When couples ask “When should we have you play on the day?” the truth is, there’s no wrong time. Every part of a wedding has its own vibe and I love being able to match the energy, whether that’s a beautiful moment walking down the aisle or a full blown party set later on.

Here’s a breakdown of the different parts of a wedding day where live sax can really shine and why I love playing for each one:

Ceremony — Setting the Scene

The ceremony is always a real highlight for me. It’s such an emotional, meaningful moment and being able to help shape the atmosphere with music which means a lot to you, is always a joy. Whether you’re walking in to something classical or a song that means the world to you both, it sets the tone for the day.

Perfect songs for ceremony:

  • Can’t Help Falling In Love – Elvis Presley
  • A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
  • Lover – Taylor Swift
  • Somewhere Over The Rainbow – Judy Garland
  • At Last – Etta James
Alex performing the saxophone at a venue

Drinks Reception – Relaxed, feel-good vibes

Once the nerves settle and the champagne flows, it’s time for something more upbeat. The drinks reception is where the vibe really starts to build. I’ll usually set up outside or near wherever people are mingling and create a laid back, happy atmosphere.

Go-to drinks reception tunes:

  • Isn’t She Lovely – Stevie Wonder
  • Lovely Day – Bill Withers
  • Just The Two Of Us – Groover Washington, Jr., Bill Withers
  • Love Story – Taylor Swift
  • Master Blaster – Stevie Wonder

Wedding Breakfast – Classy and Understated

During dinner, it’s all about the atmosphere. I keep things soft and elegant, just enough to lift the room without taking away from conversations or speeches.

Perfect sax covers for dinner:

  • If I Ain’t Got You – Alicia Keys
  • Let’s Stay Together – Al Green
  • Your Song – Elton John
  • Dreams – Fleetwood Mac

Cocktail Hour — That Golden Hour Glow

Cocktail hour is often a quieter moment between the meal and the party, when guests are topping up their drinks, the sun’s going down and everyone’s gearing up for the evening. I love playing here to slowly lift the tempo and get people in the mood to dance.

Cocktail hour favourites:

  • September – Earth, Wind & Fire
  • Get Lucky – Daft Punk ft. Pharrell
  • Ain’t Nobody – Chaka Khan
  • Love Really Hurts Without You – Billy Ocean
Getting the party started playing the saxophone with the bride, groom and guests dancing around.

Evening Party — Sax & DJ, Time to Turn It Up

This is where we let loose. My live sets with the DJ are high energy, interactive and totally unforgettable. Think big singalong choruses, dance floor fillers and sax solos that get everyone jumping.

Crowd favourites for wedding party sax:

  • Pink Pony Club – Chappell Roan
  • Don’t Stop Me Now – Queen
  • Believe – Cher
  • Freed From Desire – Gala
  • I Wanna Dance With Somebody – Whitney Houston
Alex Rimell Sax playing Sax at a wedding.

So… When’s the Best Time to Book Me?

It’s completely up to you. Some couples want live sax sprinkled throughout the day to keep the energy flowing, while others want that one big evening moment.

Whatever you choose, I’ll work with you to create a set that feels personal, exciting and totally unforgettable.

Whether it’s romantic ballads under the trees or belting out sax solos on the dance floor, I’m there for it all.

Thinking of booking live sax for your wedding day? Let’s have a chat about what kind of vibe you’re going for and how I can help bring the music to life

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