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When planning your wedding ceremony music, one of the most common questions couples ask me is:
"How many songs do you need for the wedding processional?"
"How many songs do you need for the wedding processional?"
It’s one of the most emotional moments of the day — the music starts, guests turn around, and it’s all eyes on you. Getting this part right matters, and it’s easy to overthink how many songs are needed.
As a wedding singer and guitarist based in Hertfordshire, here’s my honest advice — drawn from experience of performing at ceremonies across the UK — on how many songs to choose, and how to keep it simple, meaningful, and stress-free.
Pre-Ceremony Music – 4-6 Songs
Pre-Ceremony Music – 4-6 Songs
Live music before the ceremony is a great way to create atmosphere as guests arrive and settle in. But less is more here — you want it to feel like a prelude, not the main act.
How long should the pre-ceremony set be?
➡️ 15–20 minutes — long enough to fill the space, short enough to keep it special.
How many songs?
➡️ Roughly 4–6 acoustic songs.
Most couples don’t choose these songs themselves — and that’s perfectly normal. I’ll read the room and perform relaxed, romantic songs that set the right mood. If there’s a track you’d love included, just let me know — otherwise, you can leave it to me.
The Processional – One Song
The Processional – One Song
How many songs do you need for the wedding processional?
➡️ Just one.
There’s a temptation to choose one song for the bridal party and another for the bride — or to try and blend two together. Personally? Even as a mashup specialist, I don’t recommend mashups at this moment. They can break the flow and dilute the emotional build-up.
One song, timed and performed beautifully, creates the most powerful moment. Whether I’m performing live or looping it in real time, I’ll follow the pace of your walk and match the energy, naturally building to the moment that means the most.
Signing the Register – Two-Three Songs
Signing the Register – Two-Three Songs
This quiet part of the ceremony gives you time to breathe, take a few photos, and let the moment land.
How many songs for signing the register?
➡️ 2 songs, with a 3rd in reserve.
Most registrars are done within two songs, but if your photographer is snapping away or things run over slightly, I’ve always got a third ready to go. It’s seamless, and you don’t need to worry about it on the day.
Recessional – 1 Song
Recessional – 1 Song
Time to celebrate! The energy lifts and you walk out together as newlyweds.
How many songs?
➡️ 1 upbeat, joyful track
Top tip: Decide which part of the song you want to walk out to — whether it’s the intro, chorus, or instrumental drop. I’ll make sure it starts at just the right point so the vibe is exactly what you’re after.
Ceremony Music Breakdown
Ceremony Music Breakdown
Pre-Ceremony (Guest Arrival): 4–6 songs
Processional (Entry): 1 song
Signing the Register: 2-3 songs
Recessional (Exit): 1 song
Total Prepared: 8–11 songs
Whether you’re hiring a wedding ceremony guitarist, pianist, or string quartet, the structure stays the same — the difference is in the delivery. With live music, it’s all about flow, energy, and timing.
Final Tips:
Final Tips:
- Keep it simple: One song per moment is more than enough when played live and with feeling.
- No mashups at the aisle: Let the moment breathe.
- Pre-ceremony music? Leave it to your musician — you’ve got enough to think about.
- Start strong and end big: The entry and exit songs are your two biggest choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many songs do you need for a wedding ceremony?
A: Most ceremonies need 4–6 key songs: one for the entrance, two for the signing, one for the exit, and a few for guest arrival.
Q: What songs are needed for a wedding ceremony?
A: Entry, register signing, and exit. Anything else is a bonus — keep it meaningful.
Q: Can a solo guitarist cover a full wedding ceremony?
A: Absolutely. As a live wedding ceremony musician, I cover all parts of the day with a full, professional setup — including pre-ceremony and aisle music.
Q: What do wedding ceremony musicians cost?
A: It varies depending on coverage, experience, and extras. My wedding singer packages start from £450 and include all equipment, insurance, and planning support.
Let's Plan The Music for Your Ceremony
I’m Tom Wackett — a wedding singer and guitarist based in Hertfordshire, performing across Herts, Bucks, Essex, and beyond. If you’re planning your ceremony and wondering what music you need, I’d love to help.
👉 Check my availability or view my wedding music packages to get started.
As a member of the Musicians’ Union, I’m fully covered with public liability insurance up to £10 million. All of my professional-grade sound equipment is PAT tested to ensure everything sounds great and runs smoothly.
Artist Approved on Entertainment Nation (as ‘Tom James’) – trusted for weddings and events across the UK.
Proud to be a Verified Encore Artist – professionally reviewed and trusted for delivering high-quality live music.
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