For some couples, choosing music happens before they buy the ring, before they pick the venue, and before they choose their cake. For others, music is not as big of a priority.
Whether you are in the first category and you are reading this article before you have proposed to your special someone or in the second category, choosing the music one week before your wedding, we’ve got the songs for you. We’re bringing you a range of classics and fun contemporary songs that will complete your special night.
From all of us at Esperanza Ranch, we are so excited to see how your music, food, guest lists, and clothing come together to make the perfect celebration of your love. So without further ado, let’s start choosing songs.
Ceremony Classics
First, let’s find a great song to walk down the aisle. When you choose a song to walk down the aisle to, you need to find a song with a perfect pace and beautiful lyrics. You want to make sure that the song adds to, but does not distract from, your moment.
1. “Pachelbel’s Canon” aka. Canon in D, by Johann Pachelbel
If you love to lean into long-standing wedding traditions and make your guests bawl their eyes out, the Canon in D is a great choice. You will be joining the ranks of thousands of wedding parties who have walked down the aisle to the simple, sweeping melody of Canon in D. One of the fun aspects of this piece is that it gives you lots of space to riff on a tradition. For example, one can always go beyond the traditional arrangement of piano or strings and have it played on a less traditional instrument.
2. “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” by Elvis Presley
If you are a couple who likes a classic but wants to have lyrical music, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is a great song. This Presley hit is a beautiful slow song that can also make a great first-dance song. This song is also widely-covered in different genres, including more subtle instrumental versions.
3. “Come Away with Me,” by Norah Jones
Norah Jones’ soft voice is a wonderful option for couples who want a subtle song to walk down the aisle to. It has a dreamy quality that pairs well with the wide-open spaces of an outdoor wedding. This song is popular enough to be recognizable for your guests, but not overused.
First Dance Tearjerkers
Another place where it is essential to pick the perfect song is for your first dance. Many couples choose a song that they consider “their song” for their first dance. However, make sure you give your first dance song a few good listens before settling on it, to make sure it is something that your whole family will feel comfortable with. Here are some pre-vetted crowd-pleasers that are sure to bring your guests to tears.
4. “Thinking Out Loud,” by Ed Sheeran
This simple, lovely song has been a favorite for couples ever since it topped the charts when it was released in 2014. It boasts a slightly higher tempo than the songs for walking down the aisle.
5. “All of Me,” by John Legend
Another early-2010s hit, All of Me has wonderful lyrics and is remarkably easy to pick up. You will probably find your guests singing along. It touches on the beautiful parts of love as well as the tough parts.
6. “A Thousand Years,” by Christina Perri
If you’re more inclined toward a female singer, this Christina Perri song has all of the lyrical complexity you need. Bonus points, it’s a waltz, which makes it easier to dance to.
Party!
The cake is cut and now it’s time to party. Here are four songs guaranteed to make everyone (even your grumpy uncle) want to hit the dance floor.
7. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me),” by Whitney Houston
This song is a joyful pure classic. It has a very singable chorus, which always brings people together.
8. “Mambo No. 5,” by Lou Bega
Mambo No. 5 is a fun romp that is a throwback classic for so many people.
9. “Marry You,” by Bruno Mars
If you want to stay on theme with your reception songs, “Marry You” is perfect. This is also a great song for couples who want to choreograph a complicated first dance to an up-tempo song.
10. “Dancing Queen,” by ABBA
Dancing Queen is incredibly fun and popular, making it a great way to close out the night.
Whatever music you choose, Esperanza Ranch is ready to weave it into your special day. We offer a series of different wedding packages for any type of wedding you might want to have.
