The Most Elegant, Inspiring, & Romantic Wedding Processional Songs
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When it comes to choosing your wedding day playlist, the music you select sets the tone, cements the ambiance, and guides your guests' emotions throughout your day. The processional is traditionally the first time guests lay eyes on the couple, and while you may have hosted a welcome cocktail upon arrival, your walk down the aisle marks the true beginning of your event. Set the mood; you'll want to pick a song that feels personal and special to you as a couple, and also one that fits the vibe of your venue.
Some couples may opt for classical music selections throughout the ceremony and make more personal song selects for the reception and after party; others may want something more mainstream and modern playing throughout the day. Ray Jarrell of Jarrell Entertainment suggests working with your chosen entertainment specialists to curate a personal experience. Maybe it's about having "a gospel choir or having live artists play their version of your favorite processional song." As for how to handle the decision making process, Elan Artists encourages their couples to pick a processional song first, "then build the rest of your ceremony selections around that." As for ALR Music, they're all about the traditional with a modern twist. "If you're more Prince than Pachelbel, don't feel the need to compromise," says Alex Le Roux, the company's managing director. Want to step outside of the box? Hank Lane Music advises couples not to limit themselves—think a New Orlean's style Second Line to lead you and your bridal party down the aisle.
No matter what style of music you prefer or have in mind for your walk down the aisle, remember that this day is about you as a couple. Work with your planner and your entertainment professionals to guide you—or, simply consult this list. Here, 20 processional song ideas from the weddings industry's greatest entertainers.
“January Wedding” by The Avett Brothers
Getting married in January? Consider yourself more country than classic? Opt for this elegant banjo banger.
“All Love Everything” by Aloe Blacc
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Create a dreamy mood with this Sigur Ros fan-favorite. Consider hiring live musicians to play over the track for a more elevated feel.
“Bridal Chorus” by Richard Wagner
For the traditionalist, "Here Comes the Bride" is about as classic as you can get. According to Elan Artists, "most couples have a strong preference on this one one way or another." If you're not sold on the traditional tune, don't force it—opt for another tune off this list.
“Canon In D” by Pachelbel
Another traditional option, "Canon In D" is foolproof—and in our opinion, it's a slightly more elegant classic than the standard "Here Comes the Bride" bridal chorus.
“Trumpet Voluntary” by Clarke
Recognize this tune? Odds are you've heard it while watching a royal wedding or two. We'd recommend opting for "Trumpet Voluntary" if your ceremony is taking place in a church, and especially if you're planning to walk down the aisle in a grand cathedral. This horn and organ combination is traditional with a dramatic flare.
“Largo from Winter” by Antonio Vivaldi
It's important to not only think about what song you'll walk down the aisle to, but how your guests will best enjoy it. This string favorite sounds beautiful played by a live quartet.
“Air on the G String” by Johann Sebastian Bach
This classical string orchestra favorite is a beautiful ceremony choice.
“Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” by Johann Sebastian Bach
Add in a gospel choir to sing along to your classical tunes, and make a musical statement during your ceremony and processional. For your recessional, have them switch to a more modern tune that best speaks to your style as a couple.
“Largo from Xerxes” by Handel
Opt for this opera classic if you'll have a set of strings to play it live during the ceremony.
“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
A popular option from ALR Music for a modern ceremony, Christina Perri's "A Thousand Years" is romantic and emotionally charged.
“Can’t Help Falling In Love With You” by Elvis Presley
Opt for this Elvis classic or enlist your own vocalist for a modern rendition—Erik Marshall of Hank Lane Music says, "[we're] definitely starting to see more influence by the wedding scene in Crazy Rich Asians featuring the Kira Grannis version of Elvis’s "Can’t Help Falling In Love With You."
“Rather Be” by Vitamin String Quartet
A Jarrell Entertainment top pick, try an instrumental version of Clean Bandit's "Rather Be" featuring Jess Glynne for an upbeat and playful option.
“Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles
For the free spirit or the Beatles-obsessed, "Here Comes the Sun" is an ethereal and a chill choice for the ceremony, be it for the processional or the recessional.
“Ave Maria Virgo Serena” by Josquin de Prez
If a choral sound is what you're looking for, this song selection sounds beautiful in a church or a more intimate, religious setting.
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
This popular song feels dreamy, genuine, and sets a serene mood. This tune would suit a beach ceremony or an aisle in any tropical setting. If you aren't into the lyrics for your aisle walk, ask your musicians to play an acoustic version without vocals.
“January Wedding” by The Avett Brothers
Getting married in January? Consider yourself more country than classic? Opt for this elegant banjo banger.
“Hoppípolla” by Sigur Rós
Create a dreamy mood with this Sigur Ros fan-favorite. Consider hiring live musicians to play over the track for a more elevated feel.
“Sea of Love” by Cat Power
A true love song, this Cat Power classic is delicate and whimsical.
“This Feeling” by Alabama Shakes
With a casual, distinctive, and soulful sound, this song has lyrics like, "And it feels so nice to know I'm gonna be alright..." which set the mood and makes for a unique—and bluesy—option.
“Angel” by Jack Johnson
The romantic lyrics of this melody are sweet, and this song feels far more current than a classical piece. If you're looking for live music but a more formal quartet isn't your vibe, opt for a solo guitarist to play this track.
“I’m Kissing You” by Des’ree
If sultry, soulful R&B is more your vibe, then this 1996 chart-topper will hit all the right notes.
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