7 Best Wedding Songs to Walk Down the Aisle: Perfect Choices for Your Big Day

Choosing the right song to walk down the aisle to can make your wedding ceremony truly unforgettable. With so many options from timeless classics to modern hits, finding the perfect tune can feel overwhelming. You want a song that suits your style and sets the tone for one of the most important moments of your life.

What makes a great wedding processional song? Whether you’re looking for something romantic, fun, or unique, the song should reflect your personality and the overall mood of your celebration. With this guide, you’ll find a list of songs that are sure to make your entrance down the aisle memorable and special.

1) “Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel

“Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel is a timeless choice for weddings. This piece of music, written in the 1600s, is renowned for its harmony and elegance.

The gentle, repeating chords create a calming effect. This makes it perfect for a wedding ceremony. As you walk down the aisle, the peaceful melody can help ease your nerves.

Many brides and grooms choose this song for its classic sound. It’s versatile and fits well at various points during the ceremony. Whether it’s for the processional or as background music, it adds a touch of refinement.

This piece is played by many different instruments. You’ll often hear it arranged for violin, cello, and piano in weddings. Each combination brings out a unique beauty in the composition.

Over the years, “Canon in D” has become a go-to wedding song all around the world. Its graceful tunes create a memorable atmosphere for your special day. If you’re looking for a piece that embodies tradition and charm, this song is an excellent choice.

Learn more about it on this Canon in D Major wedding song article.

2) “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri

“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri is a popular choice for walking down the aisle. The song became well-known from the Twilight movie series, loved for its heartfelt lyrics and gentle piano melody.

Many couples pick this song for its themes of eternal love and commitment. The lyrics express timeless romance, making it perfect for weddings.

There are different versions available, like the Piano Guys’ rendition or covers by other artists. Each offers a unique sound, so you can choose the one that fits your wedding style best.

This song’s popularity means guests will likely recognize it. It’s tender and full of emotions, setting a lovely tone for the ceremony.

3) “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles

“Here Comes the Sun” is a classic choice for walking down the aisle. Written by George Harrison, this bright and cheerful song adds a touch of joy to any wedding.

The song’s light-hearted melody and uplifting lyrics can make your entrance feel magical. The soothing acoustic guitar and gentle rhythms set a positive tone for the ceremony.

Many couples enjoy its timeless appeal. The Beatles’ music has a way of bringing people together, and “Here Comes the Sun” is no different. It’s great for both traditional and modern weddings.

For a unique twist, you can choose an instrumental version. This allows the beautiful melody to shine without lyrics, creating a calm atmosphere as you walk down the aisle.

If you love The Beatles and want a song that radiates happiness, “Here Comes the Sun” is a wonderful option. It promises to bring smiles and warmth to your special day.

You can find more about this song and its popularity in weddings here.

4) “Marry Me” by Train

“Marry Me” by Train is a beautiful choice for a wedding ceremony. The song, released in 2010, has sweet lyrics that talk about love and commitment.

Its gentle melody is perfect for creating a romantic atmosphere. The song’s simple and heartfelt message makes it a favorite among many couples.

As you walk down the aisle, the lyrics “Forever can never be long enough for me” can add a special touch to your moment. It’s a song that resonates with many and is sure to make your entrance memorable.

Consider this song if you want something modern yet timeless. It adds to the joy and emotion of your big day. Many brides and grooms have found “Marry Me” to be the perfect soundtrack for their walk down the aisle. Learn more from the article on Repeat Replay.

5) “At Last” by Etta James

“At Last” by Etta James is a timeless choice for walking down the aisle. This song was released in 1960 and has become a wedding classic. The soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics make it perfect for expressing the joy of finding true love.

When Etta James sings, her powerful voice captures the emotion and excitement of the moment. “At Last” creates a romantic atmosphere that fills the room with warmth and love. It’s no wonder that many brides choose this song for their big entrance.

You might recognize the iconic opening line, “At last, my love has come along.” These words resonate with couples who have waited for this special day. The song’s slow tempo allows you to walk down the aisle gracefully and with purpose.

For a live performance, consider having a guitarist or pianist play “At Last.” This can add a personalized touch and make the moment even more memorable. Etta James’ unforgettable voice will leave a lasting impression on everyone present.

Many couples have used this song to highlight their deep commitment and love for each other. Its popularity continues today, making it a top choice for wedding ceremonies. Give “At Last” a listen, and you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved wedding song.

For more on other wedding songs, check out this list of the best wedding songs.

6) “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole

When thinking of a magical song for your wedding entrance, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole is a wonderful choice.

This version of the song blends “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” with “What a Wonderful World,” creating a dreamy and uplifting vibe.

Israel Kamakawiwoʻole’s smooth ukulele and soothing voice transform this classic into a beautiful, modern piece. It has an island feel that adds a unique touch to your special moment.

The gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics make it perfect for walking down the aisle. It sets the tone for a serene and joyous atmosphere. The song also carries a message of hope and dreams, making your entrance even more memorable.

Listening to “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” you’ll feel calm and inspired. It’s a timeless track that resonates with many, ensuring everyone enjoys the moment. If you want a song that beautifully captures the magic of your wedding day, this is a great pick. Listen to it here.

7) “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran

“Perfect” by Ed Sheeran is a favorite choice for many couples as they walk down the aisle. This song’s romantic melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a fitting pick for such a special moment.

The lyrics speak about finding a love that’s truly suited for you. The line, “I found a love, to carry more than just my secrets,” emphasizes deep connection and commitment. As you walk towards your future spouse, these words can feel incredibly meaningful.

With its slow tempo, “Perfect” creates an emotional and memorable atmosphere. The gentle guitar and soothing vocals add to the song’s impact, making your entrance even more unforgettable.

The song’s timeless appeal ensures that it resonates with guests of all ages. Many people recognize and love this track, making it a crowd-pleaser. You can count on a few happy tears and smiles from your audience as you walk down the aisle to this beautiful tune.

For more information on Ed Sheeran wedding songs, check out this detailed guide.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Wedding Songs

When picking wedding songs, it’s important to focus on the theme and mood of your ceremony, the lyrics and their meaning, and the length and tempo of the songs.

Theme and Mood

The theme and mood of your wedding set the tone for your entire day. If your ceremony is formal, you might choose classical pieces like “Canon in D” or “Ave Maria.” For a relaxed, beach wedding, you might prefer tunes like “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”

Think about whether you want a modern or traditional feel. Mixing genres can also add a unique touch. For instance, starting with a classical piece and transitioning to a contemporary song as you walk down the aisle can create a memorable atmosphere.

Lyrics and Meaning

Lyrics matter because they convey emotions and tell a story. Choose songs with lyrics that resonate with you and your partner. For example, “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri is a popular choice due to its heartfelt lyrics about everlasting love.

Avoid songs with negative or contradictory messages. A song might have a beautiful melody but lyrics that don’t fit the occasion. Make sure every word aligns with your feelings and the journey you’re about to start together.

Song Length and Tempo

The length and tempo of a song can affect how smoothly your walk down the aisle goes. Songs that are too long may feel dragged out, while very short ones might rush your entrance.

Aim for a song that’s about 2-3 minutes long to comfortably cover the duration of your walk.

Tempo is also crucial. A song with a slow, steady beat can help you and your escort maintain a graceful pace. Songs like “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran have a balanced tempo that’s neither too fast nor too slow.

Adjusting the length of the processional or choosing a part of the song that fits the timing can make a big difference.

Unique Wedding Entrance Ideas

Creating a memorable entrance for your wedding can make your ceremony stand out. From live performances to instrumental versions of popular songs, and even creative mashups and remixes, there are many unique ways to make your entrance unforgettable.

Live Performances

Hiring live musicians or performers can elevate the ambiance of your wedding entrance. Consider a ceremony musician like a soloist or ensemble, such as a string quartet or acoustic guitarist, to play as you walk down the aisle.

Live vocals can also add a personal touch, especially if the performer sings a song that holds special meaning for you and your partner.

Another idea is to have a family member or friend perform. This can add emotion and a personal connection to the moment. Just ensure that the performer is comfortable and has rehearsed well.

Instrumental Versions

Instrumental versions of popular songs can offer a fresh and elegant take on your wedding entrance. Songs like Canon in D are timeless and recognizable, making them a good choice.

The slow pace of violins and piano can set a tranquil and romantic mood.

Creating an instrumental cover of a song that is meaningful to you can also be special. Whether it’s a current pop hit or a classic rock song, instrumental versions can give a unique twist while maintaining the essence and emotion of the original.

Mashups and Remixes

For a modern and lively entrance, consider mashups or remixes of your favorite songs. A unique mashup can blend different genres or combine parts of several songs that are significant to you. This can make your walk down the aisle both surprising and personal.

You can work with a DJ to create a custom remix. Include elements that reflect both you and your partner’s tastes in music. This approach can make your entrance feel like a celebration from the very start. It can also set the tone for a fun and energetic wedding ceremony.