Brides and grooms-to-be have a lot on their minds when it comes to planning their weddings, and rightly so. But one aspect that often goes overlooked is the selection of the perfect song to accompany the processional — the walk down the aisle. This is a very special moment in the wedding ceremony, and the right song can help set the tone and make the occasion even more memorable. Choosing the perfect song can seem like a daunting task, but with a few tips and some inspiration, you’ll be one step closer to selecting the perfect processional.
Consider the venue
Your wedding venue can provide tons of inspiration for your walking down the aisle song. For example, if you’re getting married in a church, a traditional wedding march might be the perfect choice. If you’re getting married outdoors, a more relaxed and casual song might be more appropriate. Perhaps a song that reflects the natural surroundings, such as “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles or “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses. Consider the vibe of the venue and pick a song that will complement it.
Choose a song that speaks to your relationship
When selecting a song for your walk down the aisle, it’s important to choose a song that reflects your relationship with your partner. Consider the lyrics of the song — is there a particular line or stanza that resonates with you both? A song that speaks to your shared values, interests, or experiences can make the moment even more meaningful. If you have a particular song that’s meaningful to you both, consider using that as your processional. For example, if you and your partner share a love of jazz, you might choose to walk down the aisle to “At Last” by Etta James.
Consider the tempo and mood of the song
When selecting a song for your walk down the aisle, it’s important to consider the tempo and mood of the song. A song that’s too fast or too slow might not create the right atmosphere. Consider the tone you want to set — do you want something romantic and intimate, or something that’s more lighthearted and fun? For example, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley is a classic love song that’s ideal for a romantic ceremony. Alternatively, “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” by The Darkness is a fun and upbeat song that would work well for a more unconventional wedding.
Think about the instrumentation
The instrumentation of a song can be just as important as the lyrics and melody when selecting a walking down the aisle song. Traditional wedding marches typically feature an organ, while other songs might feature a string quartet or solo instrumentalist. Consider whether you want live music or recorded music, and what instrumentation would best suit your chosen song. If you’re not sure, discuss the options with your wedding planner, musician, or DJ.
Conclusion
Choosing a song for the walk down the aisle doesn’t have to be stressful or difficult. By considering the venue, the tone and mood you want to set, how the song speaks to your relationship, and the instrumentation, you can create a processional song that’s unique and special to you. Remember, the perfect song is the one that feels right to you and your partner. With a little bit of inspiration and some careful thought, you’ll find a song that sets the perfect tone for your wedding day.
FAQ
How many songs do you choose for a processional?
Choosing the right songs for a wedding ceremony is an important decision. The processional is the moment when the wedding party makes their entrance, and it sets the tone for the entire ceremony. Couples often wonder how many songs to choose for the processional. The answer depends on a few factors and personal preference.
Most civil ceremonies will have one song during the processional. This song is usually played when the bride walks down the aisle. The processional song should be slow and beautiful, and it should have a meaningful message. The song choice can be anything from a classic wedding march to a modern love song that holds special meaning for the couple.
After the processional, there are usually several songs played during the signing of the register. This is a quiet moment when the couple signs the marriage certificate. The music during this time should be instrumental and calming. It should create a peaceful atmosphere.
After the signing of the register, the recessional song is played. The recessional marks the end and exit of the married couple. This song should be upbeat and celebratory. Couples often choose pop songs or upbeat classical music for this moment.
Generally, most wedding ceremonies will have four songs played during the processional. One song during the processional, three songs during the signing of the register and one song during the recessional. However, the number of songs that a couple chooses is up to them. Some might prefer just one or two songs during the entire ceremony.
When selecting songs for a wedding ceremony, it’s important to consider the emotions each song evokes and how they reflect the couple’s personality. The processional music should be a reflection of the bride and groom’s love story and the journey that led them to the altar to say “I do.”
What is typical wedding entrance music?
One of the most memorable moments of a wedding ceremony is when the bridal party makes their grand entrance down the aisle. And, of course, the music that accompanies this procession is an integral part of creating a beautiful, romantic atmosphere for the occasion. But what type of music is typically played during this special moment?
While there are numerous options to choose from, there is one traditional piece that is perhaps the most well-known wedding entrance music: Bridal Chorus by Richard Wagner. Often known as Here Comes The Bride, this piece of classical music is the traditional choice for the procession of the bride, and is often played on an organ. The music is grand and dramatic, perfectly capturing the anticipation and excitement of the bride’s entrance.
However, Bridal Chorus isn’t the only option for wedding entrance music. If you’re looking for something a little less traditional, there are plenty of other songs and genres that can help create the perfect atmosphere for your special day. Some popular choices include Pachelbel’s Canon in D, which is another beautiful piece of classical music, as well as modern choices like A Thousand Years by Christina Perri or At Last by Etta James.
The choice of wedding entrance music will depend on the couple’s preferences and the overall tone of the wedding. But whatever music is chosen, it should be something that evokes the love and excitement of the occasion, and provides a beautiful soundtrack for the happy couple’s entrance into their new life together.