How to Choose Music for Your Beach Wedding Ceremony: Live, Playlist or DJ?

Music sets the tone for your entire wedding ceremony — especially when you're saying “I do” with waves in the background and loved ones watching. But when planning a beach wedding, many couples ask:

• Should we hire a live musician, a DJ, or just play a playlist?

• What songs do we need for the ceremony?

• Is live music even possible on the beach?

If you're planning a small wedding, elopement, or beach wedding for 25+ guests, this guide will walk you through the best options for music during each part of your ceremony — from guest arrival to the final kiss.

Option 1: Use a Pre-Recorded Playlist (Most Popular)

This is the most common choice for beach weddings, and it's included in all Wedding Day Packages.

Why it's great:

• No extra vendor fees

• No bulky equipment

• Easy to customize

• You can choose every song in advance

• Reliable — works even in windy conditions

Your ceremony coordinator will bring a Bluetooth speaker and manage music timing for:

• Guest arrival

• Bridal entrance

• Ceremony moments

• End of ceremony

If you're planning a small intimate wedding or elopement beach wedding, this is a simple, affordable, and stress-free option.

Option 2: Hire a Live Musician (Elegant & Romantic)

A violinist, guitarist, or harpist can elevate your ceremony with beautiful live music. It’s ideal for:

• Larger micro weddings (20–30 guests)

• Couples who want a classical or emotional vibe

• Those getting married at quieter beaches or private spots

💡 Tip: Ask about weather protection (umbrella/tent) and power sources — live musicians need coverage in case of sun or wind.

We’ve partnered with professional violinists for many of our all-inclusive beach wedding packages — ask us about adding this to your ceremony!

Option 3: Hire a Wedding DJ (Good for Ceremony + Reception)

A wedding DJ is best for:

• Larger weddings with reception afterward

• Couples who want more upbeat or curated transitions

• Beach weddings near hotels, parks, or pavilions with power access

For a ceremony only, DJs are less common unless the couple plans to extend the event with a cocktail hour or dinner nearby.

What Songs Do You Need for the Ceremony?

Even the shortest beach wedding ceremonies usually include these key music moments:

1. Guest Arrival (Pre-Ceremony Music — 10–15 mins)

Sets the mood as guests arrive, find their seats, and take in the view.
Ideal for weddings with 25+ guests.

Playlist suggestions:

• “Can’t Help Falling in Love” – Kina Grannis (acoustic)

• “Better Together” – Jack Johnson

• “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

• “A Thousand Years” – Piano Guys version

• “You Are the Reason” – Calum Scott (instrumental)

Keep the energy light, romantic, and calm.

2. Bridal Entrance (1 Song)

This is your moment. The entire ceremony pauses. All eyes are on you.

Popular bridal entrance songs for beach weddings:

• “Canon in D” – Pachelbel (classical, timeless)

• “Perfect” – Ed Sheeran (acoustic)

• “I Get to Love You” – Ruelle

• “Marry Me” – Train

• “Can’t Help Falling in Love” – Elvis or modern cover

You’ll choose one song — about 2 minutes long — and your coordinator will time it to match your walk.

3. Ceremony Background (During Vows or Unity Ritual)

Light music playing softly in the background adds emotion to the moment without distracting from your words.

Ideas for soft background instrumentals:

• “River Flows in You” – Yiruma

• “Turning Page” – Sleeping at Last (piano only)

• “All of Me” – John Legend (instrumental)

• “The Ludlows” – from Legends of the Fall

• “Kiss the Rain” – Yiruma

These work beautifully for unity ceremonies (sand, shell, love letter), vow exchanges, or quiet emotional moments.

4. End of Ceremony / Celebration Song (1 Upbeat Song)

As you kiss, raise your hands, and walk back down the aisle — play something fun and joyful!

Exit song ideas:

• “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” – Natalie Cole

• “Happy” – Pharrell Williams

• “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” – Stevie Wonder

• “You Make My Dreams” – Hall & Oates

• “Best Day of My Life” – American Authors

This marks the start of celebration!

Final Thoughts: What’s Right for Your Wedding?

Still wondering:

• “Should I use a playlist or hire live music for my beach wedding?”

• “Can I keep it simple but still make it emotional?”

Here’s the breakdown:

Ceremony Type - Best Music Option

Elopement for 2 - Pre-recorded playlist

Small wedding (under 25) - Playlist or live musician

25+ guests - Playlist + violinist option

Ceremony + reception - DJ + live music optional

Music, flowers, officiant, décor, setup — all included. No stress. Just love.