
The wedding recessional song is the first song a couple hears as they walk back up the aisle together as newlyweds. It's a joyous moment, full of love and excitement, and the music chosen sets the tone for the party to come. Couples often opt for classical pieces, traditional cultural music, or a current hit. So, what are the most common wedding recessional songs?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Genre | Classical, Pop, Indie, R&B, Gospel, A capella, Organ music, Punk rock, Swing and jive music, Piano covers |
| Mood | Fun, Sentimental, Joyous, Romantic, Upbeat, Dramatic |
| Tempo | Fast beat, Slow tempo |
| Lyrics | Recognizable, Hopeful, Funny |
| Examples | "Wedding March" by Felix Mendelssohn, "Spring", "Ode to Joy" by Beethoven, "Hornpipe" by Handel, "Eine Kleine Nacht Musik" by Mozart, "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey, "Love on Top" by Beyoncé, "Beautiful Day" by U2, "Better Together" by Jack Johnson, "At Last" by Etta James |
Explore related products

Classical vs. modern
The wedding recessional song is the first thing a couple hears as they exit the ceremony as newlyweds, so it's important to choose something that suits their tastes and sets the right tone. Couples may opt for a classical piece or a modern hit, depending on their preferences.
Classical wedding recessional songs are timeless and elegant, often featuring intricate melodies, poetic lyrics, and soul-stirring harmonies. One of the most popular classical choices is "Wedding March" by Felix Mendelssohn, which is commonly used in movies and TV shows during wedding scenes. Other classical options include "Spring" from Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream", Beethoven's "Ode to Joy", and Handel's "Hornpipe". Classical songs are ideal for couples who want to stick to tradition and choose a song that's a crowd-pleaser.
On the other hand, modern wedding recessional songs can add a fun and personal touch to the celebration. Couples can choose from a variety of genres, including pop, rock, indie, R&B, and more. Some popular modern recessional songs include "Love on Top" by Beyoncé, "Beautiful Day" by U2, "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" by Stevie Wonder, and "Better Together" by Jack Johnson. Modern songs are perfect for couples who want to showcase their personality and unique style.
Ultimately, there are no steadfast rules when it comes to choosing a wedding recessional song. Couples should select a song that resonates with them and reflects their journey as a couple. Whether it's a classical masterpiece or a contemporary hit, the chosen song should be thoughtful, romantic, and set the desired mood for the joyous occasion.
Choosing the Perfect Wedding Song: A Guide for Couples
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Popular choices
The wedding recessional song is an important choice as it is the first song the newly married couple will hear as they walk back up the aisle and it sets the tone for the party to follow. Couples often opt for classical pieces, traditional cultural music, or a current hit.
Some popular choices for a classical recessional include "Wedding March" by Felix Mendelssohn, "Spring" by Mendelssohn, "Ode to Joy" by Beethoven, "Hornpipe" by Handel, "Eine Kleine Nacht Musik" by Mozart, and "Canon in D" by Pachelbel. These classical pieces are timeless and elegant choices that will add a sense of grandeur to your exit.
For couples who want to add a fun and personal touch to their exit, modern hits like "Love on Top" by Beyoncé, "Beautiful Day" by U2, "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" by Stevie Wonder, and "Better Together" by Jack Johnson are popular choices. These songs are perfect for outdoor weddings, with their upbeat and playful vibes.
If you're looking for something in between classic and contemporary, you might consider "At Last" by Etta James, "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey, or "Wake Up" by Arcade Fire. These songs offer a blend of rock 'n' roll, soulfulness, and drama that can provide a unique and memorable backdrop to your recessional.
Ultimately, the choice of recessional song is a personal one and should be a thoughtful and romantic reflection of the couple's tastes and the mood they wish to set for their exit and the celebration to follow.
Panama Wedding: Where Did They Go?
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Indie love songs
The wedding recessional song is a very important choice, as it is the first song you will hear as a married couple and it sets the tone for the party that's about to begin. Indie music is a great choice for a wedding recessional, with its pure joy and atmospheric qualities. The genre has plenty of love songs to choose from, and some are perfect for walking down the aisle to.
If you want to unite your guests on the dance floor, belting out lyrics together, then look no further than some classic indie anthems. From Oasis to Kasabian, The Strokes to Vampire Weekend, there are plenty of options to get your guests moving.
For a more romantic recessional, there are sweet hits from artists like Bon Iver, Arctic Monkeys, and Maggie Rogers. Their songs are perfect for creating a memorable and unique atmosphere, with standout lyrics that emulate your love. Ed Sheeran is another artist with many popular love songs that are ideal for weddings.
If you're looking for something a little more upbeat, "Better Together" by Jack Johnson is a great choice. "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" by Stevie Wonder is another fun and playful option.
For a unique and memorable recessional, you could also consider a dramatic movie-ending closer, like "Wake Up" by Arcade Fire, or a fun throwback like "Hey Ya" by Outkast or "I Gotta Feeling" by The Black Eyed Peas.
Harry and Meghan's Wedding: Channel Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Classical pieces
Classical music is a popular choice for wedding recessional songs, with many couples opting for traditional and timeless pieces. One of the most well-known classical recessional songs is the "'Wedding March' by Felix Mendelssohn, commonly featured in movies and TV shows during wedding scenes. Another popular choice is "Spring", known for its upbeat melody and dramatic crescendos.
For couples who want a fun and lighthearted recessional, Handel's "Hornpipe" is an excellent option. Originally written by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1787, "Eine Kleine Nacht Musik" ("A Little Night Music") is a bright and exciting piece that adds a sense of whimsy to the celebration. "Rondeau", originally commissioned by George II of Great Britain for a fireworks display in 1749, is a powerful and triumphant tune that will add an extra layer of pomp and royalty to the occasion.
If you're looking for a classical piece that is elegant and traditional, consider the Bridal Chorus from Wagner's 1850 opera "Lohengrin", more popularly known as "Here Comes the Bride". This piece has stood the test of time and is often chosen for bridal entrances, including by Meghan Markle at her wedding to Prince Harry. Another elegant choice is "Canon in D" by Pachelbel, a classic that will make your recessional walk truly unforgettable.
For religious ceremonies, hymns are a lovely way to accompany the recessional. 'Jerusalem' by Parry is a reliable choice, having been featured at the wedding of the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine, in 2011. Fauré's choral classic and John Rutter's setting of the Priestly Blessing are also beautiful and contemplative choices to create a serene atmosphere.
Wedding Night: Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Upbeat songs
Signed, Sealed, Delivered" by Stevie Wonder
This classic tune by Stevie Wonder is a pledge of loyalty to the one you love. With its upbeat vibe and meaningful lyrics, it's a popular choice for couples in metro Detroit, adding a fun and playful touch to their wedding exit.
"Beautiful Day" by U2
U2's "Beautiful Day" is another popular choice for its uplifting and optimistic message. The song's title alone sets the tone for a couple's wedding day, celebrating their love and new beginning together.
"Better Together" by Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson's "Better Together" is a perfect selection for outdoor weddings, especially at venues like Meadow Brook Hall or Shepherd's Hollow Golf Club. The song's message of being "better together" captures the essence of unity and love on your special day.
"Spring" by Felix Mendelssohn
"Spring" is a timeless classic often featured in TV and movie weddings. Its upbeat melody and dramatic crescendos make it a popular choice for couples who want to infuse their recessional with energy and a touch of drama.
"Eine Kleine Nacht Musik" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
For a bright and exciting recessional, consider "Eine Kleine Nacht Musik" by Mozart. This instantly recognisable melody will add a layer of happiness and intimacy to your wedding exit, leaving a lasting impression on your guests.
"You're the One That I Want" from Grease
For a fun and unique twist, you might choose a song like "You're the One That I Want" from the iconic musical Grease. It's a playful way to celebrate your love, and your guests will surely enjoy this unexpected recessional tune.
Harry and Meghan's Wedding Date
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The recessional song is played at the end of the wedding ceremony when the newly married couple and their wedding party walk up the aisle.
Some popular classical choices for a wedding recessional song include "Wedding March" by Felix Mendelssohn, "Spring" by Mendelssohn, "Ode to Joy" by Beethoven, and "Hornpipe" by Handel.
Some popular modern choices for a wedding recessional song include "Love on Top" by Beyoncé, "Beautiful Day" by U2, "Hey Ya" by Outkast, "I Gotta Feeling" by The Black Eyed Peas, and "Better Together" by Jack Johnson.
The right wedding recessional song should match the energy and mood of the couple and the wedding. It should be a thoughtful, romantic, and sentimental choice that the couple loves. The tempo of the song can also be considered, with faster beats adding excitement and slower tempos creating a more serene atmosphere.










![Drive It by Lincoln St. Exit [Music CD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51hMpZoAOgL._AC_UY218_.jpg)


















![Confetti Sky [6 Pack] 12 Inch Confetti Cannons | Multicolor Confetti Poppers for Wedding Celebration, Birthday Party, Pranks, Graduation, Christmas Eve and New Year Celebration](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91JmP3ZpW3L._AC_UY218_.jpg)



![The Celebration (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/714ji0qSDRL._AC_UY218_.jpg)



