Having performed as a solo or ensemble harpist at weddings throughout Los Angeles and Orange Counties for over twenty years, I am often asked for advice from both my friends and clients who are getting married as to what kind of music they should use at their events. Generally, I tell them that the kind of music and musicians they use should refect everything else at the event. If the ceremony is formal with tuxedos and formal gowns, I encourage them to use classical musicfor their ceremony. Classical music helps to create a timeless, beautiful ambiance that matches the rest of the event. If a vocalist is used, it would also certainly be appropriate to use one or two popular tunes (two of my favorites: "Perhaps Love" and "The Gift of Love").
If your ceremony is less formal, still, classical music always works, but popular music can be a nice addition as well. Some couples love Celtic music, and the beauty of that music is certainly appropriate for a less formal event. I've done beach weddings with Hawaiian and folk music that were completely successful and lovely.
As for processional music and recessional music, the standard "Bridal Chorus" and "Wedding March" are always winners. They are timeless classics, and the reason they are classics is that they work, as do standards like the "Canon in D" by Pachelbel, and "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" by Bach. However, there are other options available...just ask your musician. He/she can offer other options. One thing I would recommend to avoid are silly or trite music. Recently, I was asked to play "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" for the recessional, because of the couple's love of baseball. Well, it went over like a lead balloon. No one in the audience seemed to understand what it was all about. It is certainly appropriate to play more light-hearted music at the reception, but stick with "formal" music to match your "formal" ceremony.
Let me know if you have any questions...thanks for reading my first post
Brian Noel
http://www.briannoel.com
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