Choosing wedding processional songs has been stumping couples for decades. Here's how to choose the songs for your ceremony and our top wedding processional songs for every couple.
Last updated February 5, 2024
It may seem like a relatively simple task, but choosing wedding processional songs has been stumping couples for decades.
Unlike the first dance song, which usually has significant meaning or emotional value, the music accompanying your grand entrance as you head into your wedding venue tends to be a less obvious choice and can raise dilemmas: Lyrics or no lyrics? Classical or contemporary? Upbeat or subdued? Throw in the fact that the options practically reach the point of infinity, and it’s easy to see why selecting ceremony music can lead to agonized decision-making for couples. Keep reading for our advice on how to choose your wedding processional songs.
In short: It depends. A processional can have as few as one and as many as four songs total. If you are set on one song and can find—or have someone play—it long enough for everyone to get down the aisle, there's no reason to have any more. However, a processional can also have specific songs playing while the parents and grandparents enter; groom and groomsmen enter; bridesmaids, flower girl, and ring bearer enter; and, finally, the bride or groom. And that's if you don't choose another recessional song... or recessional songs (though, at that point, we encourage against).
The wedding music you choose will set the tone for your celebration. But don't worry if you can't fit in all of your favorites. You still have your first dance, and perhaps a mother-son dance or father daughter-dance.
Like with most things, when a couple finds themselves on the hunt for the perfect processional song, they head straight to Google for some much-needed help. We’ve all been down this path a time or two; it usually turns into a giant time suck where hours of time are lost in Internet land. On top of all that, you’ll inevitably get lots of unwanted recommendations from well-meaning but pushy friends and relatives. If this starts to happen to you (or if you are already stuck on this frustrating path), our advice is to take a deep breath, back away from the search bar, and reassess.
Remember: planning your wedding day is supposed to be a fun, memorable experience…not a panic-inducing nightmare. That’s right; even deciding your processional music should be all about having a good time and enjoying the ride. Here’s how to avoid the whirlwind scenario:
Do you want the songs to be meaningful to your relationship, or would you rather choose something that strikes you in the moment? Do you want your music to fit the tone of your day, whether it be offbeat, traditional, romantic, or laid-back? Do you find yourself drawn to a certain genre, such as classical or indie? Ask yourself questions like these early on to avoid falling into the all-too-common habit of questioning your feelings as you begin browsing processional songs.
Explore options that fit the criteria you established in step one and keep a running list of songs that you adore. This will help you prevent becoming overwhelmed by countless options.
It’s your day, so if you want to walk down the aisle to a unique song pick, go ahead. It really doesn’t matter what your guests will think. Go with what makes you happiest.
Make choosing your wedding processional songs a fun thing to do with your spouse-to-be by sitting down one night with a few glasses of wine and listening to your favorites together. Trust us, there are amazing love songs out there just right for your big walk down the aisle; they’re just waiting to be discovered.
To give you an idea of the different styles of music you can use in your upcoming wedding (meaning, not just Mendelssohn's "Wedding March"), we’ve put together a list of our favorite wedding processional songs. We took a great deal of time making sure our selections were anything but cheesy, over-used, and one-dimensional. After all, not everyone is dying to walk down the aisle to “Here Comes the Bride.” Quirky, classic, sentimental, historic—all wedding ideas have a place here. So without further ado, here's wedding processional songs to inspire your search for dream-worthy wedding ceremony music.
Remember that beautiful film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice starring Keira Knightly? Well, this, our friends, is the stunning piano arrangement that comes and goes throughout the film. We appreciate the loveliness of the music most of all, but its connection to this incredible love story definitely seals the deal.
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Although the majority of songs that made our list are not often top picks, we had to include at least one song that’s been a longtime processional favorite. There are dozens of songs in this category that we could’ve chosen, but the stunning sounds of “Air” made our decision easy.
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Nothing is exactly breathtaking in the way that Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" is. The group of violin concertos is included in some of the most dreamy and iconic scenes throughout film and television: Little Women, Bridgerton, Portrait of a Lady on Fire, and more. This particular movement, Spring I, is bright and anticipatory—a thrilling way to begin your classical wedding.
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Not everyone will want their entrance song to this on the nose, but those who do are true classics lovers at heart. The song is instantly recognizable, possessing a wow-factor that's kept it high up in popularity for years. For a slight twist, don't start the song at its most iconic point. Begin a bit before that, so that moment can hit right when the bride appears at the end of the aisle.
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Whether your wedding ceremony takes place in a sprawling garden or towering church, Clair de Lune's L. 32 is the perfect song to fill the space with beauty and wonder. Guests will be in awe of this recognizable, yet not overused classic.
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Though we often conjure violin or piano tunes, the cello is not to be underestimated when it comes to processional music. This stunning instrument stands entirely alone for this cover of Bach's enthralling classic. Nevertheless, it's as climactic and awe-inspiring as a full orchestra.
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Saint-Saëns' musical suite Carnival of the Animals may be largely humorous, but The Swan takes a gorgeous and lovely turn. This cover by Yo-Yo Ma (on cello) and Kathryn Stott (on piano) greatly captures the wistfulness of a wedding ceremony.
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A more springtime counterpart to The Nutcracker's "Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy," "Waltz of the Flowers" begins with a trickling piano. It then builds to a classic melody lead by wind instruments. If you're looking for a song that's a bit upbeat without losing its splendor, this is the one for you.
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Frequenters of the ballet may opt, instead, to go straight to this noteworthy classic. "Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy" gives an instant air of regality that's perfect for stunning winter weddings and a grand wedding entrance.
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The Nocturnes, Op. 9 consist of not one, but three nocturns written for solo piano. The second is often regarded as Chopin's most famous work, with its sweet melody and satisfying twists and turns. As it goes on, it becomes more elaborate, working beautifully for processions with larger groups all leading up to the bride or groom.
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This popular Christina Perri song has nearly cemented itself as a traditional wedding anthem. We chose the version without the lyrics because it allows you to effortlessly lose yourself in the feelings that the music alone inspires. If you want to communicate grand romance through your processional song, then look no further.
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The soft and romantic style of this song always inspires us, conjuring images of that special moment when someone sees the love of their life for the first time on their wedding day.
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Nothing says "I choose you" like, "I take this magnetic force of a man to be my lover." While this song may be intended for a first dance, it works wonderfully for your walk down the aisle. Its starts off with stunning, stripped-back strings before coming in with a sweeping full band.
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A little on the unexpected side, this beautiful song by Landon Pigg tells an incredible story of falling in love at, you guessed it, a coffee shop. All romances begin in unique and special ways, so we love that this processional song gets to the heart of that unexpected moment when you first fell for your significant other.
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Fans of the hit Netflix romance Bridgerton will instantly recognize this breathtaking cover. This sweeping orchestral version of the hit song strikes an incredibly romantic and cinematic chord, building in anticipation until just after the bridge. Pro tip: Play Taylor Swift's original version at some point during your reception for a satisfying full-circle moment.
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No one writes and composes the ups and downs of love like Taylor Swift. For that reason, we're including two instrumental covers of her songs in a row. "Begin Again" tells the hopeful story of new love. Recall the beginnings of your love story with this jaw-dropping The Piano Guys rendition.
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Ah, a fairytale classic. While many Disney songs can come off a bit over-the-top, this love song is soothing enough to be a fun surprise without being distracting.
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This Elvis Presley original has long been a first dance favorite, but this contemporary cover gives it a much more intimate, stripped down feel. This song has captures hearts for many years, so go ahead let it capture a few more at your big day.
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You didn't expect us to dive into romantic music choices without mentioning Ed Sheeran, did you? The singer-songwriter sure knows how to write a lovely tune, and this is no exception. Have tissues nearby, because this one's a tear-jerker.
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Romance doesn't always need to be grand. We adore this song for its plucky strings, charming melody, and even loving lyrics. Instrumental songs may be the most popular option for processional walks, but we highly recommend this sweet song—words and all—for open, airy ceremonies.
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This classic ballad might have been named as one of most commonly used first dance songs, but we like the idea of tweaking the tradition and using it for the processional instead. It’s undeniably romantic, and the lyrics are a sweet reminder that you’ve found “the one” at last.
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Have the time of your life walking down the aisle, towards the love of your life, to this upbeat track. Though the lyrics speak to running in circles, we're willing to bet you'll have a hard time not dancing while this 50's style song plays.
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This song has greatly resurged in popularity due to its inclusion in Marvel's Avenger's: Endgame. That being said, it's plenty dreamy and glamorous to stand on its own. While some may be delighted due to the film reference, others will be in awe over the swoon-worthy style.
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What's more awe-inspiring than this dramatic proclamation of love? Jaw-dropping orchestration and vocals, should you choose to include them, ensure that each and every guest will be engrossed in your processional and ceremony.
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Any soulful ceremony processional will benefit from including "If I Ain't Got You." Those in attendance are sure to go crazy for the modern, romantic classic.
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Waltz down the aisle in style with this Dean Martin classic hit. You're guaranteed to feel more like the main characters than ever before.
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Whether or not you're hosting a Gatsby-style soiree, don't dodge the opportunity to play this song. Lana's velvet vocals and a dramatic backing track make this song an awe-inspiring addition to any processional playlist.
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One of the more popular love ballads, this song just never gets old. It's endearing, it's earnest, and it's fitting for the moment your eyes meet your partner's down the aisle.
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Ever since Serena van der Woodsen walked down the aisle (well, the staircase, in her case) to her wedding ceremony, we've been dreaming about using this powerful song in a processional.
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It's up-tempo, it's celebratory, and it repeatedly declarers, "I love you like XO, you love me like XO." We've always loved Beyoncé, so what better way to include one of her best songs in your wedding?
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All too often, classical music gets reduced to songs that were written by the world’s most famous composers—Bach, Handel, etc.—and we forget all about the many amazing artists who are creating classical pieces today. One of our favorite examples of modern classical is this breathtaking song by Jónsi. There’s just something about the melody that gives us butterflies.
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Jason Mraz’s version of this happy song is quite upbeat, but this string cover gives it a subdued quality that nicely matches the tone of the wedding processional. Plus, we love the idea that you can use this modern and well-known song without it feeling super cliché.
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Start the day off with a feel-good bang. Ray LaMontagne's "You Are the Best Thing" will have you and your wedding party beaming the entire way down the aisle.
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Ah, how fitting. Skip to 3:18 of this song for the slowed down section. That is, unless you want to keep the playful and fun tempo throughout your processional.
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We know the song. You know the song. Now introduce yourself to this beautiful, toned down cover. JJ Heller keeps every swoon-worthy word, while making the song feel even more lovely in its parred back composition.
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Sure, the walk down the aisle is usually a bit slow, but who says it has to be that way? Strut your stuff all the way down—and encourage your partner, groomsmen, bridal party, and more to do the same to this beat.
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We know, this one's a bit played out in terms of wedding party entrances and rehearsal playlists. But a sudden burst into this song at the start of your processional? Now, that's the way to start a fun celebration.
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Who else wouldn't mind hearing "And you feel like an ocean being warmed by the sun" or "Could be there’s nothing else in our lives, so critical / As this little home" while walking down the aisle? This up-tempo track makes making your way down the aisle thrilling and tons of fun.
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Kick off your wedding ceremony with a beloved feel-good classic. Fans of ABBA and Mamma Mia are sure to be smiling from ear-to-ear watching your wedding party descend down the aisle.
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Start the best wedding with a boogie down the aisle to this much loved song. Guests can even join in, clapping their hands along to the claps in the music as you and the wedding party make your way to the front of the ceremony.
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This song is definitely a unique choice, but there’s no denying that it’s totally mesmerizing and makes for a perfect processional song. The lyrics are sweet, yet simple—we don’t think it gets much better than that.
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An emotional, stripped-down guitar drives this beautiful cover. Featuring Iron and Wine's delightfully folk-style voices, this song is the ideal fit for outdoorsy wedding ceremonies.
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Iron and Wine does it again, this time with a charming original. If this song sounds familiar to you, that's because it was featured in the original Twilight movie. Typically, if a couple makes a reference to this formative movie franchise, it's by including its more popular "A Thousand Years." We adore this track as a more laid back option that'll have guests swaying in their seats.
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Coldplay may be known for hits like "The Scientist," "Fix You," and "Something Just Like This," but we prefer this acoustic cover of "Yellow" for a walk down the aisle.
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Fans of the hit show How I Met Your Mother will delight in this stunning cover of one of its most reoccurring and iconic songs. Whether or not you're familiar, this proclamation of devotion and love is a great soundtrack to have while walking towards your partner.
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The Lumineers have the ability to make countless songs with cinematic, heartfelt qualities. There's an intimacy that comes through these pounding instruments and belted lyrics that just feels relatable. More than that, "Sleep on the Floor" even features the topical lyric, "Put on your dress, yes wear something nice / Decide on me, yeah decide on us."
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"And when you’re alone for a moment / Kiss me / Whenever you want," Patrick Watson serenades in the language of love—French. This song features beautiful piano and singing to match, made for romantic moments such as this.
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Cyndi Lauper's original "Time After Time" is, to put it lightly, a gift. This acoustic cover, however, manages to make it even more fitting for the start of a wedding. Layered harmonies and crooning voices will have you listening to every word.
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Sometimes it feels like every love ballad has already been used in everyone else's weddings. If you've encountered this specific frustration, give this song a go. It's everything you want in a ceremony song—cinematic, romantic, and professing.
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Let the soft strum of a guitar and sweet lyrics lead you down the aisle. Indie couples will especially appreciate this low-key and lovely song choice.
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Film fans have no shortage of ways to include pieces of their favorite movies into their weddings. Decor, wedding attire, and even the song that plays when you walk down the aisle. The Piano Guys have crafted a gorgeous melody of Lord of the Rings songs, perfect for processions with several waves of important people.
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Admittedly, it might not be as easy to include Jurassic Park in your wedding as other films. Give a subtle reference to the classic movie with this beautiful cover.
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Whether you're getting married under a blanket of stars or simply love La La Land, "City of Stars" is a magical song choice. Plus, depending on your ceremony's mood, you can choose between the version with piano and words or the version with guitar and humming.
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Looking to include your favorite Disney song without it feeling out of place? The Little Mermaid fans will be relieved to hear this romantic rendition of the film's popular "Kiss the Girl."
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Fans of How I Met Your Mother can have this subtle reference to the show appear during their processional. It's delightful, easy on the ears, and not too distracting or obvious.
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There are plenty of songs on both Mamma Mia's soundtracks that deserve a place in your wedding or reception. While most are probably better suited for dancing, "Our Last Summer" is low-key enough to work for a walk down the aisle—while still being romantic and fun.
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Another option from this much beloved film is "When All Is Said and Done." Destination weddings in Greece and those with a Mamma Mia theme will benefit greatly from this apt reference.
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Allow us one last song from this popular musical. Nothing says "marry me" like repeatedly singing, I do, I do, I do! just before you stand in front of your loved ones and say it.
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This song is sheer romance. With a beautiful piano intro, heartfelt guitar, and powerful voices, what else could you want to hear during this special moment?
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This song from the jukebox musical Moulin Rouge! is sure to make for a wonderful spectacle. Soaring trumpets and a crooning Ewan McGregor really sell romantic lyrics like, "I hope you don't mind / That I put down in words / How wonderful life is / Now you're in the world."
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This climactic song is a part of The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical soundtrack, compiled of songs inspired by the hit Netflix series. This song, in particular, is full of romantic intensity that makes for a jaw-dropping processional.
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Talk about romance. Orpheus and Eurydice meet, build their romance, and discuss love all within this one charming song.
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This song is equally lovely, though it notably possesses a bit more weight. It, similar to the prior song, describes the meeting and love between Hades and Persephone. It also contains the show's popular motif. If you'd prefer a musical song without words, try "Epic III," which carries a very similar tune, but is instrumental.
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"Just walk beside me, love, any way the wind blows." This musical number is nothing short of perfect for couples who'd like to walk down the aisle together or at the same time. It speaks to promises of loving one-another and being there for each-other.
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Due to being a song of platonic love, this might not immediately come to mind for a processional song. Then again, it's an ideal and powerful choice to show your mutual love for your parents, spouse, and wedding party. Try not to cry at the lyric, "But I know I'm who I am today / Because I knew you."
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While La La Land isn't a stage musical, it deserves a special spot in this section due to being such a crowd favorite. Besides, who could resist this romantic and enticing piano ballad?
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You know we couldn't talk about musicals without recommending this Rent all-time favorite. Get your whole wedding party exciting to walk to the end of the aisle by selecting this well known song.
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Danielle Hope brings genuine endearment and excitement to this beloved song. For the musical couple that wants something sweet, give this version a listen.
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From "First time I heard your voice moon light burst into the room" to "I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you / I love you," this song from Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812 is the definition of swoon-worthy.
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Whether you go with the original version or film version of this song, your guests are sure to feel the love. This romantic duet revolves around a proposal, stating heart-warming lyrics from "There are so many lives I want to share with you / I will never be complete until I do" and "I don't know how anybody survives in this life / Without someone like you." Both singers dream about their future together and declare their love. Pretty topical, right?
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Create an airy, romantic ambiance with this live recording. Plucky strings and heartfelt lyrics make "the lakes" an ideal song for any outdoor setting—in a garden, mountainside, and—of course—lakeside.
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Widely known for his song "Take Me to Church," Hozier may be one of the most underrated romantic song writers. His love songs, like "Wasteland, Baby!," evoke stunning imagery and strong feelings of love—a great way to start your ceremony.
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If "Wasteland, Baby!" seems to be up your alley, consider also giving "In a Week" a listen. This song is actually a duet, also featuring Karen Cowley's vocals, adding even more romance to a whimsical, earthy track.
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The opening chords to Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" are recognizable anywhere. While the song isn't inherently romantic, this instrumental cover makes it perfectly suitable for a walk down the aisle.
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This song conjures images of countless flower petals, dramatic dips, and loving stares. Sounds like your wedding reception? Give this piano-heavy song a try.
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The love for Sleeping at Last's original version of this song is strong. That being said, this folk-y, parred back version works wonderfully for an iconic, emotional processional.
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The influx of instruments around 1:45, then strip back to one voice and a piano at 3:04, makes this song a wonderful rollercoaster of happy emotions. Guests are likely to fight back tears hearing this one during a processional.
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Ah, an indie classic. Those who were born in the nineties will get a particular kick out of this romantic acoustic song.
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Nostalgia follows wherever this song goes. This cover in particular, though, carries an especially joyful and romantic feeling suitable for your processional of loved ones.
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This indie song broke out onto the music scene with a bang, jam-packed with warmth. Play this during your processional for all of the good vibes.
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Perhaps one of the loveliest musical releases of the last year, this song expresses great love for your close friends. That being said, it can easily be interpreted as romantic (especially with a lyrical mention of 'til death do us part). With soaring instruments and vocals, it's a great pick for couples seeking a more modern number.
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Fans of Harry Styles will love giving a wink to him with this sweet, sweet song. This simple melody is sure to captivate not only your wedding party, but your guests as well.
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Let's be honest: Almost everyone adores a piano ballad duet. Especially when that ballad is accompanying you and your nearest and dearest loved ones in your processional.
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You didn't think we were done with Ed Sheeran, did you? This newer love song of his strikes an intimate mood, stripped down to just a guitar and his voice. It's perfect for a sweet stroll down the aisle towards the love of your life. "The greatest thing that I have achieved / Was four little words, down on one knee"? Come on!
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The additional choir vocals and beautiful guitar make this version of the popular song "Holy" a modern chapel wedding necessity.
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Swifties will rejoice in the chance to play Taylor Swift's newly recorded version of this wedding favorite for their processional. For double the fun, play this song again during your reception. That way, everyone has the chance to jump around and sing along (you know they want to).
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The shift in this stunningly simple song around 2:45 is perfect for a bride or groom's entrance at the end of the aisle. If you're looking for a song that can be played in its entirety, rather than having to play a different song for the final walk, this is a worthy choice.
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Sure, the lyrics in the verses of this song are a tad bit sad, but the romantic chorus more than makes up for it. "You still make me nervous when you walk in the room / Them butterflies, they come alive when I’m next to you / Over and over the only truth / Everything comes back to you." If you can, start the song at the second chorus and play it through the end for a sweet processional soundtrack.
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Our love for Adele—as well as everyone else's, it seams—is going strong. Include the singer's soulful voice and beautiful lyrics in your processional for a modern, moving moment.
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So, "Love Story" isn't exactly up your alley. No problem! With another slew of Swift's best songs being rerecorded and released last year, you have plenty to choose from. This version of "State of Grace" is intimate and romantic, ideal for a processional full of meaning.
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