When choosing ceremony music, normally there are 4 specific songs.
Music plays a crucial role in setting the tone for your wedding ceremony. Whether you envision a traditional, elegant affair or a modern, personalized celebration, the right music selections will enhance the experience for both you and your guests. While every wedding is unique, there are a few key moments during the ceremony where music is almost always included:
- Seating of Mothers, Grandmothers, and/or Honor Attendants – This is typically the first song played as the ceremony begins. It sets the mood and welcomes the closest family members into the space.
- Entrance of the Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, Groom, and Officiant – As the wedding party makes their way down the aisle, a song is played to mark the occasion.
- Entrance of the Bride – One of the most significant moments of the ceremony, the bride’s entrance song should be meaningful and dramatic, building anticipation and emotion.
- Exit of the Couple After They Are Married (Recessional) – A joyful, celebratory song that marks the beginning of your new life together as a married couple.
In addition to these key moments, you may choose to incorporate additional music for special parts of your ceremony, such as the lighting of a unity candle, a sand ceremony, or any other traditions that hold meaning for you. If you have a friend or family member performing a song, we can provide a backing track to support their performance
Traditional vs. Modern Ceremony Music Choices
When selecting your wedding ceremony music, you have the option of going with classic, traditional pieces or incorporating more contemporary songs that hold personal significance. Traditional wedding music often includes classical compositions such as:
- Canon in D by Johann Pachelbel
- Bridal Chorus (commonly known as “Here Comes the Bride”) by Richard Wagner
- Wedding March by Felix Mendelssohn
- Ave Maria by Franz Schubert
These timeless pieces have been played at weddings for generations and evoke a sense of elegance and formality. However, many couples choose to step away from tradition and personalize their ceremony with modern songs that reflect their relationship, personalities, and love story.
Popular Non-Traditional Ceremony Songs
Over the years, we have played a wide variety of non-traditional wedding ceremony songs, particularly for the recessional. Some of the most popular choices include:
- Walking on Sunshine – Katrina and the Waves
- How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You) – James Taylor
- All You Need Is Love – The Beatles
- This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) – Natalie Cole
- Best Day of My Life – American Authors
- Can’t Stop the Feeling! – Justin Timberlake
Many couples opt for an upbeat, feel-good song for the recessional to celebrate their newlywed status as they walk back down the aisle together. This is a great opportunity to break away from traditional choices and make a statement with a song that brings joy to both you and your guests.
Customizing Your Wedding Ceremony Music
One of the best ways to make your wedding truly unique is by customizing your ceremony music. If you want to use non-traditional songs but aren’t sure where to start, we are happy to offer suggestions based on your style, preferences, and wedding theme.
We can also help you find different instrumental versions of songs if you want a recognizable tune but prefer a softer, more elegant feel.
Some couples love acoustic versions of their favorite songs, while others might prefer instrumental covers by artists like The Piano Guys, Vitamin String Quartet, or Brooklyn Duo.
These arrangements provide the best of both worlds: modern, recognizable melodies with the timeless elegance of string instruments or piano.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding ceremony music should reflect who you are as a couple. Whether you choose traditional, modern, or a mix of both, the right songs will enhance the emotional impact of your special day. We are here to assist you in selecting, coordinating, and ensuring that every song fits perfectly with your ceremony timeline.
If you have specific requests or need recommendations, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re more than happy to help you create the perfect soundtrack for your big moment!
Other songs that are popular for ceremonies are:
A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
A Lovely Day – Bill Withers
I Believe in You and Me
Me and You – Kenny Chesney
Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion
Can’t Help Falling in Love – UB40
All for Love – Bryan Adams
Chapel of Love – Dixie Cups
Bless the Broken Road – Rascal Flats
For my Wedding – Don Henley
Hawaiian Wedding Song – Elvis
Amazed – Lonestar
Beautiful Day – U2
For Once in my Life – Michael Buble
Come Away With Me – Norah Jones
I Cross My Heart – George Strait
Signed Sealed Delivered – Stevie Wonder
Celebration – Kool and the Gang
Hold My Hand – Hootie and the Blowfish
Love Train – O’Jays
Thank you For Loving Me – Bon Jovi
Happy Together – The Turtles
We Are Family – Sister Sledge
L-O-V-E Michael Buble
Some Kind of Wonderful – Grand Funk Railroad
Joy to the World – Three Dog Night
