Crafting the Perfect Wedding Soundtrack: Tips from a Professional Musician
When it comes to planning a wedding, the soundtrack can make or break the vibe.
Music isn't just filler - it's the emotional undercurrent that ties everything together. After performing at hundreds of weddings (and crying at most of them), here are my tips for curating a soundtrack that’s meaningful, memorable and oh-so-you.
1. Start with the big moments
Think of your ceremony first: the aisle walk, signing of the register, and the big exit. These three songs should feel personal and set the tone for the day. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box - I’ve sung everything from Fleetwood Mac to Flume. Whether it’s a tearjerker or a total surprise, this is the place to start crafting the emotional shape of your day. Bonus points if the songs have special significance to your story - a first concert, a favourite artist, or even a funny memory.
2. Match the mood to the moment
Cocktail hour is your time to shine with chilled, feel-good vibes. Dinner can be more romantic and laid-back, and when it's time to party - bring out the bangers! Transitions are everything, and I love using subtle song choices to build anticipation. A well-timed tempo change can shift the energy without people even realising it’s happening. The music should never feel jarring - just like a perfectly curated playlist guiding everyone through the experience.
3. Trust your musician (it’s me, hi)
Your live performer or DJ will read the room and know when to hold back or hype things up. Give us a few of your favourite artists or must-plays, and we’ll take care of the rest. I often create personalised set lists based on a couple’s story, tastes, and even their family and friends’ vibe. The goal is always to make the music feel effortless - like it was always meant to be there. When done right, music becomes an invisible thread that weaves through the day and leaves people smiling without even knowing why.
4. Think about your crowd
Got an all-ages dance floor – are your friends out there next to your grandparents? Let’s blend the classics with some sneaky 2000s throwbacks. Got a party crowd? We’ll hit the ground running with only the best bangers. Your guests should feel seen and included in the experience - and music is one of the best ways to make that happen. You want a vibe that keeps Nanna bopping and your cousins belting out the words to every song – I’m constantly scanning the dancefloor to make sure the next track I have queued is the perfect fit for the moment.
5. Don’t forget the quiet moments
Yes, the big moments matter - but so do the quiet ones. Vibey background music during dinner, gentle acoustic vibes while guests arrive - these are the bits that make your wedding feel warm and inviting. I like to think of music as the emotional glue holding the day together. Even the in-between moments deserve a little magic.
Your wedding soundtrack should be a celebration of you - your story, your vibe, and the love you’re sharing. That’s what I’m here for!
