrumental versions of pop songs work perfectly. For a personal touch, include LGBTQ+ artists like Sam Smith, Brandi Carlile, or Hayley Kiyoko.

2. Ceremony

  • Processional (walking down the aisle): This is your grand entrance! Choose something that feels timeless or deeply meaningful. Whether it’s a classic like “A Thousand Years” or a bold choice like Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way”, the song should feel uniquely you.
  • Signing the papers or vows exchange: Opt for something soft and emotional. Tracks like “The Story” by Brandi Carlile or “Stand by Me” can add a powerful touch.
  • Recessional (walking out as a married couple): Celebrate with something upbeat and joyful! Think “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake or “I’m Coming Out” by Diana Ross.

3. Reception

  • First dance: This is your moment to shine as a couple. Choose a song that holds meaning for you both. “At Last” by Etta James or “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran (duet with Beyoncé) are romantic classics, but don’t shy away from songs that speak to your identity, like “You Are the Reason” by Calum Scott featuring Leona Lewis.
  • Parent dances: For LGBTQ+ couples, this can be a great moment to celebrate your chosen family. Pick a song that resonates with the relationship you share.
  • Dance floor hits: Once the formalities are over, let the party begin! Include crowd-pleasers like “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston or “Rain on Me” by Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande to keep the energy high.

Celebrate Inclusivity Through Music

Your playlist is a chance to honor diversity and represent the LGBTQ+ community. Here’s how:

  • Feature LGBTQ+ artists: From Elton John to Janelle Monáe, celebrate the rich contributions of LGBTQ+ musicians.
  • Include Pride anthems: Songs like “True Colors” by Cyndi Lauper or “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge add a sense of celebration and unity.
  • Mix genres and cultures: Showcase the diversity in your love story by including music that represents your heritage or different genres you both love.

Tips for Crafting the Perfect Playlist

  1. Balance is key: Your playlist should have a mix of slow songs, upbeat tracks, and singalongs to keep everyone engaged.
  2. Work with your DJ or band: Share your must-plays and do-not-plays in advance.
  3. Test it out: Play your playlist during a casual evening at home or a car ride. Does it flow well? Does it make you smile?
  4. Ask for suggestions: Invite close friends and family to recommend songs that remind them of you as a couple.
  5. Stay true to yourselves: This is your day, so don’t feel pressured to include traditional wedding songs if they don’t resonate with you.

Capture the Moments with an LGBTQ+ Photographer

While the music plays a crucial role in setting the mood, capturing the moments that unfold is just as important. As an LGBTQ+ photographer, I understand the importance of documenting your wedding day in a way that feels authentic and inclusive. From the first dance to the spontaneous singalongs, I’ll ensure every emotion and memory is preserved beautifully.


In Conclusion

Your wedding playlist is more than just a list of songs—it’s a reflection of your love, your journey, and the celebration of your unique story as a couple. By carefully curating music that represents who you are and what you value, you’ll create a day that resonates not only with you but with everyone lucky enough to witness your love.

So, turn up the volume, embrace the joy, and let your love story take center stage. And when the music fades, know that the memories will live on—captured through the lens of a photographer who celebrates love in all its forms.

🎵 Ready to start planning your playlist? Let’s create something magical together!

 

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