I’ve played so many weddings (hundreds?!) and there is definitely a sweet spot for the ceremony length.
Imagine that you are invited to a wedding and you spend time shopping for the perfect outfit, clear your schedule, get dressed with hair and makeup and all the wonderful things.. you arrive early, everyone looks beautiful.. and then the actual ceremony is super short!!
No one wants to be bored by a 3 hour long ceremony but you definitely want to give your guests and family a feeling that they are witnessing a deep and love filled unity of two people. This means a feeling of ceremony and ritual even if you are not religious.
For a small intimate wedding a good length is 20-30 minutes. This will give you time to walk down the aisle, exchange vows, perform a meaningful unity ceremony, exchange rings, KISS!… and then walk down to the aisle to everyone clapping and cheering and crying!
There are always opportunities for music when you add unity ceremonies since they don’t have any speaking. It’s a time for everyone to slow down, take in the moment, be present, enjoy your love.. and remember you two forever!
Cello by Triana – Minnesota Wedding Cellist, Cello Lessons, Minneapolis Wedding Ceremony Musician