Weddings traditionally have the bride marching down the aisle to meet the groom. Sometimes, the processional can include members of the bridal party or family members along the way.
When choosing the song to accompany your wedding processional, you can go for a traditional instrumental song or tune with meaningful lyrics. Read on to discover the best wedding processional songs ever.
“100 Years” by Five for Fighting
Song Year: 2003
“100 Years” is a soft rock song by John Ondrasik, also known by his stage name Five for Fighting. He was inspired by observing his children and realizing how time passes by swiftly, so we should appreciate the special moments.
“A Gift of a Thistle” by James Horner & London Symphony Orchestra
Song Year: 1995
This instrumental song from Braveheart is a beautiful example of Celtic music, so it can be a particularly great choice if you have Celtic heritage. It includes traditional Celtic instruments, such as flutes, pipes, strings, and harps.
“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
Song Year: 2011
This is a popular wedding processional song, especially among those who love the Twilight book series and movies, as it was written specifically for one of those films. The lyrics describe overcoming the initial fear of falling in love and openly expressing eternal love.
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gay featuring Tammi Terrell
Song Year: 1967
If you want an upbeat song that tells a story as your processional anthem, consider “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” The lyrics describe doing anything for love and how even a mountain could not keep those in love apart. This song has a few different versions, including one from Dianna Ross.
“All of Me” by John Legend
Song Year: 2013
John Legend wrote “All of Me” for his wife, Chrissy Teigen. The lyrics describe his unconditional love for her and how that love helps him throughout difficulties in life. This tune is a lovely choice if you want a sweeping and hopeful tune.
“All You Need Is Love” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1967
Many songs from The Beatles make a beautiful choice for a wedding processional. Whether you play the original recording or engage a musician to play an instrumental version, “All You Need Is Love” is a charming song to play as people walk down the aisle.
“Appalachian Spring” by Aaron Copeland Performed by New York Philharmonic
Song Year: 1944
“Appalachian Spring” is an instrumental song that evokes the feeling of nature waking up for Spring. The gradual development of the song beautifully echos the march down the aisle as it culminates in one of the people getting married coming down the aisle.
“Arioso” by J.S. Bach
Song Year: 1729
This ethereal song evokes hope and brightness. It is a good choice for anyone who wants a more traditional sound. There are many recorded renditions of this song, but you can also hire a musician to perform this song.
“Ave Maria,” by Beyoncé
Song Year: 2008
This interpretation of Franz Schubert’s “Ave Maria” uses pop and R&B touches to connect the classic ballad to modern ears. The lyrics describe finding self and love amid many distractions and activities. You may find it a fitting choice if you want a song with some drama and emotion.
“Beautiful Day” by U2
Song Year: 2000
This popular song may seem a little on the nose, but it’s an excellent pick if you want something upbeat for your wedding processional. The lyrics talk about hope, embracing a beautiful day, and looking at the bright future instead of just reflecting on the past.
“Best Day of My Life” by American Authors
Song Year: 2014
While some songs on this list operate via metaphor and vibes, this option is another one that explicitly describes having the best day of your life. The lyrics describe someone having a lovely day, while the melody is upbeat and cheerful.
“Can You Feel the Love Tonight” by Jack Jezzro
Song Year: 1998
This song is an instrumental rendition of the popular song from the ‘94 animated film “The Lion King.” Whether you are a Disney fan or just a fan of love-centric songs, this tune is worth considering for your processional.
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
Song Year: 1961
This song’s lyrics describe not being able to resist falling in love with someone. The lush, romantic melody suits the aesthetic of many weddings. If you want a singer other than Elvis, there are several other versions of this song to enjoy.
“Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel
Song Year: 1680
“Canon in D” is a traditional instrumental option for your processional. The song starts slowly yet hopefully and gradually adopts further complexity. This cheerful tune manages to capture joy and solemnity in equal measure.
“Celebration” by Kool and the Gang
Song Year: 1980
“Celebration” is a joyful song that is great for any celebration, particularly if you like to dance. While the Kool and the Gang rendition is a classic version, there is also a Kylie Mingue version you may enjoy.
“Cello suite No. 1” by Johann Sebastian Bach
Song Year: 1720
This instrumental cello suite is a beautiful, classical piece that provides a lilting audio backdrop to any wedding processional. Since this song has been around for a while, there are many recordings available. However, you can also choose to hire a cellist.
“Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvFH_6DNRCY
Song Year: 1905
The poetry of Debussy is always a beautiful time when you want a delicate and romantic processional song. This song is romantic and emotional. Thanks to its variety of components, it feels like it tells a story.
“Come Away With Me” by Norah Jones
Song Year: 2002
This delicate song weaves elements of jazz, folk, blues, and other genres. Romantic lyrics beckon a loved one to come with the singer on a journey and to be in love. What more do you need for a wedding processional song?
“Crazy in Love” by Béyonce feat. Jay-Z
Song Year: 2003
If you want a more rapidly-paced processional song, “Crazy In Love” is an ideal choice. The lyrics describe getting so lost in love that you feel a little off-kilter. Besides the most known version, there are also versions in which the tempo slows down.
“Dawn” by Jean-Yves Thibaudet
Song Year: 2005
“Dawn” is an upbeat piano-driven instrumental piece that sets the scene for a beautiful processional. This song is romantic and ponderous. You may know this song from the 2005 movie version of Pride and Prejudice.
“Down by the Sally Gardens” by Loreena McKennitt
Song Year: 2010
This is a classic Celtic tune from an 1889 poem by William Butler Yeats. Before it was committed to the page, it was a song part of the Irish oral tradition. If you want this song as your wedding processional, there are plenty of recordings from which to choose.
“Fur Elise” by Ludwig van Beethoven
Song Year: 1810
This is one of Beethoven’s most popular compositions, written for a solo piano. It’s a beautiful instrumental that starts with a flowing melody that speeds up, which can also perfectly describe the positive jitters of a special moment.
“Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper
Song Year: 1983
This upbeat and light-hearted track epitomizes the 80s but also the innocent simplicity of just having fun. The lyrics talk about happiness being a priority, and it makes sense to bring those sentiments into your marriage.
“Good Life” by One Republic
Song Year: 2009
This pop-rock song features relatable lyrics and a memorable melody. The lyrics describe feeling like life could be good. It’s an excellent choice since it supports the good life many people hope to find with marriage.
“Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen
Song Year: 1984
As a somewhat melancholy song, this can be a good choice for the wedding processional if you want something contemplative and multifaceted. The lyrics describe different positive and negative elements of love.
“Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1969
“Here Comes the Sun” is a soothing, pleasant song that makes a happy addition to a wedding processional. The lyrics describe seeing the sun come out after a long winter. This option is another song that is great from a recording or as an instrumental rendition.
“Higher Love” by Whitney Houston
Song Year: 1990
Whitney Houston is a popular choice when it comes to processional songs. “Higher Love” describes why love is necessary for life. It has a catchy upbeat sound and an emotional thread running through it.
“Home” by Phillip Phillips
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoRkntoHkIE
Song Year: 2013
“Home” is a guitar-driven tune that finds influence from alternative, country, and R& B music. The lyrics describe letting someone know they are not alone and can be at home. You may enjoy this choice for a wedding processional if you want a modern and perky song.
“Begin Again” by Piano Tribute Players
Song Year: 2012
This tribute to the popular Taylor Swift tune is perfect if you want something upbeat and pop-inspired, but want an instrumental version. The original song’s lyrics describe finding new love after having difficulties in relationships.
“How Does a Moment Last Forever” by Celine Dion
Song Year: 2017
Choose this song if you want a sentimental and emotional processional. The ballad evokes a good mix of nostalgia and hope that so often fits wedding music. You may also know this song from the live-action Beauty and the Beast film that came out in 2017.
“How Long Will I Love You?” by Ellie Goulding
Song Year: 2013
This love song is a delicate choice for a wedding processional. The lyrics describe eternal and unconditional love. The melody of the song is bright, hopeful, and emotional.
“I Choose You” by Sarah Bareilles
Song Year: 2013
“I Choose You” is a song written for romantic moments such as marriage. The cheerful lyrics describe choosing someone for the rest of your life. The lyrics are equally matched by an upbeat tune.
“I Want To Know What Love Is” by Foreigner
Song Year: 1984
This power ballad was written by Mick Jones of the British American band Foreigner. It features a dreamy melody and unapologetic lyrics about finding love. Moreover, Jones’ heartfelt performance is accompanied by backing vocals from the New Jersey Mass Choir, which can sound particularly breathtaking at a wedding processional.
“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9Ybsvw_0p4
Song Year: 1992
“I Will Always Love You” is another iconic love song from Whitney Houston. The lyrics evoke eternal love and commitment, two qualities essential to marriage. The sweeping melody of the song is beautiful and dramatic.
“I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by Sleeping at Last
Song Year: 2014
“I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” describes one’s journey to find the person that they love. Musically, this song is quite upbeat and has a fun marching-friendly beat.
“Is This Love” by Bob Marley
Song Year: 1978
Choose “Is This Love” if you want a special song to walk down the aisle to. The Reggae beat that is part of the song provides a unique and lulling tune to the song. Lyrics describe wanting to love someone and building a life with someone.
“Island in the Sun” by Weezer
Song Year: 2001
“Island in the Sun” is a fun song for the unique couple who wants an equally unique processional song. It is especially well-suited to a beach or island wedding.
“Islands in the Stream” by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers
Song Year: 1983
Duets, in general, are a lovely choice for wedding processionals. “Islands in the Stream” is a duet between two country music greats. The cheerful song discusses deep love and commitment between a couple.
“Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder
Song Year: 1976
“Isn’t She Lovely” is an ideal song to play as a bride walks down the aisle. Though the lyrics are originally about the birth of Stevie Wonder’s daughter, the song can easily apply to other people.
“Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjhCEhWiKXk
Song Year: 2010
This song discusses how the singer loves their partner the way they are. The pop-inspired song also contains elements of R&B and rock. As a result, the tune is ideal if you want an upbeat way to get up the aisle.
“L.O.V.E.” by Michael Buble
Song Year: 2018
“L.O.V.E” spells out different elements of the feeling and describes feeling love for only one person. This song evokes an old-school type of song delivered in Buble’s syrupy vocals. There are other versions of this song if you prefer those.
“Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac
Song Year: 1975
While “Landslide” is on the sadder side of songs, it is still a gorgeous addition to your processional. The lyrics describe coping with changes, including in romantic and familial relationships. It has an ethereal and slow pace with some movement provided by the guitar.
“Love on Top” by Béyonce
Song Year: 2013
“Love On Top” is another Beyonce song that is ideal if you want an upbeat walk down the aisle. The fast-paced tune includes lyrics about loving a partner and prioritizing each other.
“Love Someone” by Jason Mraz
Song Year: 2014
This song describes truly reciprocal love and what it feels like to love someone. Those lyrics gain compliment from the gentle and loving melody.
“Make You Feel My Love” by Adele
Song Year: 2008
While “Make You Feel My Love” is a little less wedding-centric than some of the other songs on this list, it still discusses love in a way that resonates with many listeners. The lyrics depict someone who wants someone to feel loved when they are feeling bad. As a ballad, this song is slow and dramatic.
“March” From Occasional Oratorio by Georg Friedrich Handel
Song Year: 1748
This song is a traditional choice if you want a classical processional with plenty of musical embellishment. As several centuries-old songs, there are many recordings of this song to choose from. Most wedding musicians will also know this song.
“Marry Me” by Train
Song Year: 2009
“Marry Me” is another choice that is quite explicit in its interest in marriage. The lyrics include a request for marriage, while the tune is gentle and romantic. All of these components make it a lovely processional choice.
“Marry You” by Bruno Mars
Song Year: 2010
As you can tell by the title of this song, it is quite appropriate for a processional song. The lyrics convey the singer’s desire to marry their partner. It is upbeat, yet still manages to feel like a ballad. This song is a great choice for anyone who wants a good balance of romance and energy in their processional song.
“Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
Song Year: 1990
“Over the Rainbow” is a lovely song that describes dreaming of new experiences. Even though the lyrics do not specifically refer to romantic love, they can easily extend to that area. The music is gentle and slow. There are a few other versions of this song, including the famous rendition by Judy Garland.
“Parachutes” by Coldplay
Song Year: 2000
“Parachutes” is a short song on Coldplay’s album of the same name. It is an ideal length if you have a short aisle or need a transitional song. The lyrics for this song discuss waiting always for someone.
“Perfect” by Ed Sheeran
Song Year: 2017
This song makes a lovely wedding processional song since Sheeran wrote it for his wife shortly before they were married. The romantic and warm tune compliments the loving lyrics. It tells the story of Sheeran first meeting his wife and reconnecting later in life.
“Rhythm of Love” by Plain White T’s
Song Year: 2010
“Rhythm of Love” is a well-known song that is ideal for a couple who wants an unorthodox processional song. It has a gentle yet steady beat with several layers that develop throughout the song. Its upbeat energy is a welcome addition to many weddings.
“Shallow” by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper
Song Year: 2018
This song is partially known for its role in the 2018 version of “A Star Is Born.” The power ballad is ideal for a processional song as it starts slower and climaxes somewhat dramatically. It has elements of rock and country. The lyrics in this song describe diving into a deeper part of a relationship.
“She/He Moves Through the Fair” by Sinead O’Connor
Song Year: 1997
Like many Celtic folk tunes, this song finds its origins before songs were written down. Over time, several artists covered “She Moves Through the Fair”, including Sinead O’Connor. The lyrics describe seeing someone beautiful at a fair and awaiting their wedding day.
“Something That We Do” by Clint Black
Song Year: 1997
This is a country song that delves deep into different facets of romantic relationships. The lyrics describe how maintaining a relationship comes down to actively doing relationship work. As a slow-tempo ballad, this song is a romantic processional choice.
“Stay With Me” by Sam Smith
Song Year: 2015
Even though “Stay With Me” was originally written by Smith about a man they had a one-night stand with, this song has countless other applications. The lyrics are emotional, while the melody is loving, slow, and hopeful.
“Strangers in the Night” by Frank Sinatra
Song Year: 1966
This song is a classic for a reason. The romantic melody bounces beautifully off of the flirtatious lyrics. Sinatra describes a romance that starts as a flirtation across a room and evolves into a long-term relationship.
“Sweet Disposition” by Temper Trap
Song Year: 2009
“Sweet Disposition” is a mellow song with vivid imagery, making it a poetic choice for a wedding processional. The breathy vocals describe little moments, while the tempo picks up and more layers add to the song over time.
“Take My Breath Away” by Berlin
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bx51eegLTY8
Song Year: 1986
“Take My Breath Away” is known for its role in the film “Top Gun” and as a generally romantic song. Why not play this song as each member of the couple in question takes each other’s breath away?
“Thank You for Being a Friend” by Andrew Gold
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voNEgCKzves
Song Year: 1978
While this song is primarily known for its use in the beloved sitcom, “Cheers”, it is also a good song in its own right. As a wedding processional song, this option highlights the importance of friendship.
“The Four Seasons: Spring 1” by Antonio Vivaldi
Song Year: 1725
This part of Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” is one of the most optimistic songs in the suite. The whimsical instrumental song is a lovely ride to carry you up an aisle.
“The Only Exception” by Paramore
Song Year: 2009
“The Only Exception” is an alternative pop song that captures what it feels like to experience love when you previously thought it was not possible. The lyrics describe finding someone worth breaking down boundaries for.
“The Power of Love” by Celine Dion
Song Year: 1993
“The Power of Love” is a fantastic processional song if you want something powerful yet romantic. There are several different versions of this song besides Dion.
“The Rest of Our Life” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill
Song Year: 2017
It makes sense that this song would contain plenty of love and sentimentality are given that its performers have been married for a long time. The lyrics of the song describe comfort and happiness together.
“The Wedding Song (There is Love)” by Peter, Paul & Mary
Song Year: 1971
As its title suggests, this song is specifically designed for weddings. It was originally written as a wedding gift to a fellow band member. The lyrics include descriptions of the wedded couple joining together, loving each other, and going on a journey together.
“There She Goes” by The La’s
Song Year: 1990
“There She Goes” is another ideal song you can choose for a bride’s processional. The tune of this song is nostalgic and hopeful. Meanwhile, the lyrics in this song touch on the obsession with love.
“This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole
Song Year: 1975
“This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” is a song that describes everlasting love. The tune is upbeat and fun to dance to. So, it makes a great choice if you want an energetic processional song.
“Time of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes
Song Year: 1987
This song is another beautiful duet that holds cultural cache. You may know this song from the movie “Dirty Dancing.” The lyrics describe feeling love for the first time, while the melody provides a cinematic backdrop.
“To Make You Feel My Love” by Garth Brooks
Song Year: 1997
This slow-paced song is a beautiful and emotional choice for a processional song. The lyrics discuss the singer’s devotion to the object of their affection and their desire to ensure their love is known.
“Today Was a Fairytale” by Taylor Swift
Song Year: 2010
Taylor Swift is known for her romantic lyrics and catchy tunes. This song is no exception. It describes experiencing a beautiful day with someone. Like many songs from Swift, this song is a blend of pop and country.
“Trumpet Voluntary” by Jeremiah Clarke
Song Year: 1700
This classic “Trumpet Voluntary” is a popular choice for those who want an old-fashioned processional. While the classical piece is not necessarily something you can dance to, it certainly sets a dramatic scene.
“Waiting for a Girl Like You” by Foreigner
Song Year: 1981
This ethereal song describes finding someone after looking for them for a long time. Those lyrics get beautifully balanced with a gentle soft rock melody and a steady beat.
“What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
Song Year: 1967
“What a Wonderful World” is a heartwarming song performed by the late great trumpeter and singer Louis Armstrong. With his distinct voice, Armstrong points out all the beautiful things in our world, from the colors of the rainbow to friendship and more. The lyrics remind us how much joy there is around us, setting the perfect tone for a wedding processional.
“Yellow” by Vitamin String Quartet
Song Year: 2002
This song is an instrumental version of the Coldplay favorite. The original lyrics of the song describe love and how it influences everything the singer does. Melodically, this song has some gravitas and brightness.
“You & Me” by Dave Matthews Band
Song Year: 2009
“You & Me” is a gentle choice for a processional song. The lyrics describe going on a journey with someone you love, a fitting addition to a wedding. Those lyrics complement a soft rock melody with some country influences.
“Your Everything” by Keith Urban
Song Year: 1999
“Your Everything” is a delightful country song by Keith Urban. It features a lulling tempo and sweet content. The lyrics include descriptions of love at first sight and enduring adoration. There is also some wedding imagery in it.
“Your Song” by Elton John
Song Year: 1970
This sentimental song is a romantic choice to walk down the aisle to. The lyrics contain a certain level of naivety since the song was originally written by Elton John’s writing partner when they were quite young.
Top Wedding Processional Songs, Final Thoughts
Choosing the right song can make a big difference when it comes to setting the tone of your wedding processional. Things like the lyrics, the wedding’s overall aesthetic, and the type of energy you want to project during the ceremony can all play a role in helping you decide which song is the most fitting, so take your time exploring all the great options.