The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Ceremony Songs for Every Moment of Your Big Day
- Liz Craig, Pianist
- Oct 14, 2017
- 2 min read
Updated: Dec 5, 2023
A wedding ceremony is such a special event in the lives of every couple. Carefully selected songs for each part of the ceremony can really help to elevate the emotions and create beautiful memories. I have performed for over 200 ceremonies and have performed a range of styles of music. I always encourage couples to choose songs that they resonate with but there are also some practical things to consider for the big day. I've compiled below a list of some traditional and popular choices that work well for each moment:
Bridal Party Processional
This is the first song your guests will hear and it will set the stage. It is a good idea to pick a longer piece especially if you have a large bridal party. It is also good to consider pieces that are slow and easy to walk to i.e. have a regular rhythm.
Traditional Pick: Canon in D
Popular Choice: A Thousand Years by Christina Perri
Bridal Processional
This is what the bride has been envisioning! I always encourage a special song that means a lot to the couple. You will want to consider a shorter piece, or a verse and chorus that you really want to hear of a longer piece. A slow, easy to walk to piece will help the bride take her time and enjoy the moment.
Traditional Pick: Bridal Chorus (Here Comes the Bride)
Popular Choices:
Signing of the Marriage License
During the signing, the couple is eager to finalize things by putting pen to paper. This is a good time to have an uplifting, beautiful piece for your guests to listen to. Pick a 3-4 minute long song that has a message of lifelong love to boost the wedding feels.
Popular Choices:
Say You Won't Let Go by James Arthur
Recessional
Please welcome the newleyweds! This is most exciting part of the ceremony - the couple and guests have been waiting for this since the engagement. Pick an upbeat song with a catchy tune that gets everyone in the mood to celebrate!
Traditional Pick: Wedding March by Mendelssohn
Popular Choices:
All You Need is Love by the Beatles
This Will Be an Everlasting Love by Natalie Cole
Happy by Pharrell Williams
Marry You by Bruno Mars
Signed, Sealed, Delivered - I'm Yours! by Stevie Wonder
Happy Wedding Planning! :)
Please share with any engaged couples you know. To book me for your wedding ceremony music, please visit www.lizcraig.ca
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