Franklin Dean
Music is an integral part of weddings, with songs being played at various points throughout the day, from the ceremony to the reception. While there is no single official wedding song, there are several popular choices for wedding songs, including The Wedding Song by Peter, Paul, and Mary, and Wagner's Bridal Chorus, often played when the bride enters, followed by Mendelssohn as the recessional. Couples may also choose to incorporate songs from their favourite movies, TV shows, or musicals, or opt for more unique and indie love songs. Ultimately, the choice of wedding songs depends on the couple's personal preferences, with some opting for classic and romantic options, while others may prefer funny or choreographed routines for their wedding party entrance song.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Genre | R&B, Country, Acoustic, Indie, Jazz, Broadway, Religious, Pop, Blues, Rock |
| Tempo | Upbeat, Slow, Funky, Sentimental |
| Lyrics | Romantic, Endearing, Fun |
| Artist | Elton John, Billy Joel, Frank Ocean, Elvis, Ed Sheeran, Queen, Bruno Mars, Elbow, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Celine Dion, The Beatles, John Coltrane, Tony Bennett |
| Song | Your Song, Just the Way You Are, Moon River, Can't Help Falling in Love, Perfect, You're My Best Friend, Uptown Funk, L-O-V-E, Dream a Little Dream of Me, Here Comes the Sun, In Your Room, Voice of the Soul |
| Occasion | Prelude, Processional/Bridal Processional, Recessional, First Dance, Reception Entrance |
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What You'll Learn
First dance songs
The "first dance song" at a wedding is a special moment for the newly married couple, and there are many directions in which one can go when choosing a song. Some couples opt for traditional romance, with songs like "The Power of Love" by Celine Dion, "Dream a Little Dream of Me" by Ella Fitzgerald, "L.O.V.E" by Nat King Cole, or "Still the One" by Shania Twain. Others go for more modern romantic hits, such as "Running Home to You" by Grant Gustin, or "Crazy Love", a song with the lyrics "I know I can't ever tell you enough/That all I need in this life is your crazy love".
Some couples prefer to incorporate their favourite genres, such as show tunes, indie music, R&B, country, or jazz, with artists like Ella Fitzgerald, Tony Bennett, and John Coltrane. Others opt for songs from films, such as "I See the Light" from Tangled, or "Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles, which was used in a scene from a movie.
If you're planning a Catholic wedding or want to add religious meaning to your wedding day, there are many songs to choose from, and a harpist can add an elegant and romantic touch to your wedding day. For those who want to stick to tradition, Wagner's "Bridal Chorus" ("Here Comes the Bride"), and Mendelssohn's "Wedding March" are popular choices, with the former being played when the bride enters, and the latter as the recessional.
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Walking down the aisle songs
Choosing the right song to walk down the aisle to is essential as it is one of the most significant moments of your wedding day. The song should be meaningful to you and your partner, and it should also set the pace for your walk. It is recommended to choose a song with a slightly slower-than-normal pace, so you and your bridesmaids can walk comfortably.
There are a few ways to bring meaning to your bridal entrance song. You could select a song that expresses your feelings towards your partner, reflects your life as a couple, or symbolises the blending of families. You might also opt for "your song" as a couple or a song that holds personal significance. For instance, in the film Breaking Dawn - Part 2, Bella walks down the aisle to "Turning Page" by Sleeping At Last, while Kim Kardashian chose Andrea Bocelli's "Ave Maria" for her wedding to Kanye West. Kate Middleton's entrance song was "I Was Glad" by Sir Charles Hubert Hastings Parry.
If you are looking for a traditional choice, Wagner's "Bridal Chorus" (often called "Here Comes the Bride"), and Mendelssohn's "Wedding March" are commonly played as the bride enters. However, these songs are divisive due to their association with Wagner and the fact that they are considered trite by some. As an alternative, you can consider the Prince of Denmark's March, which was used for Princess Diana's wedding and has a more dignified feel.
For a modern take, you could walk down the aisle to a song that holds personal meaning. For example, a couple might choose a song from a movie scene, such as "Just Can't Get Enough" by Depeche Mode, or an instrumental version of a Disney song like "I See the Light" from Tangled. Another option is to select a song with lyrics that resonate with you, such as "Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles or "The Power of Love" by Celine Dion.
Ultimately, the choice of song is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. You might consider the medium, such as whether you prefer live music or a recorded song, and ensure the song's tempo suits the pace you envision for your walk.
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Recessional songs
The recessional song is played at the end of the wedding ceremony when the newlyweds and wedding party walk up the aisle. It is the first song the couple hears as a married couple and sets the tone for the party to come. Couples can use the recessional song to express themselves, with a lot of flexibility in the style of song they choose.
If you're looking for a fun and upbeat song, you could choose a throwback like Outkast's "Hey Ya" or The Black Eyed Peas' "I Gotta Feeling". For a dramatic exit, a movie-ending closer like Arcade Fire's "Wake Up" might be more fitting.
For those who prefer classic hits, there are timeless options such as "The Wedding March" by Felix Mendelssohn, "You're the One That I Want" from Grease by Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta, or songs by The Beatles or Stevie Wonder. A couple of specific songs by Stevie Wonder that have been used as recessional songs are "As" and "The Way You Look Tonight".
If you're looking for something more contemporary, you could choose a recent hit by Beyoncé or Harry Styles. A 2014 indie-pop hit that could be perfect for an upbeat and infectious recessional song is "My li-i-i-i-i-ife!".
For couples who want something unique, there are plenty of options that are not typically played as wedding songs, such as "Still Dre" by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds", or "Manchester" by Kishi Bashi.
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Religious wedding songs
Music is an integral part of a wedding, and for religious couples, it is a way to express their love for God and each other. Religious wedding songs can be played at various points during the wedding, such as during the ceremony, reception, parent dances, and more.
If you're planning a Christian wedding, you might want to wed in a church, and it's important to remember that some churches have strict guidelines when it comes to music. It's always a good idea to get your Christian wedding songs approved in advance. Classical-style music or music from established religious traditions is often performed at religious weddings, and you can choose from a variety of instruments, including the organ and trumpet, or even vocal music.
There are many popular religious wedding songs to choose from, including classic hymns, instrumental renditions, and contemporary worship songs. For example, "Amazing Grace" is a well-loved Christian song, and you could also consider "Difference Maker," an upbeat song that speaks to a man's impending responsibilities. If you're looking for a song with gentle strumming of the guitar and warm vocals, "Love Never Fails You" by Brandon Heath is a great choice.
Lyrics play a crucial role in religious wedding songs, and here are some beautiful excerpts to consider:
> "May His presence go before you/And behind you, and beside you/All around you, and within you/He is with you, He is with you."
> "This much I know is true/That God blessed the broken road/That led me straight to you."
> "Here's my hand, it's yours to hold/I give myself to you/Here's my heart, please make it yours/I give my love to you."
> "Quench our hearts and fill this space with Heaven like a flood/Holy One, reign down on us with Your consuming love."
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Indie love songs
"You're So Cool" by Charlyn Marie Marshall (Cat Power): A gentle and wistful cover of the song from the movie "True Romance". This song is perfect for a processional, with its light and cool vibe.
"Good for Me" by Above & Beyond: A slowed-down version of this electronic song that still feels incredibly romantic and is perfect for a ceremony processional.
"Sunset Lover" by Petit Biscuit and "I'll Be There" by Jess Glynne: These unique tracks are chill and alternative, perfect for an indie love prelude or during your ceremony.
"Dreams" by The Cranberries and "There She Goes" by The La's: These '90s indie anthems will add a summery vibe to your cocktail hour or reception.
"Feel It Still" by Portugal. The Man: A commercial success, this indie classic has folk vibes and is perfect for a grand entrance or the final song of the night.
"My Moon My Man" by Feist and "Everybody" by Ingrid Michaelson: Super mellow songs that are ideal for early twilight weddings with twinkle lights.
"You Really Got a Hold on Me" by She & Him: A unique first dance song that will add a memorable touch to your wedding reception.
"Never Had Nobody Like You" by M. Ward: A deep cut featuring Zooey Deschanel's vocals, this gentle ballad will slow down time and create a romantic atmosphere.
Songs by Bon Iver, Arctic Monkeys, and Maggie Rogers: These artists have sweet hits that are perfect for various moments of your wedding day, from the processional to the reception.
In addition to these indie songs, you can also include some popular love songs by artists like Ed Sheeran and Whitney Houston to create a well-rounded wedding playlist.
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Frequently asked questions
Some popular wedding songs include "Your Song" by Elton John, "Just Can't Get Enough" by Depeche Mode, "How Long Will I Love You" by Ellie Goulding, "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis, "L-O-V-E" by Nat King Cole, and "Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles.
Some unique wedding songs include "Sabor a Mi" (Los Panchos arrangement), "Pride and Joy" by Stevie Ray Vaughan, "Here Comes the Bride" by Richard Wagner, "The Wedding" from Bicentennial Man, and "A Thousand Years" (violin cover).
Some romantic wedding songs include "The Book of Love" by Peter Gabriel, "Dream a Little Dream of Me" by Ella Fitzgerald, "Stand By Me", "Just the Way You Are" by Billy Joel, and "Yours" by Russell Dickerson.
