HOME

Music plays such a big part in your wedding day. It sets the tone, builds emotion and helps create those unforgettable moments that you will remember forever. From the moment your guests arrive to the last dance of the night, the right soundtrack brings it all to life.

We know it can feel overwhelming trying to choose songs for every part of the day, so we have put together the ultimate wedding music checklist to help you get started. Each section includes a few popular options, but the most important thing is choosing songs that feel like you. Whether you go for classic, emotional or completely unexpected, it is your day and your music should reflect that.

Let’s go through each moment step by step.

Arrival Music

This is the music that plays as your guests arrive and take their seats before the ceremony begins. It helps create a welcoming atmosphere and sets the mood for what is to come. Keep it light and romantic, nothing too loud or dramatic just yet.

Examples:

Canon in D, Pachelbel

A Thousand Years, Christina Perri (instrumental version works beautifully)

Somewhere Over the Rainbow, Israel Kamakawiwoole

Turning Page, Sleeping at Last

Clair de Lune, Debussy

Walking Down The Aisle

One of the most emotional moments of the day. This is your moment and the music should reflect the atmosphere you want to create. You might go for something heartfelt and gentle or something powerful that builds anticipation.

Examples:

I Get to Love You, Ruelle

Can’t Help Falling in Love, Kina Grannis version

Songbird, Fleetwood Mac

Halo, Beyoncé (piano instrumental)

Make You Feel My Love, Adele

Signing The Register

This part of the ceremony takes a few minutes so you will usually need two or three songs to play quietly in the background. Keep it relaxed and romantic with gentle vocals or instrumental versions.

Examples:

Stand By Me, Ben E King

Better Together, Jack Johnson

Your Song, Elton John

She, Elvis Costello

Perfect, Ed Sheeran

Ceremony Exit Music

You are officially married, now it is time for something upbeat and joyful. This music plays as you walk back down the aisle together and guests cheer and celebrate.

Examples:

This Will Be, Natalie Cole

You Make My Dreams, Hall and Oates

Best Day of My Life, American Authors

Signed Sealed Delivered, Stevie Wonder

You Are the Best Thing, Ray LaMontagne

Drinks Reception

This is a great time for light background music to keep the mood upbeat while your guests mingle. Acoustic covers, jazz or soul always go down well. If you are having a live musician or band, this is a great place to feature them.

Examples:

L-O-V-E, Nat King Cole

Dreams, The Cranberries (acoustic cover)

Marry You, Bruno Mars

At Last, Etta James

You’ve Got the Love, Florence and the Machine

Wedding Breakfast

Music during your meal should be soft and subtle so guests can still chat. Think easy listening, romantic tracks or acoustic versions of your favourite songs. You can also mix in some instrumental film scores or piano covers.

Examples:

Thinking Out Loud, Ed Sheeran (instrumental)

Come Away With Me, Norah Jones

Somewhere Only We Know, Keane

Lucky, Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat

Just the Way You Are, Bruno Mars

First Dance

This is a big moment for most couples. It does not have to be traditional or slow if that is not your style. Choose something that means something to you both, whether it is romantic, fun or totally unexpected.

Examples:

All of Me, John Legend

Beyond, Leon Bridges

You and Me, Lifehouse

I Choose You, Ryann Darling

Baby I’m Yours, Arctic Monkeys

Ready to start planning? Click here to take a look at our beautiful wedding stationery.