Walking down the aisle is a moment charged with emotion, a pivotal step into a new chapter of your life. As you take each breath and place each foot forward, the melody that accompanies you becomes the soundtrack to this profound experience. Selecting the perfect walking down the aisle song is more than just choosing music; it’s about crafting an atmosphere, expressing your unique love story, and setting the tone for your entire wedding ceremony.
Having played at countless weddings, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of music during this special moment. I remember my own wedding day vividly – the nerves melting away as the first notes of “La Vie En Rose” and then “Can’t Help Falling in Love” filled the air, played by my own violin and guitar duet. It was magical.
To guide you in creating your own unforgettable aisle walk, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best Walking Down The Aisle Songs. These selections range from timeless classics to modern hits, each with its own unique charm and emotional resonance. To give you a true sense of how these songs can sound during your ceremony, I’ve included live performance videos by Ariana Strings. Get ready to be inspired and find the perfect melody for your grand entrance!
- “Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel:
This iconic classical piece is a perennial favorite for wedding processions, and for good reason. “Canon in D” exudes elegance and serenity, building with romantic tension and joyful release. Its timeless appeal makes it a perfect choice for couples seeking a traditional and sophisticated ambiance. It’s a versatile piece that sounds stunning with any string ensemble. If you’re curious about how it sounds across different ensembles, check out my detailed blog post comparing versions of Pachelbel’s Canon in D.
- “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri:
Alt text: String trio performing romantic wedding music at an outdoor ceremony.
Popularized by the “Twilight” saga, “A Thousand Years” has become a modern romantic classic. This ballad’s soaring melody and heartfelt lyrics about enduring love make it a deeply moving choice for your walk down the aisle. Imagine the emotional impact as a string quartet performs this piece as you make your entrance. For a glimpse, here’s our quartet warming up “A Thousand Years” for a beautiful beach wedding ceremony in Rhode Island and our violin duet performing it for a ceremony at Saint Sebastian’s Church in Middletown.
- “All of Me” by John Legend:
John Legend’s “All of Me” is a powerful anthem of unconditional love and devotion. Its raw emotion and beautiful melody resonate deeply, making it a popular and meaningful choice for walking down the aisle. Picture yourself gliding down the aisle to the soulful sounds of a violin and guitar duet playing this contemporary classic. Below is our violin and guitar duet performing it in the elegant setting of The Wadsworth Mansion. If you’d like to hear a string trio version, here’s our vibrant rendition for a cocktail hour at Aria in Prospect.
- “Wildest Dreams” by Taylor Swift:
Thanks to its feature in the hit Netflix series Bridgerton, Taylor Swift’s “Wildest Dreams” has seen a resurgence in popularity, especially for weddings. This song perfectly captures the excitement and anticipation of a wedding day, evoking a sense of fairytale romance. Walking down the aisle to “Wildest Dreams” will make you feel like true royalty.
- “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran:
Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect” has become a modern wedding staple. Its tender lyrics and gentle melody speak directly to the heart, celebrating a deep and enduring love. Our string arrangements of “Perfect” lend it a waltz-like feel, enhancing its romantic and timeless quality, ideal for a graceful walk down the aisle.
- “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles:
For couples seeking a joyful and optimistic vibe, “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles is an excellent choice. This classic song radiates positivity and hope, making it a perfect accompaniment to the joyful walk down the aisle. It also works wonderfully as a recessional song, for your walk back up the aisle as a married couple!
- “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers:
Immortalized in the movie Ghost, “Unchained Melody” is a soulful and timeless ballad that speaks of longing and deep connection. Its emotional depth and evocative melody create a poignant and romantic atmosphere, perfect for a meaningful and heartfelt walk down the aisle.
- “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley:
Elvis Presley’s iconic ballad, “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” is a timeless choice that blends nostalgia with enduring romance. Its gentle melody and sincere lyrics beautifully express the feeling of falling deeply in love, making it a classic yet contemporary option for your processional music. This was also part of my own walking down the aisle song selection, and I couldn’t have been happier with it.
- “Love Me Like You Do” by Ellie Goulding:
Ellie Goulding’s “Love Me Like You Do,” from the 50 Shades of Grey soundtrack, is surprisingly romantic and translates beautifully to string instruments. Its passionate melody and emotional intensity make it a unique and modern choice for walking down the aisle. Although the clip we have is short due to a camera mishap, it gives you a taste of its potential. Let us know in the video comments if you’d like to see a full recording!
- “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong:
Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World” evokes a sense of wonder and optimism. Walking down the aisle to this classic is like stepping into a dream, creating a heartwarming and joyful atmosphere. Its timeless message of beauty and hope makes it a truly special choice for your wedding ceremony.
- “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King:
The unforgettable melody of “Stand By Me” makes it a classic choice for couples who appreciate a soulful and enduring love song. Its message of unwavering support and devotion resonates deeply, making it a meaningful and emotionally resonant option for your walk down the aisle. Here’s our trio warming up this classic for a wedding ceremony at Bill Miller’s Castle.
- “Halo” by Beyoncé:
Beyoncé’s powerful vocals and the emotional intensity of “Halo” can bring a contemporary and dramatic flair to your aisle walk. This song is perfect for couples who want to make a grand and unforgettable entrance. Its soaring melody and themes of protection and devotion create a truly impactful moment. Video performance coming soon!
- “At Last” by Etta James:
Etta James’ soulful and sultry voice in “At Last” expresses the joy and relief of finding true love. It’s a soul-stirring and celebratory choice, ideal for couples who want to convey the culmination of their journey to finding each other. Here’s a video of us warming it up at The Riverview in Simsbury, CT.
- “La Vie En Rose” by Edith Piaf:
Alt text: Ariana Strings trio performing at a romantic outdoor wedding ceremony under a pergola.
“La Vie En Rose” was my personal choice for my own walk down the aisle, and it was absolutely perfect. This classic French song exudes romance and sophistication, creating an incredibly romantic and intimate atmosphere. My violin and guitar duet played it for my wedding ceremony at the pergola at Eolia Mansion. For an even richer sound, imagine a string quartet performing it. See our string quartet version from a Wadsworth Mansion wedding ceremony in the Rose Garden.
- “In My Life” by The Beatles:
If you’re looking for something a little different and off the beaten path, The Beatles’ “In My Life” is a wistful and timeless option. Its nostalgic melody and reflective lyrics about love and life’s journey create a thoughtful and unique atmosphere for your processional. Listen to a clip here.
- “All You Need is Love” by The Beatles:
While often recommended as a recessional song (for walking back up the aisle), “All You Need is Love” by The Beatles can also be a surprisingly joyful and uplifting choice for walking down the aisle. When played on strings, its happy and celebratory melody perfectly fits the moment, filling the air with love and optimism. Here’s our string quartet warming up this song for a wedding ceremony at The Wadsworth Mansion, Middletown, CT.
- “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen:
For a ceremony with a folk-inspired or deeply spiritual feel, “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen is a powerful and moving choice. Its soaring melody and evocative lyrics create a truly breathtaking and emotional atmosphere for your walk down the aisle.
- “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra:
Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon” adds a touch of whimsy and classic charm to your journey down the aisle. Its lighthearted and romantic melody creates a dreamy and joyful atmosphere, perfect for couples who want a touch of vintage elegance.
- “Spring Recomposed” Max Richter:
“Spring Recomposed” by Max Richter, another Bridgerton favorite, is incredibly ethereal and romantic. Its delicate and enchanting melody creates a truly magical and dreamlike atmosphere, perfect for a fairytale walk down the aisle. Here’s our quartet warming up this beautiful piece for a wedding ceremony at South Farms in Morris, CT.
- “Your Song” by Elton John:
Elton John’s classic “Your Song” is a heartfelt and sincere ballad that beautifully expresses the simplicity and purity of true love. Its timeless melody and honest lyrics make it a wonderfully romantic and meaningful choice for your walk down the aisle.
- Glasgow Love Theme from Love Actually:
The “Glasgow Love Theme” from the movie Love Actually is a modern classic that tugs at the heartstrings. Its tender and emotional melody is especially beautiful when played by a string quartet, creating a deeply romantic and cinematic atmosphere for your processional. Here is our quartet performing it at a cocktail hour at Interlaken Inn.
- Air on the G String by J.S. Bach:
J.S. Bach’s “Air on the G String” is a timeless masterpiece that evokes a sense of peace and serenity. Its heavenly melody feels like a breath of fresh air, creating a truly sublime and elegant atmosphere for your walk down the aisle. Listen to it here.
- Butterfly Waltz:
“Butterfly Waltz” is a modern contemporary classical piece that is both warm and sweet. If you’re seeking something unique and uplifting that feels effortlessly beautiful, “Butterfly Waltz” is a fantastic choice. Its gentle and graceful melody creates a romantic and enchanting atmosphere. Listen to Butterfly Waltz here.
Choosing the perfect walking down the aisle song is a deeply personal decision that will enhance the emotional impact of your wedding ceremony and create lasting memories. Whether you are drawn to classical elegance, modern romance, or timeless classics, the right melody will set the stage for your journey into marriage.
Looking for exceptional musicians to bring your wedding music vision to life? Ariana Strings specializes in creating unforgettable musical experiences for weddings throughout Connecticut and beyond.
Inquire about Ariana Strings for your wedding day today!
Happy wedding planning, and may your walk down the aisle be everything you’ve dreamed of!
Vendor credits for the featured images:
Pink floral ceremony:
Planning/Design: @laviniapaulevents
Floral Design: @oluxedesign
Photography: @leeasherphoto
Venue: @saphireeventgroup
Event Rentals: @simplisticcharm
Green and yellow Eolia Mansion wedding ceremony:
Planning & Design @sarahbrehantevents
Host @styledshootsbysarahbrehant
Coordinators @lovelacedesignevents @bridesoncloud9
Venue @harknesspark
Photographer @colleenlennehan
BTS Coverage @c10ike
Primary Video @forfearlesshearts
Floral Design @floraldesignsbyjustine @floraldesignsbymelissa
Lighting & Drapery @ryandesignsri
Beauty @upstyle.co
Stylist @thebostonbridalstylist
Linen @stradleydavidson @nuagedesigns @snassycrafter
Stationery @maxandmaidenink @somethingborrowedeventdecor
Seating Chart @twoprintinggirls
Calligraphy @bl_calligraphy
Content Creator @theluckyshare
Rentals @rentpearl @petalsplates
Gown Designer @bremelia @jesuspeiroofficial
Bridal Salon @yourdreambridal @bremelia
Accessories @jenniferbehr @annmariedesignskc
Shoes @stuartweitzman @andreawazenofficial
Veil @leaaanbelterbridal @parisbydebr
Ring boxes @thestylingreserve
Jewelry @michaelsjewelers @hannahflormanBaker @storeybookcakes
Modeling Agency @maggieagency
Models @amandamckim @britlively @kylin_carnie @thecody_smith
Groom Attire @daswaniclothiers
Photo Mats @chasingstone
Strings @ariana_strings
