Going to the chapel: A music guide

Weddings are a significant affair.

The majority of women – and yes, the occasional guy, as well – let countless hours dwindle away daydreaming about the “big day.”

I am not so typical, and my future wedding is barely a blip on my 20-year-old radar.

However, I willfully admit that there is one tiny nuptial detail I cannot seem to obsess enough about: the playlist.

This might seem trite, but aside from that whole “getting married” deal, this is my biggest concern for my wedding day.

For all I care, it could rain or I could trip walking down the aisle (which is highly likely), but if the music isn’t perfect, then something’s really gone wrong.

So what’s wrong with making the day extra memorable with a finely tuned marriage mixtape?

Let’s start with a part of the day that often falls wayside to tradition: the ceremony. I cannot blame anyone for choosing to walk down the aisle to the organ-laced splendor of Wagner’s “Bridal Chorus,” but why not trade in Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” and mix it up after the vows and kisses have been exchanged and the recessional walk lies ahead?

Pick a song that’s both meaningful and celebratory – this is hands-down the happiest moment of the day. One of my favorite memories was seeing two friends take their first walk as James Taylor’s cover of Marvin Gaye’s “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” resounded through the room. It was both a happy release for everyone in the room and a vividly personal moment for the newlywed couple.

When the ceremony ends, the party begins. If you decide to opt for a reception live act, avoid the cheesy, 1980s Journey cover bands and do some research. Many wedding bands are more than willing to play songs of your choosing, granted you give them enough notice to learn them.

My suggestion? Keep it simple and keep it cheap. Find a tech-savvy friend or a local DJ who would be willing to spin your favorite songs throughout the night. This not only saves boatloads of money, but it also allows complete control of the night’s tunes.

Throw in some fun dance numbers (I can admit, I do love getting down to “Cha Cha Slide”), the requisite father-daughter dance song (a guaranteed tear-jerker) and some slower numbers for the old folk.

But don’t be afraid to throw a curveball into the mix. If you usually reign supreme over a circle pit, don’t leave out your favorite punk song just because it might scare the baby boomers in the crowd.

It’s your wedding – enjoy it!