The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Songs
As the big day approaches, choosing all the right songs can feel overwhelming. To make it easier, we’ve created a complete guide to the songs you’ll need for your wedding day, complete with inspiration and helpful tips to simplify the song selection process.
Ceremony
Traditionally, three songs are played during the ceremony. One song is for the seating of the parents and grandparents, one for the wedding party, and one for the bride. However, you can choose as many or as few songs as you would like for your ceremony! Below are some different ideas to give you and your partner inspiration for what songs to choose for your ceremony.
Parents and Grandparents Processional
Ideas:
“What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
“You Are the Sunshine of My Life” by Stevie Wonder
“Forever Young” by Rod Stewart
Groom and Groomsmen Processional
Ideas:
“Suit & Tie” by Justin Timberlake
“Sharp Dressed Man” by ZZ Top
“Home Sweet” by Russell Dickerson
Bridesmaids and Bride Processional
Ideas for Bridesmaids:
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” (Instrumental) by The Piano Guys
“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
Ideas for the Bride:
“Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel
“Marry Me” by Train
“You Are The Reason” by Calum Scott
Recessional
Traditionally, the recessional is one song that plays as the couple, wedding party, parents, and grandparents walk out of the ceremony. This song should be upbeat and high energy, so your guests can share in the excitement after you are announced!
Ideas:
“This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole
“Stargazing” by Myles Smith
“Loving You Easy” by Zac Brown Band
Reception
Grand Entrance
A grand entrance is an exciting moment that sets the tone for your reception and officially kicks off the celebration! Some couples choose to make this entrance as a duo, keeping the spotlight solely on themselves, while others include their wedding party. Whether it’s the bridesmaids and groomsmen entering as groups or pairing up as they did during the ceremony, this moment is all about creating a joyful and memorable start to the festivities.
Ideas:
“Bring Em Out” by T.I.
“Love on Top” by Beyonce
“Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars
First Dance
The first dance usually takes place right after the grand entrance, marking a sweet and intimate moment for the couple. While some love the excitement of a fully choreographed routine, others prefer to keep it simple and "wing it" with a more low-key approach that feels natural and effortless.
Ideas:
“All Your’n” by Tyler Childers
“At Last” by Etta James
“You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne
Parent Dances
Parent dances are a heartfelt tradition, but some couples choose to adapt or forgo them based on their unique family dynamics. For example, a bride might share a special dance with her mother, brother, uncle, or even a grandparent instead of the traditional father-daughter dance. This flexibility allows couples to honor the relationships that mean the most to them in a way that feels personal and meaningful.
Ideas for Father-Daughter Dance:
“My Girl” by The Temptations
“Little Bird” by The Jonas Brothers
Ideas for Mother-Son Dance:
“A Song for Mama” by Boyz II Men
“Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
Cake Cutting
Choosing a specific cake-cutting song is completely optional! Some couples prefer to keep this moment more private, opting not to draw too much attention during the cake cutting. In these cases, the DJ or band can simply play soft background music to keep the atmosphere relaxed and enjoyable without making it a focal point.
Ideas:
“Sugar” by Maroon 5
“How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)” by James Taylor
“Cake by the Ocean” by DNCE
Champagne Tower
A champagne tower is a totally optional addition to your wedding reception but can be an exciting way to hype up your guests and get the party started! The dramatic pour and bubbly energy make it a fun moment that sets the tone for the celebration. Consider incorporating it right after the grand entrance or just before opening up the dance floor to keep the momentum going and the excitement high!
Ideas:
“Raise Your Glass” by P!nk
“Cheers (Drink to That)” by Rihanna
“Happy Days Are Here Again” by Barbra Streisand
First Song of the Night for the Dancefloor
Choosing the perfect song to open the dance floor is an important decision for couples, as it sets the tone for the rest of the party. Every couple has their own unique musical preferences, and they know their crowd better than anyone else. By selecting a song that resonates with them and their guests, they can ensure the dance floor kicks off with the right energy and gets everyone excited to join in the fun!
Ideas:
“Mr. Brightside” by The Killers
“Dancing Queen” by ABBA
“We Found Love” by Rihanna
Last Song of the Night for the Dancefloor
Picking the last group dance song of the night is just as important as the first! This song wraps up the celebration and leaves your guests with one final, unforgettable memory. Couples know their crowd best and can choose a song that brings everyone together for a high-energy send-off or a sweet, sentimental ending to the night. It’s the perfect way to close out the dance floor on a meaningful note!
Ideas:
“Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey
“Closing Time” by Semisonic
“Drunk in Love” by Beyonce
Private Last Dance
A private last dance is a beautiful way for couples to savor one final, intimate moment together before the night comes to an end. It offers a chance to soak in the joy of the day and reflect on all the love and celebration around them, away from the crowd. Whether it’s a quiet pause to connect or a romantic dance to close the night, this moment can feel incredibly special.
Ideas:
"Yours" by Russell Dickerson
"At Last" by Etta James
"You Are the Best Thing" by Ray LaMontagne
Helpful Tips for Picking Wedding Songs
Planning your wedding playlist doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Here are a few tips to make it fun and stress-free:
Create a Shared Notes App: Start a shared note with your fiance where you can jot down songs as you hear them. Whether it’s during a date night, a car ride, or even in a coffee shop, this will help you build a list of ideas effortlessly.
Think About the Vibes: Match the song to the mood of the moment. For example, go romantic for the first dance, joyful for the recessional, and upbeat for the grand entrance.
Ask for Recommendations: Your DJ, wedding planner, or friends who’ve tied the knot might have amazing suggestions!
Test It Out: Play the songs in advance to ensure they fit the mood and timing of each moment perfectly.
The right songs turn your wedding day into a celebration to remember. Mix meaningful, timeless tunes with party favorites to create the perfect playlist. Which songs will make it onto your wedding day soundtrack? 🎶
