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Greatest Hits: Our Favorite Wedding Songs

Lauren Madison • Apr 23, 2018

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Wedding songs are the backdrop to your big event. Songs come into play throughout the wedding process, from the ceremony to the dances after. In this post, we'll go over our favorite wedding songs for all parts of the wedding, from start to finish. You'll love our choices!

Procession Songs

The “Bridal Chorus” was the traditional procession song for many years. When that fell out of fashion, it opened up a whole new world for brides marching down the aisle. These procession songs are for couples who want something a little different but just as beautiful as the “Bridal Chorus.” Keep in mind, brides often walk down the aisle to a different song from the rest of the processional. If you're planning to do the same with your wedding party, you can choose two songs from this list instead of one!

  • “Canon in D,” Pachelbel: This classic wedding song is a favorite alternative to the “Bridal Chorus.”

  • “All You Need is Love,” The Beatles: This cheery, fun piece adds a lighthearted quality to any procession.

  • “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” Israel Kamakawiwo'Ole: This lovely combination of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" and "What a Wonderful World" has the ring of nostalgia combined with a happy optimism. Perfect for any wedding!

Ceremony Songs

Some couples choose to play a song during the ceremony. Ceremony songs play in the background without distracting the audience from what's going on at the front. These pieces make lovely background music while you and your spouse to be are lighting candles, reciting vows, or engaging in other special moments.

  • “Ave Maria,” Schubert: A lovely, classic melody with a spiritual side.

  • “You Raise Me Up,” Josh Groban: Guests love this uplifting, elegant pop hit.

  • “Heartbeats,” Jose Gonzalez: This contemporary, mellow song is sure to add feeling to the ceremony without distracting from the ceremony.

Best Songs for the First Dance

The first dance is that exciting moment when the new couple can finally hold one another after the excitement elation of the ceremony. First dance songs should be romantic, lovely and fun for the audience to hear. These first dance songs are popular at modern weddings.

  • “Die With You,” Beyonce: Tear-jerking but simple, “Die With You” is that beautiful first dance song that couples dream about. We love this song's simple message of love, and Beyonce appeals to crowds of all ages, so it's bound to be a crowd pleaser.

  • “Amazed,” Lonestar: Big, bold and beautiful, this is a great song for country fans and fans of recent pop tunes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-skFgrV59A

  • “A Thousand Years,” Christina Perri: A favorite song among brides, “A Thousand Years” is a good slow song that still has a pop beat and a powerful message.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtOvBOTyX00

Contact Bella Sera

At Bella Sera, we've got a million ideas that can help couples plan for their big day. Whether you're looking for song suggestions, need a good caterer or simply want a beautiful venue to hold the wedding of your dreams, we can help. Our lovely venue has been the site of hundreds of weddings for Pittsburgh couples. Contact us today to plan your dream wedding.

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