chronicles Wedding Tips
Wedding Processional Songs
The Best Songs Of All Time
From classic wedding marches to alternative rock pieces, the best processional songs for a spectacular and unforgettable entrance
by Giorgia Torsello
Music functions as a mode of communication mediating between the listener and the unconscious, involving us emotionally, inducing pleasure and euphoria, and sometimes sending chills down our spine. Music strengthens bonds and creates memories. Choosing the right song can add a touch of romance, drama or grandeur to your wedding. One way to make your wedding special is by carefully selecting a playlist that includes a bride song. Whether the songs will played by a live band or not, your playlist should feature some of the best wedding processional songs of all time (here the best Wedding Recessional Songs).
The bride entrance song sets the tone for the entire ceremony. You want to choose a song that best suits your personality, your love story, and the overall look and feel of your wedding. Classical music is perfect for religious celebrations, while contemporary songs are best suited for modern-day brides having a civil or symbolic wedding.
If you’re looking for the perfect song that will make your partner’s heart skip a beat as you slowly walk towards him, take a look at our round up of the best songs to suit all tastes and any type of ceremony.
Classical Music
“Bridal Chorus (Here Comes the Bride)” by Richard Wagner
The most classic of them all. Dramatic and sustained, iconic rather than conventional, this wedding march has accompanied a number of couples in their magical moment and will undoubtedly continue to do so for years to come.
“Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel
Traditional and sophisticated but decidedly more delicate and upbeat than most other wedding marches, this song is perfect for formal occasions, whether devoutly religious or less so. It’s wonderful when performed live outdoors, such as in a country setting.
“Spring” by Antonio Vivaldi
“Spring” from Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons” is wonderfully harmonious, capturing the light and lively essence of spring, and the rebirth of nature with all its colors and scents. The song instills a state of sweet exaltation to the listener.
“Ave Maria” by Franz Schubert
Evocative and engaging, Schubert’s “Ave Maria” was inspired by the epic poem “The Lady of The Lake”. It’s a popular choice for Catholic ceremonies, although it wasn’t originally written for liturgical services.
“Air on the G String” by Johann Sebastian Bach
This is a timeless piece, preferably played by a string orchestra to accompany a bride’s slow walk down the aisle. Angelic and sentimental but with a touch of solemnity.
“Prince Of Denmark’s March” by Jeremiah Clarke
Best known as “Trumpet Voluntary”, Clarke’s composition is often chosen by royalty for lavish unions, probably for its dramatic combination of horn and organ that lends itself well to traditional religious ceremonies.
Modern Music
“Hallelujah” by Pentatonix
Although we also love the Jeff Buckley cover, the Pentatonix a cappella version makes for the perfect entrance song. Simple but poignant, it’ll likely make your closest friends shed a few tears.
“Here Comes The Sun” by The Beatles
This Beatles classic is moving and carefree, perfect when played on the guitar for guests to hum along to. It’s ideal for open-air ceremonies.
“Can You Feel The Love Tonight” by Elton John
From the Disney soundtrack of The Lion King, this magnificent song depicts love as a spell, a safe haven in which you can find shelter from the brutality of the outside world.
“Somewhere Over The Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
This ukelele song marries “Over The Rainbow” and “What A Wonderful World”. Dreamy, sweet and romantic, it’ perfect for unconventional ceremonies, such as a tropical beach wedding.
“Can’t Help Falling In Love With You” by Elvis Presley
This lullaby from the soundtrack of Blue Hawaii features the King of Rock-n-Roll’s deep and sensual voice. It portrays love as an unstoppable force, and falling in love as a sudden, inevitable event.
“I’m Kissing You” by Des’ree
Written for the scene in which the two lovers meet in Baz Luhrmann’s film Romeo + Juliet, “I’m Kissing You” warms the heart with its soft and seducing R&B tones.
“Follow The Sun” by Xavier Rudd
This upbeat song is all about worshipping nature and living a spiritual, non-material life devoid of rigid social structures.
“Moon River” by Frank Sinatra
Originally written by Henry Mancini for Audrey Hepburn in Colazione Da Tiffany, Sinatra’s “Moon River” is as wonderfully lighthearted choice that highlights the beauty of youth. It’s an innocent declaration of love to love itself.
“Sweet Disposition” by The Temper Trap
Disillusioned but firmly optimistic, the electronic rock song “Sweet Disposition” describes life and relationships as a constant challenge to overcome the lows and make the most of the highs. “A dream, a kiss, a laugh”.
“Your Song” by Elton John
This is one of the most celebrated love songs of all time. This heartfelt piano and acoustic guitar composition by musical genius Elton John has lyrics that are tender and full of meaning.
“She” by Elvis Costello
This version of Elvis Costello’s “Tous Les Visages De L’Amour”, which featured in the 1990s romantic comedy Notting Hill, is a beautiful contemplative love song. It’s everything but soppy.
“I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” by Aerosmith
By this legendary rock group led by Steven Tyler, “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” is a song about sharing every moment with your partner. What better way to start your life together?
“First Day Of My Life” by Bright Eyes
“Yours was the first face that I saw / I think I was blind before I met you.” This adorable song with a sweet and rhythmic beat is a great choice for alternative indie couples.
“All Of Me” by John Legend
The lyrics of John Legend’s simple piano melody are particularly touching. The song was inspired by his wife – his soul mate – and the deep love he feels towards her and her ‘perfect imperfections’.