top of page

Nontraditional Wedding Elements That Pair Perfectly with Custom Music

Weddings today are deeply personal and creatively expressive, with couples embracing rituals that reflect their values, cultures, and love stories. From handfasting ceremonies to feather blessings and sand pouring rituals with children, these moments are more than symbolic: they’re opportunities to deepen the emotional experience for everyone present.


As a violinist who specializes in custom wedding music, I’ve had the honor of accompanying many of these unique elements with instrumental pieces that elevate the moment while honoring the couple’s individuality. If you're planning a ceremony that steps outside the traditional mold, here are a few beautiful ideas to consider, and how thoughtfully chosen music can bring them to life.


Feather Blessing or Energy Cleansing

One of the most memorable requests I’ve received included a shaman performing a feathering ritual over the couple—an ethereal, spiritual moment meant to clear energy and bless the union. For this, I recommended Spiegel im Spiegel by Arvo Pärt.

This piece is meditative, minimalist, and resonant—its delicate pacing gives space to breathe, reflect, and feel. It was a perfect match for the groom’s taste in “interesting” music—neo-classical, jazz-adjacent, and emotional, but definitely not your standard Mozart or Haydn.


Vows with Underscoring

Some couples choose to exchange vows with music playing softly beneath their words—like a film score lifting the emotion of a pivotal scene.


A few unforgettable underscoring moments I’ve played:

  • Braveheart Love Theme under vows: sweeping, romantic, cinematic. A choice that gives goosebumps, especially at the base of towering redwoods.

  • Somewhere Over the Rainbow during vows: nostalgic and gentle, this one always draws smiles and tears from guests alike.

  • Instrumental hymn arrangements when faith is important but couples want a soft, contemporary feel.



Have a ritual in mind?

not sure what song fits?




Ring Warming

In a ring warming ceremony, the couple’s wedding bands are passed from guest to guest, each offering a silent wish or blessing. It’s intimate and community-driven—and music sets the tone for reflection.


I often play simple, sacred-feeling melodies here:

  • Instrumental hymns like Come Thou Fount or Be Thou My Vision

  • Classical-style renditions of meaningful love songs

  • Soft improvisation around a theme the couple loves


Unity Rituals: Sand Pouring, Candle Lighting & More

Unity ceremonies are a beautiful way to symbolize the blending of lives. When children or family members are involved, the music can underscore the tenderness of the moment.


I often suggest You Are the Reason as a heartfelt instrumental during a sand ceremony—especially when a child or stepchild is included. The melody carries warmth and vulnerability, making it a lovely way to honor a new family coming together.


Other touching selections for these rituals include:

  • River Flows in You for a simple but emotional ambiance

  • Turning Page for a slow, intentional energy


Presentation to the Virgin Mary or Lasso Ceremony

In Catholic or Hispanic traditions, it's not uncommon to incorporate symbolic rituals like placing a flower bouquet before a statue of the Virgin Mary or participating in the lasso ceremony, where a decorative cord is draped around the couple as a symbol of unity.


These moments call for reverence and tradition:

  • Ave Maria (Schubert or Gounod) is a timeless, sacred piece that beautifully accompanies either ritual.

  • For the lasso, I often recommend playing a favorite hymn of the couple’s parents, especially since this part of the ceremony often involves them directly.


These selections bridge heritage and emotion, offering continuity between generations.


Final Thoughts

Music in these nontraditional elements isn’t just background—it becomes part of the ritual itself. The right piece can heighten sacredness, spark shared tears, or simply give space to feel. Your soundtrack should feel just as personal as the moment itself.


Hi, I'm Christie!

With nearly 30 years of experience mastering the violin, I specialize in crafting bespoke setlists and arrangements that reflect your unique vision and preferences. Recognized with awards like "The Best of the Bash" and The Knot Best of Weddings, I'm dedicated to creating unforgettable musical experiences tailored to your event.

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page