Your wedding ceremony is a beautiful tapestry of moments, from the heartfelt vows to the joyous pronouncement. But as you are announced as a married couple, and share that first magical kiss, the atmosphere shifts to pure celebration. This is the recessional – your grand exit, and the perfect wedding recessional song will amplify the elation of the moment.
Choosing the right music for your recessional is about more than just picking a tune you like; it’s about setting the tone for the transition from ceremony to celebration. In diverse wedding locations, finding a song that reflects your unique style as a couple is key. Let’s explore how to select the ideal recessional wedding song to make your exit as memorable as your vows.
Finding Your Perfect Recessional Wedding Song
Selecting your recessional song should be a fun and collaborative process. Here’s a breakdown of factors to consider:
Align with Your Wedding Style
The overall style of your wedding should guide your music choices, including your recessional song.
-
For Classic Weddings: Timeless elegance calls for traditional pieces. Consider the enduring charm of “Canon in D” by Pachelbel or the stately “Wedding March” by Felix Mendelssohn. These selections resonate beautifully in traditional settings like grand ballrooms or historic churches.
-
For Modern Celebrations: If your wedding leans towards contemporary chic, your recessional song can reflect that modern vibe. Upbeat and joyful songs like “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne or the anthemic “Beautiful Day” by U2 are excellent choices for stylish, modern venues.
-
For Outdoor and Rustic Weddings: Embrace the natural beauty of your outdoor setting with songs that evoke joy and freedom. “Better Together” by Jack Johnson, with its acoustic charm, is ideal for a recessional in a garden, vineyard, or rustic barn.
Reflect Your Couple Personality
Your recessional song is a fantastic opportunity to inject your personality into your wedding. Think about what kind of vibe truly represents you as a couple.
-
Fun and Playful Couples: If you’re known for your fun-loving spirit, choose a song that gets everyone in a celebratory mood immediately. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” by Stevie Wonder is an infectious tune that will have your guests cheering as you exit.
-
Romantic and Sentimental Couples: For those who cherish romance, a song that swells with emotion is perfect. “At Last” by Etta James is a classic choice that encapsulates the deep emotion of the moment.
Consider the Tempo and Energy
The tempo of your chosen song significantly impacts the mood of your recessional.
-
Upbeat and Energetic: A faster tempo song will infuse your exit with excitement and get the party started right away. Think about songs that make you want to dance and celebrate.
-
Serene and Joyful: A slightly slower tempo can still be celebratory while maintaining a touch of serene joy. This can be perfect if you want a more graceful and heartwarming exit.
Tips for a Picture-Perfect Wedding Recessional
Your recessional is not only a symbolic walk but also a prime photo opportunity. Here’s how to make the most of it:
Coordinate with Your Photographer
Ensure your photographer is ready to capture the joy of your recessional. Discuss key moments you want photographed, like your first steps as a married couple, your smiles, and interactions with guests.
Alt text: Joyful newlywed couple shares a kiss at the start of their wedding recessional, captured by their photographer.
Pro Tip: Plan a moment to pause midway down the aisle for a kiss, a twirl, or a joyful wave. These planned pauses create fantastic photo opportunities and allow you to savor the moment.
Practice Your Recessional Walk
During your wedding rehearsal, walk through your recessional while playing your chosen song. This practice helps you and your wedding party synchronize your steps with the music and ensures a smooth, confident exit.
Collaborate with Your Wedding DJ
A professional wedding DJ is invaluable for timing your recessional music perfectly. They will ensure the song crescendos at just the right moment as you begin your walk, enhancing the emotional impact. If you haven’t booked your wedding DJ yet, explore professional services to ensure seamless music execution.
Recessional Wedding Song Playlists to Inspire You
To help you find the perfect track, here are curated Spotify playlists categorized by style:
Traditional Wedding Recessional Songs Playlist
This playlist features timeless classics that are perfect for a traditional wedding ceremony:
- “The Wedding March” – California DJ
- “Canon in D Major” – Johann Pachelbel
- “Hallelujah Chorus” – The Priests
- “Water Music Suite No. 2” – George Frideric Handel
- “Trumpet Tune” – Henry Purcell
- “Concerto in E-Flat Major K. 495” – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
- “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” – Felix Mendelssohn
- “Coronation March” – US Marine Band
… and many more.
Contemporary Wedding Recessional Songs Playlist
For a modern and upbeat exit, explore these contemporary hits:
- “Beautiful Day” – U2
- “You Make My Dreams” – Daryl Hall & John Oates
- “First Day of My Life” – Bright Eyes
- “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” – Natalie Cole
- “You’re My Best Friend” – Queen
- “All You Need Is Love” – The Beatles
- “Lucky” – Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat
- “Better Together” – Jack Johnson
… and a wealth of other contemporary favorites.
Modern Wedding Recessional Songs Playlist
If you’re looking for something current and trendy, this modern playlist is full of exciting options:
- “Love on Top” – Beyoncé
- “Sugar” – Maroon 5
- “Crazy in Love” – Beyoncé
- “Treasure” – Bruno Mars
- “Home” – Phillip Phillips
- “Lover” – Taylor Swift
- “On Top of the World” – Imagine Dragons
- “Good Life” – OneRepublic
… and many more modern chart-toppers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recessional Wedding Songs
-
What differentiates a processional from a recessional song? Processional music sets the tone as you walk towards the altar to begin the ceremony. Recessional music is celebratory and marks your exit after the ceremony, as a married couple.
-
Is it okay to choose pop songs for the wedding recessional? Absolutely! Modern pop songs bring a personal and fun element to your recessional. A song like “Love on Top” by Beyoncé is a fantastic example of a pop hit that’s perfect for a wedding exit.
-
What are popular wedding recessional song choices? Many couples are drawn to upbeat and joyful songs. Classics like “Beautiful Day” by U2 and “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” by Stevie Wonder remain popular for their celebratory energy.
-
How can I ensure my recessional is perfectly photographed? Communication is key. Work closely with your wedding photographer and videographer, informing them of your chosen song and any planned moments during the recessional, such as a kiss or a special pose.
Alt text: Wedding photographer in action, skillfully capturing the joyful recessional of a newly married couple.
- Can a wedding DJ assist in selecting the ideal recessional song? Yes, definitely. A professional wedding DJ brings expertise and can offer song suggestions that align with your wedding style, personality, and ensure perfect timing for your chosen music.
Make Your Wedding Exit Unforgettable
Your wedding recessional is your first joyful stride into married life. Choosing the perfect recessional wedding song amplifies this celebratory moment and sets the tone for the festivities to follow. Whether you opt for a traditional classic, a contemporary hit, or a modern favorite, ensure it’s a song that resonates with you as a couple and fills your exit with joy and excitement.
For expert guidance in creating unforgettable wedding moments, consider the services of experienced wedding professionals. They can help with everything from music selection to capturing every precious moment of your special day.
