From Processional to recessional: music picks for every moment

From Processional to Recessional: Music Picks for Every Moment
Music sets the tone for your wedding day, guiding guests through the emotional highs and unforgettable moments. From the walk down the aisle to the grand exit, every stage of your ceremony deserves the perfect soundtrack. Whether you’re planning a timeless, traditional wedding or something modern and upbeat, here’s your guide to choosing the best songs for each wedding moment.

​1. Prelude Music: Setting the Atmosphere
Before the ceremony officially begins, guests will arrive and take their seats. Soft background music creates a warm, welcoming vibe while building anticipation for the big entrance.
Popular Picks:

• Clair de Lune – Claude Debussy
• Can't Help Falling in Love – Instrumental Version
• A Thousand Years – Christina Perri (Piano Cover)
• Moon River – Audrey Hepburn
• Perfect – Ed Sheeran (Acoustic Version)

2. Processional: Walking Down the Aisle
The processional marks the emotional moment when the wedding party and couple make their entrance. You’ll want a song that reflects your personality and wedding style—whether it’s classical, romantic, or unique.
For the Wedding Party Processional:

• Canon in D – Johann Pachelbel
• Marry Me – Train
• Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
• Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers
• The One – Kodaline

For the Bride/Groom’s Entrance:

• Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles (Instrumental)
• Glasgow Love Theme – Love Actually Soundtrack
• I Get to Love You – Ruelle
• Turning Page – Sleeping At Last
• You Are the Reason – Calum Scott

3. Interlude: Ceremony Significance Moments
During key moments such as vows, readings, or unity ceremonies, having soft instrumental music or a meaningful song enhances the ambiance.
Meaningful Ceremony Songs:

• Ave Maria – Schubert
• All of Me – John Legend (Piano Instrumental)
• Hallelujah – Acoustic Version
• You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban
• Feels Like Home – Chantal Kreviazuk

4. Recessional: The Celebration Begins!
Once the vows are exchanged and the couple is officially married, the recessional is the grand exit—your first steps as newlyweds! This moment calls for uplifting, celebratory music.
Upbeat & Joyful Exit Songs:

• Signed, Sealed, Delivered – Stevie Wonder
• Best Day of My Life – American Authors
• Happy – Pharrell Williams
• You Make My Dreams – Hall & Oates
• Love on Top – Beyoncé

5. Postlude: Transitioning to the Reception
As guests make their way to cocktail hour or the reception venue, a playlist with fun, lighthearted tunes helps maintain the excitement.
Songs to Keep the Energy Going:

• You’re My Best Friend – Queen
• Can’t Stop the Feeling – Justin Timberlake
• Love Never Felt So Good – Michael Jackson & Justin Timberlake
• Stand by Me – Ben E. King
• Treasure – Bruno Mars​

Hayley Pethel Photography

Final Thoughts
Your wedding music should reflect your love story and set the perfect emotional tone for every moment. Whether you prefer classic instrumentals or modern chart-toppers, the right songs will make each step down the aisle unforgettable.