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Musical traditions that will make your destination wedding sing
Your wedding playlist should do more than set the mood – it should tell your story. Planning a destination wedding in the tropics, particularly in Mexico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic or Jamaica gives you access to some of the world's most romantic and rhythmic musical traditions that'll have your guests dancing from "I do" to "happy honeymoon!" Even better – the expert team of consultants at Sunwing Weddings, and the fantastic wedding coordinators at your chosen resort, can help you seamlessly incorporate these traditions into your big day.
Mexico: Where mariachi meets matrimony
In Mexico, wedding music isn't background noise – it’s the main event with Mariachi conducting the entire celebration. As you exchange vows, violins and trumpets create a joyful symphony that will have every guest on their feet. The real magic happens with traditional serenata, romantic serenades that give the groom a chance to declare his love in a truly cinematic moment, usually performed the night before the wedding, creating an unforgettable prelude. During the reception, expect La Callejoneada, a vibrant musical parade that leads guests from ceremony to celebration, rich with tradition and infectious energy. Popular Mariachi songs include classics like "Hermoso Cariño" and the universally beloved "La Bamba" that get friends and family on their feet, regardless of their Spanish vocabulary.
Cuba: Salsa, son and pure soul
Cuban weddings pulse with rhythms that make staying seated physically impossible. The foundational genre of Son Cubano – which gave birth to salsa – creates an authentically Cuban atmosphere that's both sophisticated and irresistibly danceable. Live salsa bands deliver hits like "La Vida Es Un Carnaval" by Celia Cruz that transform even the shyest wallflowers into dance floor enthusiasts. The Rumba tradition adds a sensual storytelling element to the festivities, while the famous Conga line gets everyone moving in synchronized celebration. Cuban wedding music also offers beautiful versatility. For instance, gentle boleros work perfectly for intimate moments, while upbeat mambo and cha-cha-cha keep the energy soaring. In Cuba, the energy of a wedding reception often lasts until sunrise.
Dominican Republic: Merengue madness and bachata bliss
The Dominican Republic brings merengue – the country's official music and dance – to every wedding celebration , guaranteeing your reception is one tropical dance party. The distinctive sounds of the güira, tambora drums and accordion create an infectious energy that's impossible to resist. The reception's peak is often La Hora Loca (The Crazy Hour), a high-energy tradition that transforms the party with costumed performers, noisemakers and an hour of non-stop merengue. Bachata provides the perfect counterbalance with love songs that create space for tender dances between the boisterous merengue sets, giving couples those dreamy slow dance moments. For a uniquely personal touch, a Ceremonia Cantada features live vocalists performing the ceremony music, or you can get your guests involved and have them sing.
Jamaica: Reggae rhythms and steel drum serenades
Jamaican weddings bring laid-back vibes with serious musical impact. Steel drums create that instantly recognizable Caribbean sound that makes every moment feel like a tropical celebration with deep cultural roots that add authentic island flavour to your ceremony and reception . Reggae provides the ideal soundtrack for couples who want their wedding to reflect Jamaica's legendary musical heritage. From Bob Marley classics to contemporary dancehall beats, Jamaican wedding music is sure to keep the dance floor packed . When you incorporate these traditions into your big day, you aren’t just listening to the music, you’re honouring the culture that created it and giving your guests a peek at the island life.
Ready to strike the right note for your destination wedding? The expert team of consultants at Sunwing Weddings specialize in bringing these genuine musical traditions to life, connecting you with local musicians and cultural experts who understand how to weave these beautiful customs into your celebration.
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