How to Choose Wedding Music for Your Ceremony (Without Making It Awkward)

Photo Credit: Image provided by PrettyBurdPortraits

Okay, let’s be real—wedding ceremony music is kind of a big deal. It’s the soundtrack to one of the most important moments of your life. You know, the moment where all eyes are on you, your partner is trying not to cry (but definitely is), and your guests are either swooning or Snapchatting (we see you, Aunt Karen).

So why do so many couples leave music as an afterthought?

Choosing the right songs isn’t just about picking a playlist—it’s about creating a vibe. It’s about making sure your walk down the aisle feels iconic, your vows feel cinematic, and your grand exit feels like the happiest scene in a rom-com.

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Let’s break down exactly how to pick the perfect ceremony music so your wedding feels like the main-character moment it deserves to be.

The Pre-Ceremony Playlist: Set the Mood, Don’t Put People to Sleep 🎧

Before the big moment, your guests are arriving, mingling, and wondering if they picked the right seat (spoiler: they didn’t). Your pre-ceremony music should create a warm, romantic atmosphere while still keeping things light.

Best Picks for a Relaxed & Romantic Vibe:

✅ Acoustic love songs (Ed Sheeran basically invented this category)
✅ String quartet covers of pop hits (because “Shallow” by Lady Gaga on violin just hits differently)
✅ Chill indie or R&B (think John Legend, Norah Jones, or Leon Bridges)

What to Avoid: Anything that’s too upbeat or distracting (“We Will Rock You” might not be the best choice here, just saying).

The Processional: Your Slow-Motion Movie Moment 👰🏽🤵🏽

This is it. The doors open, everyone turns, and you take your first steps toward your forever. The song you choose for this moment should build anticipation and make people feel all the emotions.

Classic & Timeless:

🎶 Canon in D – Pachelbel (the GOAT of wedding music)
🎶 Ave Maria – Schubert (ethereal and angelic vibes)

Modern & Romantic:

🎶 A Thousand Years – Christina Perri (undeniably emotional)
🎶 Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley (or a Haley Reinhart - it’s amazing!)
🎶 Turning Page – Sleeping at Last (soft, dreamy, and heartfelt)

Unexpected & Cool:

🎶 Somewhere Only We Know – Keane (indie movie romance energy)
🎶 Your Song – Elton John (for the hopeless romantics)
🎶 First Day of My Life – Bright Eyes (if you want something sweet and unconventional)

What to Avoid: Anything with a weird lyrical meaning (Looking at you, “Every Breath You Take” – a love song that’s actually about stalking).

The Mid-Ceremony Moment: When the Music Fades into the Background 🎤💍

Whether you’re lighting a unity candle, exchanging vows, or doing a handfasting ceremony, soft background music can make the moment feel even more meaningful. It should be emotional, but not overpowering.

Soft & Sentimental Picks:

🎶 Better Together – Jack Johnson (simple and sweet)
🎶 You Are the Best Thing – Ray LaMontagne (warm and soulful)
🎶 Marry Me – Train (a little on the nose, but hey, it works!)

The Recessional: Time to Party! 🎉

You did it! You’re officially married, and now it’s time to celebrate. Your recessional song should feel like a confetti cannon going off in music form—pure happiness, pure fun, and the ultimate cue for your guests to cheer.

Upbeat & Joyful:

🎶 Signed, Sealed, Delivered – Stevie Wonder (funky, fun, and full of soul)
🎶 You Make My Dreams – Hall & Oates (instant feel-good energy)
🎶 Best Day of My Life – American Authors (literally the name of the song)

Something a Little Different:

🎶 Love on Top – Beyoncé (because you’re walking out like the power couple you are)
🎶 This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) – Natalie Cole (romantic and high-energy)
🎶 I Wanna Dance With Somebody – Whitney Houston (because why not start the party now?)

What to Avoid: Anything slow or emotional—this is the moment to turn UP, not tear up!

Final Thoughts: Make Your Wedding Soundtrack as Iconic as Your Love Story

Your ceremony music isn’t just background noise—it’s the heartbeat of the most important moments of your wedding day. From the first note of your processional to the last cheer of your recessional, the right songs will make your wedding feel straight out of a movie.

Need a DJ who gets it? Who won’t just press play but will make sure your ceremony sounds flawless from start to finish? We’ve got you. 🎶