Wedding Ceremony Music: Popular, Creative, and Totally Unexpected Choices

Choosing the right music for your wedding ceremony can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Over the past two decades, I’ve had the pleasure of performing at hundreds of weddings, and one thing has become clear: couples want a mix of timeless classics, modern favorites, and sometimes, just a little fun and unexpected flair. In this post, I’ll walk you through the most popular songs from the past couple of years for each part of the ceremony, plus some creative and unusual picks that have made weddings unforgettable.

Whether you’re looking for something traditional or totally unique, there’s inspiration here for you.

Walking Down the Aisle: Bridal Party and Parents
The bridal party’s processional sets the tone for the ceremony. In most weddings I’ve played, the classic Canon in D by Pachelbel reigns supreme. Its elegant, flowing strings create a timeless atmosphere, perfect for the bridal party and parents. For couples who want something similar but slightly different, Trumpet Tune by Purcell or Jesu, Joy of Mans Desire by J.S. Bach.

For a modern, emotional touch, songs like You Are the Reason by Calum Scott or Ocean Eyes by Billie Eilish have become popular choices. They carry a heartfelt, cinematic vibe that works well for intimate ceremonies.

And then there are the couples who want a little humor or nostalgia, yes, I’ve performed Baby Shark, the Pokemon Theme, and even It’s Corn as entrance music. While these choices might raise a few eyebrows, they’re memorable and totally personal. If you want to lean into this playful side, you could also try In Da Club or Turn Down for What for your “beer squad” or fun entrance songs.

The Bride’s Entrance
Over the past two years, the most requested song has been A Thousand Years by Christina Perri. Its gentle build and soaring chorus make it perfect for those few minutes as all eyes are on the bride. Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley is close behind as the most requested song for an entrance song. 

If you’re looking for something modern and slightly different, Young and Beautiful by Lana Del Rey or Ordinary by Alex Warren have become trendy favorites. For a real showstopper, I’ve also performed bridal entrances to Halo Theme Song, Little Mermaid Main Title, and even Video Game music themes, which are unexpected but unforgettable.

Pro tip: Consider the mood you want to set. Do you want something cinematic and emotional, or more whimsical and fun? You can always mix styles. For example, start with a soft instrumental and transition into a song with lyrics as the bride approaches.

Mid-Ceremony / Candle Lighting / Unity Ceremonies
The mid-ceremony music often accompanies meaningful rituals, like candle lighting, sand ceremonies, or wine box moments. These songs are usually more intimate and emotional.

Some popular choices include:

• Growing Old With You by Restless Road
• By My Side by Brad Paisley
• Here and Now by Luther Vandross
• Bloom by The Paper Kites
• Dance With Me by Brett Young

When selecting music for rituals, think about the tone you want: soft and reflective, uplifting, or whimsical? You can also choose songs that tie to your relationship story, maybe a song you both love or something meaningful from your favorite movie or video game. I recommend throwing in your "first dance" song here which can create a connection between the ceremony and reception. 

Recessional / Exit Songs
The exit is your first walk together as a married couple so it should feel joyful, celebratory, and energetic! The most popular songs I’ve performed over the last two years include:

• This Will Be (Everlasting Love) – classic, upbeat, and celebratory
• Marry You by Bruno Mars – fun, modern, and instantly recognizable
• Can’t Take My Eyes Off You – classic, romantic, and crowd-pleasing

Other popular picks:

• Best Day of My Life by American Authors
• Somewhere Over the Rainbow
• Viva La Vida by Coldplay

Trendy or contemporary choices:

• Birds of a Feather by Billie Eilish
• Iris by Goo Goo Dolls
• Love Me Like You Do by Ellie Goulding

Unexpected or non-traditional:

• Club Tropicana by Wham!
• Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater Theme
• Hikari from Super Smash Bros Ultimate
• ​Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley

If you want to make it even more fun, consider building a medley. Starting with a classic and transitioning into a modern favorite, or even a song with a fun beat that gets your guests clapping.

Putting It All Together: Choosing Your Wedding Music

When planning your ceremony, think about these key moments:

Processional: Bridal party and bride entrance: classic or modern, emotional or whimsical.

Mid-Ceremony: Candle lighting, sand/wine box, unity ceremonies: intimate and meaningful.

Recessional / Exit: Celebration! Upbeat, joyful, memorable.

Tip: Don’t feel limited to one style. Many couples mix traditional, trendy, and playful music. For example, a bridal party can walk in to Canon in D, the bride can enter to A Thousand Years, and the exit can be something fun like Marry You.

Don’t be afraid to be creative! Video game themes, viral hits, or quirky songs like It’s Corn can make your wedding unforgettable. Your ceremony should feel personal, meaningful, and joyful for you and your guests.

Whether you lean into classic romance, modern trends, or out-of-the-box fun, the right music can make your wedding ceremony magical. From the first steps down the aisle to your joyful exit, music sets the mood, highlights emotion, and creates memories that last a lifetime.

Take inspiration from these popular and unique choices, but ultimately, choose the songs that speak to you as a couple. After all, your wedding is about your love story and your music should tell it too.​

List of most common tunes for ceremony processionals

1. Canon in D – Pachelbel - Most common for bridal party / family entrances
2. A Thousand Years – Christina Perri - Most common for bride entrance
3. Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley / Kina Grannis version - Popular for bride entrance or groom/parents
4. Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles -  often for bridal party or parents
5. Enchanted – Taylor Swift 
6. You Are the Reason – Calum Scott
7. Young and Beautiful – Lana Del Rey
8. Ordinary – Alex Warren
9. Butterfly Waltz
10. Trumpet Tune – Purcell

List of most common tunes for the recessional (i.e. exit music)

1. This Will Be (Everlasting Love)
2. Marry You – Bruno Mars
3. Can’t Take My Eyes Off You
4. Best Day of My Life – American Authors
5. Somewhere Over the Rainbow
6. Viva La Vida – Coldplay
7. Iris – Goo Goo Dolls
8. Love Me Like You Do – Ellie Goulding
9. Birds of a Feather – Billie Eilish
10. Happy Together – The Turtles