A wedding ceremony is a special moment that brings together two individuals in holy matrimony. It’s a time where couples promise to love and cherish each other forever, while surrounded by their friends and family. Wedding ceremonies are often followed by a reception, filled with joy, laughter, and celebration. However, before the reception comes the recessional. The recessional is a significant part of the wedding ceremony that signifies the end of the wedding. How long is a wedding recessional? This is a common question that newly engaged couples often ask. In this blog post, we will explore how long a wedding recessional should be.
What is the Recessional?
The wedding recessional marks the end of the wedding ceremony. It is the moment when the wedding party and the newlyweds exit the ceremony venue in a celebratory and joyous manner. Traditionally, a recessional song is played as the wedding party exits the venue. The wedding recessional signifies the end of the ceremony and the beginning of the reception.
How Long Should a Wedding Recessional Be?
The length of the wedding recessional can vary depending on the preferences of the wedding couple. However, the recessional should typically be between five to ten minutes long. This time frame provides adequate time for the wedding party and newlyweds to exit the ceremony venue and get ready for the reception.
Factors that Affect the Length of the Recessional
Several factors can affect how long the recessional should be. These factors include:
Size of the Wedding Party
The size of the wedding party can affect the length of the recessional. If you have a large wedding party, it will take more time for everyone to exit the venue. Conversely, if your wedding party is small, the recessional will be shorter.
Distance to the Reception Venue
The distance between the ceremony venue and the reception venue can also affect the length of the recessional. If the reception is in the same location as the ceremony, it will take less time to exit the venue. However, if the reception is in a different location, it may take more time to get there.
Number of Guests
The number of guests you have can also affect the length of the recessional. If you have a small number of guests, it will take less time to exit the venue. However, if you have a large number of guests, it may take more time for everyone to leave the venue.
Music Selection
The music selection for the recessional can also affect its length. If you choose a short song, the recessional will be shorter. Conversely, if you choose a longer song, the recessional will be longer.
Conclusion
The wedding recessional is a special moment that signifies the end of the wedding ceremony and the beginning of the reception. It should be between five to ten minutes long to provide enough time for the wedding party and newlyweds to exit the venue and prepare for the reception. Several factors can affect the length of the recessional, including the size of the wedding party, distance to the reception venue, number of guests, and music selection. As you plan your wedding, remember to consider these factors and choose a recessional that fits your preferences and style.
FAQ
What is the traditional wedding recessional?
The wedding recessional marks the end of the wedding ceremony and the beginning of the reception celebration. It is a processional that follows the exchange of rings and the first kiss by the newlyweds. Traditionally, the recessional proceeds in reverse order of the processional, with the married couple leading the way down the aisle.
After the officiant announces the newlyweds as “husband and wife,” the couple turns to face the guests and shares their first married kiss. Once the kiss is complete, the recessional music begins, and the wedding party exits the ceremony space.
The order of the recessional varies depending on the couple’s preference and the size of the wedding party. However, the traditional order starts with the married couple walking hand in hand. They are followed by the maid or matron of honor paired with the best man. Then, the remaining bridesmaids and groomsmen walk out in pairs, with the pairs alternating genders.
After the wedding party has exited, the parents of the couple and any grandparents are escorted out of the ceremony space. This order is often reversed for religious ceremonies, with the groom’s parents leaving first, followed by the bride’s parents.
The recessional is a joyful and celebratory moment that signifies the completion of the wedding ceremony and the beginning of a new chapter for the newlyweds. With the traditional order of the recessional, the married couple leads the way as they walk into their new life together.
Do you need 2 processional songs?
When planning your wedding ceremony, you may be wondering about how many processional songs you’ll need. The answer to this question depends on a few different factors, including the size of your wedding party and the length of your aisle.
Traditionally, it is common to have two separate processional songs. The first song can be played as your family members and wedding party walk down the aisle. This is a great way to honor and celebrate the people who are closest to you as they prepare to take their places at the altar.
The second song is often reserved for the bride’s grand entrance. This song tends to be more emotional and dramatic, and it helps to create a memorable moment that sets the tone for the rest of the ceremony.
Of course, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing your processional songs. Some couples opt for a single song that is played for everyone who is walking down the aisle. Others choose three or four songs to accommodate larger wedding parties or to create a specific atmosphere during the ceremony.
the number of processional songs you choose is up to you. However, it’s important to keep in mind the timing of your ceremony. If you have a short aisle and a small wedding party, you may only need one song. On the other hand, if you have a larger wedding party with a longer aisle, two or more songs may be appropriate.
Your processional music can be a beautiful and meaningful part of your wedding ceremony. Whether you choose one song or several, make sure that the music reflects the tone and style of your wedding day. With the right songs, you can create an unforgettable experience that you and your guests will cherish for years to come.
What is a wedding exit song called?
A wedding exit song is typically referred to as a wedding recessional song. It is the musical piece that is played as the newly married couple exits the ceremony space and walks down the aisle together, often followed by their wedding party and guests. This is usually the final song played during the wedding ceremony, and is a crucial part of setting the tone for the end of the celebration.
In contrast to the wedding processional song, which is played when the wedding party enters and takes their places, the wedding recessional song is played when the ceremony is complete, and the happy couple is ready to begin their new life together. As such, the song choice should reflect the joy and excitement of that moment, and create a celebratory mood for the newlyweds and their guests.
There are many popular choices for wedding exit songs, including classic love songs like “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” by Elvis Presley, or more modern options like “Marry You,” by Bruno Mars. Some couples choose to use instrumental versions of popular songs, while others choose classical music pieces or even jazz standards.
The choice of wedding recessional song is a personal one, and should reflect the unique style and personality of the newlyweds. It is a chance to leave the ceremony space on a high note, and set the tone for the rest of the wedding celebration.
