The 155 Best Songs to Walk Down the Aisle To

There are loads of songs that play throughout your wedding day, from the tunes that welcome your guests before the ceremony to the absolute bangers that play throughout the night at your reception. Music helps set the scene, builds romance and excitement, and complements what is already an absolutely beautiful day.

When you think of wedding music, one of the first songs you might think of is the one you walk down the aisle to. And for good reason. It’s the song playing when the two of you meet eyes from each end of the aisle as your guests watch on. It’s a song you’ll both remember forever and will always hold a special place in your hearts.

Needless to say, it’s a pretty big decision. There are so many wonderful pieces of music out there, that you might not know where to start. Or, you might not have a clue about the sort of songs you can walk down the aisle to at all.

So, we’ve created this list of the best songs to accompany you down the aisle to help you make this crucial decision. We’ve included everything from the classics through to alternative contemporary hits, so you can walk down the aisle to a song that perfectly fits with you and your theme for the big day.

Why is choosing a wedding aisle song important?

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The song you walk down the aisle to is so much more than just background music. It sets the scene for one of the biggest moments of your life and helps establish the tone for the entire day. It’s usually one of the standout moments of any wedding, so you’re probably incredibly keen to make the right decision about which song you should have during your big moment.

In all honesty, there’s no right song to walk down the aisle to – only the song that’s right for you. But, what that means can vary from couple to couple. To help narrow it down for you, think about the following points and see how certain songs might fit into that.

  • How does the song reflect your love story? It might be the lyrics, the notes, the tune or something else.
  • How does the song fit with the tone of the ceremony? You might be going for traditional, joyful, religious, or have a specific theme.
  • Does the song have a strong emotional connection? Many songs you walk down the aisle to are about love, but it doesn’t necessarily need to be about love for it to work.
  • Does rhe song reflect your personality? Choosing a song is a great opportunity to have it express who you are.

How long should a wedding aisle song be?

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The length of the song you walk down the aisle to doesn’t need to be too long, but the minimum length will depend on the size of your venue.

Most songs are around three to four minutes long, which is usually long enough. But, if you have a large wedding and therefore a large venue, think about how long this walk might take and if your chosen song will be long enough.

You may also choose to have a separate song playing for the bridal party. If not, this time should also be considered when making your choice.

If you’re keen to use a shorter song, there’s no harm in making edits to make sure it’s more than long enough. Or, if there’s a particular section of a song you like, you could edit it down so your favourite part definitely features.

Can you walk down the aisle to a song with lyrics?

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Yes, it’s becoming more common for couples to choose a song with lyrics. So, if this is something you’d like to do, then you should definitely go for it! Traditionally, instrumental songs are used, but songs with lyrics can have a fantastic emotional connection and can ensure a memorable impact.

If you are going with a song with lyrics, make sure you fully understand the message behind them before making your choice. You ideally want something with a romantic or positive meaning, which reflects the joy of your big moment. For that reasons, you might not want to pick something that has a darker meaning or has swearing or something controversial in there. You want the focus of the moment to be on you, not on the music per se, after all!

Should you have live or prerecorded music to walk down the aisle to?

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Both live and prerecorded music can contribute to a beautiful and memorable wedding ceremony. There are advantages to both, of course.

Advantages of live music to walk down the aisle to:

  • Unique and memorable
  • Creates an intimate and personal atmosphere
  • Authentic and beautiful 
  • Flexible and adaptable

Advantages of pre-recorded music to walk down the aisle to:

  • Consistent and reliable
  • A wide variety of songs of any style and genre
  • Affordable
  • Less setup and coordination

Whichever you choose, it’s important to remember that there isn’t a right or wrong decision. It totally depends on your preferences, the venue and your budget, and which is most in keeping with your vision for the day.

155 best songs you can walk down the aisle to

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Are you keen to start hunting for the perfect song to walk down the aisle to at your wedding? Here are 155 of the best songs to choose from across several different genres, which should give you a great place to start.

Classical favourites

  1. Bridal Chorus (“Here Comes the Bride”) – Richard Wagner
  2. Canon in D – Johann Pachelbel
  3. Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring – Johann Sebastian Bach
  4. Meditation from Thaïs – Jules Massenet
  5. Water Music Suite: Air – George Frideric Handel
  6. Trumpet Voluntary – Jeremiah Clarke
  7. Air on the G String – Johann Sebastian Bach
  8. Largo (from Xerxes) – George Frideric Handel
  9. Rondeau – Jean-Joseph Mouret
  10. Spring (from The Four Seasons) – Antonio Vivaldi
  11. Wedding March – Felix Mendelssohn
  12. Clair de Lune – Claude Debussy
  13. Minuet in G Major – Johann Sebastian Bach
  14. Ave Maria – Franz Schubert
  15. Salut d’Amour – Edward Elgar
  16. The Swan – Camille Saint-Saëns
  17. Liebestraum No. 3 – Franz Liszt
  18. Nocturne in E-flat Major, Op. 9 No. 2 – Frédéric Chopin
  19. Panis Angelicus – César Franck
  20. Adagio in G Minor – Tomaso Albinoni
  21. Ode to Joy – Ludwig van Beethoven
  22. Prelude (from Cello Suite No. 1) – Johann Sebastian Bach
  23. Flower Duet – Léo Delibes
  24. Pavane – Gabriel Fauré
  25. Gymnopédie No. 1 – Erik Satie
  26. Traumerei – Robert Schumann
  27. Waltz of the Flowers – Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
  28. Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy – Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
  29. Fantaisie-Impromptu – Frédéric Chopin
  30. Sheep May Safely Graze – Johann Sebastian Bach
  31. Lakmé: El Dúo de la Flor – Mado Robin
  32. Prelude in C Major – Johann Sebastian Bach
  33. Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini – Sergei Rachmaninoff
  34. Boléro – Maurice Ravel
  35. Valse Sentimentale – Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Modern classics and film scores

  1. The Ludlows – James Horner (Legends of the Fall)
  2. Across the Stars – John Williams (Star Wars)
  3. My Heart Will Go On (Instrumental) – James Horner (Titanic)
  4. Married Life – Michael Giacchino (Up)
  5. Glasgow Love Theme – Craig Armstrong (Love Actually)
  6. Love Theme from Romeo and Juliet – Nino Rota
  7. Pride and Prejudice Theme – Dario Marianelli
  8. Somewhere in Time – John Barry
  9. Theme from The Notebook – Aaron Zigman
  10. When You Wish Upon a Star – Cliff Edwards (Disney’s Pinocchio)

Religious songs

  1. Amazing Grace – Traditional
  2. Be Thou My Vision – Traditional
  3. How Great Thou Art – Carl Boberg
  4. Abide With Me – William Henry Monk
  5. In Christ Alone – Keith Getty & Stuart Townend
  6. The Lord Is My Shepherd – Traditional
  7. Great Is Thy Faithfulness – Thomas Chisholm
  8. Ave Verum Corpus – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
  9. On Eagle’s Wings – Michael Joncas
  10. Hallelujah Chorus – George Frideric Handel

Cultural songs

  1. Greensleeves – Traditional English
  2. Scarborough Fair – Traditional English
  3. Danny Boy – Traditional Irish
  4. Highland Cathedral – Traditional Scottish
  5. Hava Nagila – Traditional Jewish
  6. Shenandoah – Traditional American
  7. Erev Shel Shoshanim – Traditional Hebrew
  8. Arirang – Traditional Korean
  9. Kalinka – Traditional Russian
  10. Wedding Tarantella – Traditional Italian

Romantic songs with lyrics

  1. ‘A Thousand Years’ – Christina Perri

Key lyrics: ‘I have died every day waiting for you / Darling, don’t be afraid, I have loved you for a thousand years.’

  1. ‘At Last’ – Etta James

Key lyrics: ‘At last, my love has come along / My lonely days are over, and life is like a song.’

  1. ‘Make You Feel My Love’ – Adele

Key lyrics: ‘I could hold you for a million years / To make you feel my love.’

  1. ‘Unchained Melody’ – The Righteous Brothers

Key lyrics: ‘Oh, my love, my darling / I’ve hungered for your touch a long, lonely time.’

  1. ‘Perfect’ – Ed Sheeran

‘I found a love, to carry more than just my secrets / To carry love, to carry children of our own.’

  1. ‘Your Song’ – Elton John

Key lyrics: ‘I hope you don’t mind that I put down in words / How wonderful life is while you’re in the world.’

  1. ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ – Elvis Presley

Key lyrics: ‘Take my hand, take my whole life too / For I can’t help falling in love with you.’

  1. ‘I Choose You’ – Sara Bareilles

Key lyrics: ‘Tell the world that we finally got it all right / I choose you.’

  1. ‘Thinking Out Loud’ – Ed Sheeran

Key lyrics: ‘Take me into your loving arms / Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars.’

  1. ‘You Are the Reason’ – Calum Scott ft. Leona Lewis

Key lyrics: ‘I’d climb every mountain / And swim every ocean / Just to be with you.’

  1. ‘All of Me’ – John Legend

Key lyrics: ‘All of me loves all of you / Love your curves and all your edges, all your perfect imperfections.’

  1. ‘Marry Me’ – Train

Key lyrics: ‘Forever can never be long enough for me / To feel like I’ve had long enough with you.’

  1. ‘Everything’ – Michael Bublé

Key lyrics: ‘And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times / It’s you, it’s you, you make me sing.’

  1. ‘Speechless’ – Dan + Shay

Key lyrics: ‘You already know that you’re my weakness / After all this time, I’m just as nervous.’

  1. ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’ – James Arthur

Key lyrics: ‘I’m gonna love you ’til my lungs give out / I promise ’til death we part like in our vows.’

  1. ‘Lucky’ – Jason Mraz ft. Colbie Caillat

Key lyrics: ‘Lucky I’m in love with my best friend.’

  1. ‘How Long Will I Love You’ – Ellie Goulding

Key lyrics: ‘How long will I love you? / As long as stars are above you.’

  1. ‘I’m Yours’ – Jason Mraz

Key lyrics: ‘But I won’t hesitate no more, no more / It cannot wait, I’m yours.’

  1. ‘Love Someone’ – Lukas Graham

Key lyrics: ‘Cause you still look perfect as days go by / Even the worst ones, you make me smile / I’d stop the world if it gave us time.’

  1. ‘You’re Still the One’ – Shania Twain

Key lyrics: ‘You’re still the one I run to / The one that I belong to.’

Alternate versions of popular songs

  1. Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley (Piano Version)
  2. A Thousand Years – Christina Perry (String Quartet)
  3. All of Me – John Legend (Violin Instrumental)
  4. Perfect – Ed Sheeran (Piano and Cello)
  5. Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwoʻole (Ukulele and Violin)
  6. Marry Me – Train (Acoustic Guitar Version)
  7. Hallelujah – Leonard Cohen (Harp Instrumental)
  8. I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston (Flute)
  9. Kiss Me – Sixpence None the Richer (Acoustic Guitar)
  10. Fields of Gold – Sting (Piano Cover)
  11. Imagine – John Lennon (Classical Piano Version)
  12. Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol (String Quartet)
  13. Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles (Classical Guitar)
  14. You Are the Reason – Calum Scott (Violin and Piano)
  15. Love Story – Taylor Swift (String Quartet)
  16. Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran (Piano Solo)
  17. Sweet Child O’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses (Harp Instrumental)
  18. I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing – Aerosmith (Piano and Violin)
  19. Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton (Acoustic Instrumental)
  20. The Scientist – Coldplay (String Quartet)
  21. Shallow – A Star is Born soundtrack (Cello and Piano)
  22. True Colors – Cyndi Lauper (Classical Guitar)
  23. Forever Young – Alphaville (Violin Cover)
  24. Hoppipolla – Sigur Rós (Piano Cover)
  25. Yellow – Coldplay (Acoustic Version)

Operatic songs

  1. O Mio Babbino Caro – Giacomo Puccini
  2. Flower Duet – Léo Delibes
  3. Nessun Dorma – Giacomo Puccini
  4. The Prayer – Andrea Bocelli & Celine Dion
  5. Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana – Pietro Mascagni
  6. Barcarolle – Jacques Offenbach
  7. La Donna è Mobile – Giuseppe Verdi
  8. Time to Say Goodbye – Andrea Bocelli & Sarah Brightman
  9. Marche Militaire – Franz Schubert
  10. Mon Coeur S’Ouvre à ta Voix – Camille Saint-Saëns

Alternative choices

  1. First Day of My Life – Bright Eyes

Key lyrics: ‘Yours was the first face that I saw / I think I was blind before I met you.’

  1. Sea of Love – Cat Power

Key lyrics: ‘Come with me, my love / To the sea, the sea of love.’

  1. Home – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

Key lyrics: ‘Home is wherever I’m with you.’

  1. Bloom – The Paper Kites

Key lyrics: ‘Can I be close to you?’

  1. Such Great Heights – Iron & Wine

Key lyrics: ‘They will see us waving from such great heights / Come down now, they’ll say.’

  1. The Only Exception – Paramore

Key lyrics: ‘You are the only exception.’

  1. Skinny Love – Bon Iver

Key lyrics: ‘And I told you to be patient / And I told you to be fine.’

  1. Flightless Bird, American Mouth – Iron & Wine

Key lyrics: ‘Have I found you? / Flightless bird, jealous, weeping.’

  1. Fade Into You – Mazzy Star

Key lyrics: ‘Fade into you / Strange you never knew.’

  1. Ho Hey – The Lumineers

Key lyrics: ‘I belong with you, you belong with me / You’re my sweetheart.’

  1. Heartbeats – José González

Key lyrics: ‘One night of magic rush / The start, a simple touch.’

  1. Yellow – Coldplay

Key lyrics: ‘Look at the stars, look how they shine for you.’

  1. Somewhere Only We Know – Keane

Key lyrics: ‘Oh, simple thing, where have you gone? / I’m getting tired, and I need someone to rely on.’

  1. I Will Follow You Into the Dark – Death Cab for Cutie

Key lyrics: ‘If heaven and hell decide that they both are satisfied / Illuminate the “no”s on their vacancy signs.’

  1. Sweet Disposition – The Temper Trap

Key lyrics: ‘A moment, a love, a dream, a laugh / A kiss, a cry, our rights, our wrongs.’

  1. There Is a Light That Never Goes Out – The Smiths

Key lyrics: ‘And if a double-decker bus crashes into us / To die by your side is such a heavenly way to die.’

  1. Lover – Taylor Swift

Key lyrics: ‘Can I go where you go? / Can we always be this close forever and ever?’

  1. Electric Feel – MGMT

Key lyrics: ‘You can feel it in your mind, oh, you can do it all the time / Plug it in and change the world.’

  1. I Wanna Be Yours – Arctic Monkeys

Key lyrics: ‘I wanna be your vacuum cleaner / Breathing in your dust.’

  1. Joy of My Life – Chris Stapleton

Key lyrics: ‘I tiptoed in the room / I know you got to have your rest / She says, Come lay beside me / I been waitin’ since you left.’

Indie songs

  1. Turning Page – Sleeping At Last

Key lyrics: ‘Every kiss is a cursive line / Every touch is a redefining phrase.’

  1. Holocene – Bon Iver

Key lyrics: ‘And at once, I knew I was not magnificent / High above the highway aisle.’

  1. You and Me – Lifehouse

Key lyrics: ‘’Cause it’s you and me / And all of the people with nothing to do / Nothing to lose.’

  1. All My Days – Alexi Murdoch

Key lyrics: ‘Well I have been searching all of my days / All of my days.’

  1. The Luckiest – Ben Folds

Key lyrics: ‘That I am / I am / I am / The luckiest.’

  1. Ends of the Earth – Lord Huron

Key lyrics: ‘To the ends of the earth, would you follow me? / There’s a world that was meant for our eyes to see.’

  1. Love Like This – Kodaline

Key lyrics: ‘Running through the heat, heartbeat / You shine like silver in the sunlight / You light up my cold heart.’

  1. You Make It Easy – Jason Aldean

Key lyrics: ‘And I swear, God made you for me.’

  1. I’ll Be – Edwin McCain

Key lyrics: ‘And I’ll be better when I’m older / I’ll be the greatest fan of your life.’

  1. Say You Love Me – Jessie Ware

Key lyrics: ‘Say you love me to my face / I need it more than your embrace.’

  1. Can’t Take My Eyes Off You – Lauryn Hill

Key lyrics: ‘You’re just too good to be true / Can’t take my eyes off of you.’

  1. She Is Love – Parachute

Key lyrics: ‘She is love, and she is all I need.’

  1. Let My Love Open the Door – Pete Townshend

Key lyrics: ‘Let my love open the door / To your heart.’

  1. Harvest Moon – Neil Young

Key lyrics: ‘When we were lovers / I loved you with all my heart.’

  1. Come Away With Me – Norah Jones

Key lyrics: ‘Come away with me / And I will write you a song.’

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The 200 Best Wedding First Dance Songs

Your wedding day is full of amazing music. From the song you walk down the aisle to, right through to the last song played at the disco at the end of a fun-filled night, there are so many songs that play throughout your special day.

But, there’s perhaps no song more important than the one that plays during your first dance. Your first dance is hugely symbolic and represents the two of you coming together as one. It’s also usually one of the first dances of the entire wedding reception, and is a sign that it’s time for everyone to get up and join you (after watching you and taking pictures while crying, of course).

But, what makes for a good first dance song? Should it be romantic and lovey-dovey, or can it be something upbeat and fun?

In this guide, we’ll run through everything that goes into the perfect wedding first dance song. We’ll also offer you 200 suggestions for the best first dance song, to help you make the all-important decision as to what you should choose for this massive moment in your big day.

What makes for the perfect first dance song?

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The perfect first dance song can be many things. But, the most important thing is that it’s special to the two of you. If you’re not quite sure what that looks like for you, here are a few things to think about:

  • Emotional significance: Does the song resonate with you? Was it perhaps something you both listened to while you were dating and as your romance blossomed?
  • Lyrics: Are the lyrics special and do they represent your relationship? Songs with lyrics about love are the most common type of first dance song.
  • Tempo and rhythm: The most common choice of first dance song is something slower and more romantic (but some couples have been known to have fun by dancing to something upbeat).
  • Danceability: Whether you’re an experienced dancer or not, does the song lend itself well to your dancing ability?
  • Timelessness or trendiness: Is the song something that’s timeless, or will it be forgotten about over time?
  • Length: Make sure the song isn’t too long, because you might get tired of dancing by the 34th verse of an epic ballad.

Can upbeat songs work as a first dance song?

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Yes, an upbeat song can 100% work as a great first dance song, and they have grown in popularity in recent years. It’s a brilliant way to add a little energy and uniqueness to your first dance, especially if you’re not a fan of slower romantic songs.

There are no rules that say your first dance has to be a slow one. The only thing to bear in mind is, do you have the dancing prowess needed to dance to a high-tempo song with your significant other? You don’t exactly have to be a couple who are set for the next series of Strictly, but you should be at least semi-confident to throw some solid moves while all your guests watch on. It’s also the perfect way to kick off the party and get everyone excited to start throwing some shapes of their own once you’ve had your special moment together.

What is the most popular first dance wedding song?

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The most popular first dance wedding song changes regularly, depending on what artists are topping the charts at the time and whether any older songs have come back into fashion.

In recent years, songs like ‘All of Me’ by John Legend, ‘You Are the Best Thing’ by Ray LaMontagne, ‘At Last’ by Etta James  and ‘Thinking Out Loud’ by Ed Sheeran have all been consistently popular.

In 2024, the most popular first dance songs were:

  1. ‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’ – Elvis Presley
  2. ‘Perfect’ – Ed Sheeran
  3. ‘Stand By Me’ – Ben E. King
  4. ‘The One’ – Kodaline
  5. ‘Lover’ – Taylor Swift

To discover what other songs were the most popular first dance choices at the moment, read our guide to the top first dance songs of 2024.

200 of the best wedding first dance songs

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Excited to choose the song you and your other half will dance to for the first time at your wedding? Here are 200 suggestions for romantic and meaningful songs, so the tune you have your first dance to can be something truly special.

80 romantic first dance songs

  1. ‘Perfect’ – Ed Sheeran

‘I found a love, to carry more than just my secrets / To carry love, to carry children of our own.’

 

  1. ‘At Last’ – Etta James

Key lyrics: ‘At last, my love has come along / My lonely days are over, and life is like a song.’

 

  1. ‘Make You Feel My Love’ – Adele

Key lyrics: ‘I could hold you for a million years / To make you feel my love.’

 

  1. ‘All of Me’ – John Legend

Key lyrics: ‘All of me loves all of you / Love your curves and all your edges, all your perfect imperfections.’

 

  1. ‘A Thousand Years’ – Christina Perri

Key lyrics: ‘I have died every day waiting for you / Darling, don’t be afraid, I have loved you for a thousand years.’

 

  1. ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ – Elvis Presley

Key lyrics: ‘Take my hand, take my whole life too / For I can’t help falling in love with you.’

 

  1. ‘Thinking Out Loud’ – Ed Sheeran

Key lyrics: ‘Take me into your loving arms / Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars.’

 

  1. ‘Unchained Melody’ – The Righteous Brothers

Key lyrics: ‘Oh, my love, my darling / I’ve hungered for your touch a long, lonely time.’

 

  1. ‘You Are the Best Thing’ – Ray LaMontagne

Key lyrics: ‘You are the best thing that’s ever been mine.’

 

  1. ‘I Won’t Give Up’ – Jason Mraz

Key lyrics: ‘I won’t give up on us / Even if the skies get rough.’

 

  1. ‘L-O-V-E’ – Nat King Cole

Key lyrics: ‘L is for the way you look at me / O is for the only one I see.’

 

  1. ‘Endless Love’ – Diana Ross & Lionel Richie

Key lyrics: ‘My love, there’s only you in my life / The only thing that’s bright.’

 

  1. ‘Your Song’ – Elton John

Key lyrics: ‘I hope you don’t mind that I put down in words / How wonderful life is while you’re in the world.’

 

  1. ‘The Way You Look Tonight’ – Frank Sinatra

Key lyrics: ‘Yes, you’re lovely, with your smile so warm / And your cheeks so soft.’

 

  1. ‘First Day of My Life’ – Bright Eyes

Key lyrics: ‘This is the first day of my life / I’m glad I didn’t die before I met you.’

 

  1. ‘From This Moment On’ – Shania Twain

Key lyrics: ‘From this moment, life has begun / From this moment, you are the one.’

 

  1. ‘My Person’ – Spencer Crandall

Key lyrics: ‘You’re my person, my heartbeat, my slow dance / My Sunday morning sipping coffee in bed.’

 

  1. ‘You & Me’ – Lifehouse

Key lyrics: ‘You and me and all other people / And I don’t know why I can’t keep my eyes off of you.’

 

  1. ‘Forever After All’ – Luke Combs

Key lyrics: ‘They say nothing lasts forever, but they ain’t seen us together.’

 

  1. ‘Everything’ – Michael Bublé

Key lyrics: ‘And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times / It’s you, it’s you, you make me sing.’

 

  1. ‘Come Away With Me’ – Norah Jones

Key lyrics: ‘Come away with me and we’ll kiss / On a mountaintop.’

 

  1. ‘Better Together’ – Jack Johnson

Key lyrics: ‘It’s always better when we’re together.’

 

  1. ‘Have I Told You Lately’ – Van Morrison

Key lyrics: ‘Have I told you lately that I love you? / Have I told you there’s no one else above you?’

 

  1. ‘I Get to Love You’ – Ruelle

Key lyrics: ‘I get to love you, it’s the best thing that I’ll ever do.’

 

  1. ‘All My Life’ – K-Ci & JoJo

Key lyrics: ‘All my life, I prayed for someone like you / And I thank God that I finally found you.’

 

  1. ‘The Luckiest’ – Ben Folds

Key lyrics: ‘What if I’d been born fifty years before you / In a house on the street where you live?’

 

  1. ‘Falling Like the Stars’ – James Arthur

Key lyrics: ‘I swear to God, when I come home / I’m gonna hold you so close.’

 

  1. ‘Stand by Me’ – Ben E. King

Key lyrics: ‘So darling, darling, stand by me / Oh, stand by me.’

 

  1. ‘To the Moon and Back’ – Luke Bryan

Key lyrics: ‘I love you to the moon and back / So glad you gave me your heart to have.’

 

  1. ‘Forever’ – Ben Harper

Key lyrics: ‘Not talking ’bout a year / No, not three or four / I don’t want that kind of forever in my life anymore.’

 

  1. ‘For You’ – Kenny Lattimore

Key lyrics: ‘For you, I give a lifetime of stability.’

 

  1. ‘By Your Side’ – Sade

Key lyrics: ‘You think I’d leave your side, baby? / You know me better than that.’

 

  1. ‘Speechless’ – Dan + Shay

Key lyrics: ‘You already know that you’re my weakness / After all this time, I’m just as nervous.’

 

  1. ‘Marry Me’ – Train

Key lyrics: ‘Forever can never be long enough for me / To feel like I’ve had long enough with you.’

 

  1. ‘I Choose You’ – Sara Bareilles

Key lyrics: ‘Tell the world that we finally got it all right / I choose you.’

 

  1. ‘Grow Old with Me’ – John Lennon

Key lyrics: ‘Grow old along with me / The best is yet to be.’

 

  1. ‘Breathe Again’ – Toni Braxton

Key lyrics: ‘If I never feel you in my arms again / If I never feel your tender kiss again.’

 

  1. ‘Yours’ – Russell Dickerson

Key lyrics: ‘I came to life when I first kissed you / The best me has his arms around you.’

 

  1. ‘Feels Like Home’ – Chantal Kreviazuk

Key lyrics: ‘It feels like home to me / It feels like I’m all the way back where I come from.’

 

  1. ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’ – James Arthur

Key lyrics: ‘I’m gonna love you ’til my lungs give out / I promise ’til death we part like in our vows.’

 

  1. ‘I Do’ – Colbie Caillat

Key lyrics: ‘You make me wanna say I do, I do, I do, do-do-do-do-do-do.’

 

  1. ‘How Long Will I Love You’ – Ellie Goulding

Key lyrics: ‘How long will I love you? / As long as stars are above you.’

 

  1. ‘Beyond’ – Leon Bridges

Key lyrics: ‘Will she have my kids? / Will she be my wife? / She might just be my everything and beyond.’

 

  1. ‘Here and Now’ – Luther Vandross

Key lyrics: ‘Here and now, I promise to love faithfully.’

 

  1. ‘I Believe in You and Me’ – Whitney Houston

Key lyrics: ‘I believe in dreams again / I believe that love will never end.’

 

  1. ‘Angel’ – Jack Johnson

Key lyrics: ‘I’ve got an angel / She doesn’t wear any wings.’

 

  1. ‘Tenerife Sea’ – Ed Sheeran

Key lyrics: ‘You look so beautiful in this light / Your silhouette over me.’

 

  1. ‘I’ll Be’ – Edwin McCain

Key lyrics: ‘I’ll be your crying shoulder / I’ll be love’s suicide.’

 

  1. ‘Lucky’ – Jason Mraz ft. Colbie Caillat

Key lyrics: ‘Lucky I’m in love with my best friend.’

 

  1. ‘So This Is Love’ – Ilene Woods

Key lyrics: ‘So this is love, so this is what makes life divine.’

 

  1. ‘When You Say Nothing at All’ – Alison Krauss

Key lyrics: ‘You say it best when you say nothing at all.’

 

  1. ‘Stay With You’ – John Legend

Key lyrics: ‘Through the ups and the downs / Yes, I’m gonna stay with you.’

 

  1. ‘God Gave Me You’ – Blake Shelton

Key lyrics: ‘God gave me you for the ups and downs / God gave me you for the days of doubt.’

 

  1. ‘Back at One’ – Brian McKnight

Key lyrics: ‘One, you’re like a dream come true / Two, just wanna be with you.’

 

  1. ‘You’re Still the One’ – Shania Twain

Key lyrics: ‘You’re still the one I run to / The one that I belong to.’

 

  1. ‘Dancing in the Moonlight’ – King Harvest

Key lyrics: ‘Everybody’s dancing in the moonlight.’

 

  1. ‘I Swear’ – All-4-One

Key lyrics: ‘I swear by the moon and the stars in the sky / I’ll be there.’

 

  1. ‘Kiss Me’ – Sixpence None the Richer

Key lyrics: ‘Kiss me beneath the milky twilight / Lead me out on the moonlit floor.’

 

  1. ‘Love Story’ – Taylor Swift

Key lyrics: ‘Romeo, take me somewhere we can be alone.’

 

  1. ‘Make It to Me’ – Sam Smith

Key lyrics: ‘You’re the one designed for me / A distant stranger that I will complete.’

 

  1. ‘How Do I Live’ – LeAnn Rimes

Key lyrics: ‘How do I live without you? / I want to know.’

 

  1. ‘This I Promise You’ – NSYNC

Key lyrics: ‘And I will take you in my arms / And hold you right where you belong.’

 

  1. ‘If I Ain’t Got You’ – Alicia Keys

Key lyrics: ‘Some people want diamond rings / But I don’t want anything if it ain’t you.’

 

  1. ‘When God Made You’ – NewSong & Natalie Grant

Key lyrics: ‘When God made you / He must have been thinking about me.’

 

  1. ‘Eternal Flame’ – The Bangles

Key lyrics: ‘Close your eyes, give me your hand, darling / Do you feel my heart beating?’

 

  1. ‘She Keeps Me Warm’ – Mary Lambert

Key lyrics: ‘She says I smell like safety and home.’

 

  1. ‘I Could Not Ask for More’ – Edwin McCain

Key lyrics: ‘I could not ask for more than this time together.’

 

  1. ‘Hero’ – Enrique Iglesias

Key lyrics: ‘I can be your hero, baby / I can kiss away the pain.’

 

  1. ‘Moon River’ – Audrey Hepburn

Key lyrics: ‘Two drifters, off to see the world / There’s such a lot of world to see.’

 

  1. ‘Wonderful Tonight’ – Eric Clapton

Key lyrics: ‘And then she asks me, ‘Do I look all right?’ / And I say, ‘Yes, you look wonderful tonight.”

 

  1. ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’ – Frankie Valli

Key lyrics: ‘You’re just too good to be true / Can’t take my eyes off you.’

 

  1. ‘The Book of Love’ – Peter Gabriel

Key lyrics: ‘The book of love is long and boring / And written very long ago.’

 

  1. ‘Greatest Day’ – Take That

Key lyrics: ‘Today this could be, the greatest day of our lives.’

 

  1. ‘Let’s Stay Together’ – Al Green

Key lyrics: ‘Let’s stay together / Loving you whether times are good or bad.’

 

  1. ‘I Was Made for Loving You’ – Tori Kelly ft. Ed Sheeran

Key lyrics: ‘Even though we may be hopeless hearts just passing through / Every bone screams I don’t know what we should do.’

 

  1. ‘To Be Loved’ – Adele

Key lyrics: ‘I built a house for love to grow / I was so young that it was hard to know.’

 

  1. ‘Valentine’ – Jim Brickman ft. Martina McBride

Key lyrics: ‘You would still have my heart until the end of time.’

 

  1. ‘Loving You’ – Minnie Riperton

Key lyrics: ‘Loving you is easy ’cause you’re beautiful.’

 

  1. ‘When I Fall in Love’ – Nat King Cole

Key lyrics: ‘When I fall in love / It will be forever.’

 

  1. ‘Sweet Thing’ – Van Morrison

Key lyrics: ‘And you shall take me strongly in your arms again / And I will not remember that I even felt the pain.’

30 modern first dance songs

  1. ‘Lover’ – Taylor Swift

Key lyrics: ‘Can I go where you go? / Can we always be this close forever and ever?’

 

  1. ‘You’re Somebody Else’ – Flora Cash

Key lyrics: ‘Well, you look like yourself / But you’re somebody else, only it ain’t on the surface.’

 

  1. ‘Peaches’ – Justin Bieber ft. Daniel Caesar, Giveon

Key lyrics: ‘I wanna wrap my arms around you, baby, never let you go, oh.’

 

  1. ‘Better Half of Me’ – Tom Walker

Key lyrics: ‘And I’m still up at 4 AM / Is this ever gonna end? / Can I rely on you?’

 

  1. ‘Wild Love’ – James Bay

Key lyrics: ‘Don’t know what to say / I wanna see your face / And I know what it feels like to fall in love.’

 

  1. ‘We Found Love’ – Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris

Key lyrics: ‘We found love in a hopeless place.’

 

  1. ‘Run’ – Snow Patrol

Key lyrics: ‘Light up, light up / As if you have a choice.’

 

  1. ‘Shallow’ – Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper

Key lyrics: ‘I’m off the deep end, watch as I dive in / I’ll never meet the ground.’

 

  1. ‘One Call Away’ – Charlie Puth

Key lyrics: ‘I’m only one call away / I’ll be there to save the day.’

 

  1. ‘You Are the Reason’ – Calum Scott ft. Leona Lewis

Key lyrics: ‘I’d climb every mountain / And swim every ocean / Just to be with you.’

 

  1. ‘Electric Love’ – BØRNS

Key lyrics: ‘Baby, you’re like lightning in a bottle / I can’t let you go now that I got it.’

 

  1. ‘Anyone’ – Justin Bieber

Key lyrics: ‘You are the only one I’ll ever love / If it’s not you, it’s not anyone.’

 

  1. ‘Speechless’ – Beyoncé

Key lyrics: ‘You’ve got me, you’ve got me, you’ve got me / Speechless.’

 

  1. ‘If the World Was Ending’ – JP Saxe ft. Julia Michaels

Key lyrics: ‘If the world was ending, you’d come over, right? / You’d come over and you’d stay the night.’

 

  1. ‘Always Remember Us This Way’ – Lady Gaga

Key lyrics: ‘So when I’m all choked up and I can’t find the words / Every time we say goodbye, baby, it hurts.’

 

  1. ‘Sweet Creature’ – Harry Styles

Key lyrics: ‘Sweet creature, sweet creature / Wherever I go, you bring me home.’

 

  1. ‘Sunflower’ – Post Malone

Key lyrics: ‘You’re a sunflower, I think your love would be too much.’

 

  1. ‘Golden Hour’ – JVKE

Key lyrics: ‘It’s your golden hour / You slow down time in your golden hour.’

 

  1. ‘Hold Me While You Wait’ – Lewis Capaldi

Key lyrics: ‘Hold me while you wait / I wish that I was good enough.’

 

  1. ‘This Year’s Love’ – David Gray

Key lyrics: ‘This year’s love had better last.’

 

  1. ‘Show Me Love’ – Alicia Keys

Key lyrics: ‘Show me love / Treat it like we freakin’ on the weekend, show me love.’

 

  1. ‘Blinding Lights’ – The Weeknd

Key lyrics: ‘I’m blinded by the lights / No, I can’t sleep until I feel your touch.’

 

  1. ‘Daylight’ – Taylor Swift

Key lyrics: ‘I don’t wanna look at anything else now that I saw you / I don’t wanna think of anything else now that I thought of you.’

 

  1. ‘Adore You’ – Harry Styles

Key lyrics: ‘Just let me adore you, oh honey.’

 

  1. ‘Into You’ – Ariana Grande

Key lyrics: ‘So, baby, come light me up, and maybe I’ll let you on it.’

 

  1. ‘Another Love’ – Tom Odell

Key lyrics: ‘I wanna take you somewhere so you know I care / But it’s so cold, and I don’t know where.’

 

  1. ‘Levitating’ – Dua Lipa

Key lyrics: ‘If you wanna run away with me, I know a galaxy and I can take you for a ride.’

 

  1. ‘Heartbeat’ – Shawn Mendes

Key lyrics: ‘You light me up inside like the 4th of July / Whenever you’re around, I always seem to smile.’

 

  1. ‘Forever After All’ – Luke Combs

Key lyrics: ‘They say nothing lasts forever, but they ain’t seen us together.’

 

  1. ‘Home’ – Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros

Key lyrics: ‘Home is wherever I’m with you.’

15 upbeat first dance songs

  1. ‘Happy’ – Pharrell Williams

Key lyrics: ‘Because I’m happy / Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof.’

 

  1. ‘Walking on Sunshine’ – Katrina and the Waves

Key lyrics: ‘I’m walking on sunshine, whoa-oh! / And don’t it feel good!’

 

  1. ‘Love on Top’ – Beyoncé

Key lyrics: ‘Baby, it’s you / You’re the one I love / You’re the one I need.’

 

  1. ‘Sugar’ – Maroon 5

Key lyrics: ‘Sugar, yes please / Won’t you come and put it down on me?’

 

  1. ‘Better Together’ – Jack Johnson

Key lyrics: ‘You and I, we’re better together / I could live without you, but I’d rather not.’

 

  1. ‘Best Day of My Life’ – American Authors

Key lyrics: ‘This is gonna be the best day of my life / My life.’

 

  1. ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ – Whitney Houston

Key lyrics: ‘I wanna dance with somebody / I wanna feel the heat with somebody.’

 

  1. ‘Shut Up and Dance’ – WALK THE MOON

Key lyrics: ‘Ooh, I want to dance with you / Oh, don’t you dare look back.’

 

  1. ‘Higher Love’ – Kygo ft. Whitney Houston

Key lyrics: ‘Bring me a higher love / Where’s that higher love I keep thinking of?’

 

  1. ‘Dog Days Are Over’ – Florence + The Machine

Key lyrics: ‘The dog days are over / The dog days are done / The horses are coming, so you better run.’

 

  1. ‘Feel So Close’ – Calvin Harris

Key lyrics: ‘I feel so close to you right now / It’s a force field.’

 

  1. ‘Good as Hell’ – Lizzo

Key lyrics: ‘I do my hair toss, check my nails / Baby, how you feelin’? / Feeling good as hell!’

 

  1. ‘Let’s Get Loud’ – Jennifer Lopez

Key lyrics: ‘Let’s get loud, let’s get loud / Turn the music up, let’s do it.’

 

  1. ‘Classic’ – MKTO

Key lyrics: ‘Keep it real to real in the way I feel / I could walk you down the aisle.’

 

  1. ‘Can’t Stop the Feeling!’ – Justin Timberlake

Key lyrics: ‘I got that sunshine in my pocket / Got that good soul in my feet.’

30 indie first dance songs

  1. ‘There Will Be Time’ – Mumford & Sons ft. Baaba Maal

Key lyrics: ‘In the cold light, I live to love and adore you / It’s all that I am, it’s all that I have.’

 

  1. ‘Bloom’ – The Paper Kites

Key lyrics: ‘Bloom, bloom, bloom, bloom, bloom / You are the light in the dark.’

 

  1. ‘Sea of Love’ – Cat Power

Key lyrics: ‘Come with me, my love / To the sea, the sea of love.’

 

  1. ‘Ho Hey’ – The Lumineers

Key lyrics: ‘I belong with you, you belong with me, you’re my sweetheart.’

 

  1. ‘You’ve Got the Love’ – Florence + The Machine

Key lyrics: ‘You’ve got the love, you’ve got the love / You’ve got the love, you’ve got the love.’

 

  1. ‘Flightless Bird, American Mouth’ – Iron & Wine

Key lyrics: ‘I was a quick wet boy / Diving too deep for coins / All of your straight lines.’

 

  1. ‘Grow Old With Me’ – Tom Odell

Key lyrics: ‘Grow old with me, let us share what we see / And we’ll share what we love.’

 

  1. ‘The One’ – Kodaline

Key lyrics: ‘I would die for you / But that’s just not enough.’

 

  1. ‘Turning Page’ – Sleeping at Last

Key lyrics: ‘And with your love, my hands are tied / In this world where we could collide.’

 

  1. ‘She Is Love’ – Parachute

Key lyrics: ‘She is love, and she is all I need.’

 

  1. ‘First Day of My Life’ – Bright Eyes

Key lyrics: ‘This is the first day of my life / I swear I was born right in the doorway.’

 

  1. ‘Yellow’ – Coldplay

Key lyrics: ‘Look at the stars, look how they shine for you / And everything you do, yeah, they were all yellow.’

 

  1. ‘Falling in Love at a Coffee Shop’ – Landon Pigg

Key lyrics: ‘I think I fell in love today, oh / I think I fell in love today.’

 

  1. ‘Skinny Love’ – Bon Iver

Key lyrics: ‘Come on skinny love, just last the year / Pour a little salt, we were never here.’

 

  1. ‘1234’ – Feist

Key lyrics: ‘1, 2, 3, 4, tell me that you love me more / Sleepless long nights, that is what my youth was for.’

 

  1. ‘Holocene’ – Bon Iver

Key lyrics: ‘And at once I knew I was not magnificent / Strayed above the highway aisle.’

 

  1. ‘Sweet Disposition’ – The Temper Trap

Key lyrics: ‘Sweet disposition / Never too soon, oh, oh / I’m just trying to find / A place for you.’

 

  1. ‘Big Jet Plane’ – Angus & Julia Stone

Key lyrics: ‘She said, ‘Hey, you, and you / Don’t you know that I am the one / Who can make you feel so blue?”

 

  1. ‘All I Want’ – Kodaline

Key lyrics: ‘All I want is nothing more / To hear you knocking at my door.’

 

  1. ‘Ophelia’ – The Lumineers

Key lyrics: ‘Oh, Ophelia, you’ve been on my mind / Girl, since the flood.’

 

  1. Chance’ – Angel Olsen

Key lyrics: ‘All that space in between where we stand / Could be our chance / Could be our chance.’

 

  1. ‘Roslyn’ – Bon Iver & St. Vincent

Key lyrics: ‘This is not the sound of a new man / or a crispy realisation / It’s the sound of the unlocking and the lift away.’

 

  1. ‘Work Song’ – Hozier

Key lyrics: ‘I will be the one to keep you warm / Hold your heart, keep it from the storm.’

 

  1. ‘Chasing Cars’ – Snow Patrol

Key lyrics: ‘If I lay here / If I just lay here / Would you lie with me and just forget the world?’

 

  1. ‘Love Like This’ – Kodaline

Key lyrics: ‘And I know that I will love you / And I know that you will love me.’

 

  1. ‘VCR’ – The xx

Key lyrics: ‘You don’t know me, but I know you / I don’t even want to / I don’t even want to tell you.’

 

  1. ‘Heroes’ – David Bowie (Acoustic Version)

Key lyrics: ‘We can be heroes, just for one day / We can be us, just for one day.’

 

  1. ‘In My Arms’ – Plumb

Key lyrics: ‘I will be your shelter, I will be your storm / I will make you shiver, I will keep you warm.’

 

  1. ‘Stolen’ – Dashboard Confessional

Key lyrics: ‘You have stolen my heart / And I don’t know what to do.’

 

  1. ‘Passenger Seat’ – Death Cab for Cutie

Key lyrics: ‘I’m in love with you / And I am, and I am / In love with you.’

15 unconventional first dance songs

  1. ‘I Want to Hold Your Hand’ – T.V. Carpio

Key lyrics: ‘Oh, please, say to me / You’ll let me be your man / And please, say to me / You’ll let me hold your hand.’

 

  1. ‘Creep’ – Radiohead (Acoustic Cover)

Key lyrics: ‘When you were here before, couldn’t look you in the eye / You’re just like an angel, your skin makes me cry.’

 

  1. ‘The Book of Love’ – Magnetic Fields

Key lyrics: ‘But I, I love it when you give me things / And you, you ought to give me wedding rings.’

 

  1. ‘You’re My Best Friend’ – Queen

Key lyrics: ‘Ooh, you make me live / Whatever this world can give to me / ‘Cause you’re all I see.’

 

  1. ‘Come As You Are’ – Nirvana (String Quartet Cover)

Key lyrics: ‘Come as you are, as you were / As I want you to be.’

 

  1. ‘Sweet Child O’ Mine’ – Guns N’ Roses

Key lyrics: ‘She’s got eyes of the bluest skies / As if they thought of rain / I hate to look into those eyes and see an ounce of pain.’

 

  1. ‘Take Me to Church’ – Hozier (Acoustic Version)

Key lyrics: ‘Take me to church / I’ll worship like a dog at the shrine of your lies / I’ll tell you my sins and you can sharpen your knife.’

 

  1. ‘The Only Exception’ – Paramore

Key lyrics: ‘And I am breaking / I’m not broken / And I’m not breaking / I’m not broken.’

 

  1. ‘Somebody That I Used to Know’ – Gotye ft. Kimbra

Key lyrics: ‘Now you’re just somebody that I used to know / Now you’re just somebody that I used to know.’

 

  1. ‘Space Oddity’ – David Bowie

Key lyrics: ‘This is Ground Control to Major Tom / You’ve really made the grade / And the papers want to know whose shirts you wear.’

 

  1. ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ – Nirvana

Key lyrics: ‘With the lights out, it’s less dangerous / Here we are now, entertain us / I feel stupid and contagious.’

 

  1. ‘Such Great Heights’ – Iron and Wine (a Postal Service cover)

Key lyrics: ‘They will see us waving from such great heights / Come down now, they’ll say / But everything looks perfect from far away.’

 

  1. ‘Young and Beautiful’ – Lana Del Rey

Key lyrics: ‘Will you still love me when I’m no longer young and beautiful?’

 

  1. ‘Everlong’ – Foo Fighters (Acoustic)

Key lyrics: ‘And I wonder / When I sing along with you / If everything could ever feel this real forever.’

 

  1. ‘Crashed the Wedding’ – Busted

Key lyrics: ‘True love lasts forever / And now we’re back together.’

30 classic first dance songs

  1. ‘Unforgettable’ – Nat King Cole

Key lyrics: ‘Unforgettable, that’s what you are / Unforgettable, though near or far.’

 

  1. ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ – Frank Sinatra

Key lyrics: ‘Fly me to the moon / Let me play among the stars / Let me see what spring is like on Jupiter and Mars.’

 

  1. ‘The Very Thought of You’ – Billie Holiday

Key lyrics: ‘The very thought of you / And I forget to do / The little ordinary things that everyone ought to do.’

 

  1. ‘And I Love You So’ – Perry Como

Key lyrics: ‘And I love you so / The people ask me how / How I’ve lived till now / I tell them I don’t know.’

 

  1. ‘Cheek to Cheek’ – Fred Astaire

Key lyrics: ‘Heaven, I’m in heaven / And my heart beats so that I can hardly speak.’

 

  1. ‘Dream a Little Dream of Me’ – Louis Armstrong & Ella Fitzgerald

Key lyrics: ‘Stars shining bright above you / Night breezes seem to whisper ‘I love you’.’

 

  1. ‘I’ve Got You Under My Skin’ – Frank Sinatra

Key lyrics: ‘I’ve got you under my skin / I’ve got you deep in the heart of me.’

 

  1. ‘For Once in My Life’ – Stevie Wonder

Key lyrics: ‘For once in my life, I have someone who needs me / Someone I’ve needed so long.’

 

  1. ‘My Girl’ – The Temptations

Key lyrics: ‘I’ve got sunshine on a cloudy day / When it’s cold outside, I’ve got the month of May.’

 

  1. ‘The Way You Look Tonight’ – Fred Astaire

Key lyrics: ‘Someday, when I’m awfully low / When the world is cold, I will feel a glow just thinking of you.’

 

  1. ‘What a Wonderful World’ – Louis Armstrong

Key lyrics: ‘I see trees of green, red roses too / I see them bloom for me and you.’

 

  1. ‘Let’s Face the Music and Dance’ – Nat King Cole

Key lyrics: ‘Let’s face the music and dance / Let’s face the music and dance.’

 

  1. ‘Isn’t It Romantic’ – Ella Fitzgerald

Key lyrics: ‘Isn’t it romantic? / Music in the night, a dream that can be heard.’

 

  1. ‘It Had to Be You’ – Harry Connick Jr.

Key lyrics: ‘It had to be you, it had to be you / I wandered around and finally found / The somebody who could make me be true.’

 

  1. ‘That’s Amore’ – Dean Martin

Key lyrics: ‘When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that’s amore.’

 

  1. ‘Only You’ – The Platters

Key lyrics: ‘Only you can make the darkness bright.’

 

  1. ‘That’s How Strong My Love Is’ – Otis Redding

Key lyrics: ‘That’s how strong my love is, baby, baby / That’s how strong my love is.’

 

  1. ‘You Belong to Me’ – Jo Stafford

Key lyrics: ‘See the pyramids along the Nile / Watch the sunrise on a tropic isle.’

 

  1. ‘Always’ – Irving Berlin

Key lyrics: ‘I’ll be loving you, always / With a love that’s true, always.’

 

  1. ‘Someone to Watch Over Me’ – Ella Fitzgerald

Key lyrics: ‘There’s a somebody I’m longing to see / I hope that he turns out to be / Someone to watch over me.’

 

  1. ‘True Love’ – Bing Crosby & Grace Kelly

Key lyrics: ‘True love, true love / Oh, true love, true love.’

 

  1. ‘Sway’ – Dean Martin

Key lyrics: ‘When marimba rhythms start to play / Dance with me, make me sway.’

 

  1. ‘A Kiss to Build a Dream On’ – Louis Armstrong

Key lyrics: ‘Give me a kiss to build a dream on / And my imagination will thrive upon that kiss.’

 

  1. ‘They Can’t Take That Away From Me’ – Frank Sinatra

Key lyrics: ‘The way you wear your hat / The way you sip your tea / The memory of all that.’

 

  1. ‘You Do Something to Me’ – Paul Weller

Key lyrics: ‘You do something to me, something that simply mystifies me.’

 

  1. ‘How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)’ – Marvin Gaye

Key lyrics: ‘How sweet it is to be loved by you / How sweet it is to be loved by you.’

 

  1. ‘When a Man Loves a Woman’ – Percy Sledge

Key lyrics: ‘When a man loves a woman / Can’t keep his mind on nothin’ else.’

 

  1. ‘Stand by Me’ – Ben E. King

Key lyrics: ‘So darling, darling stand by me / Oh, stand by me.’

 

  1. ‘Chances Are’ – Johnny Mathis

Key lyrics: ‘Chances are, ’cause I wear a silly grin / The moment you come into view.’

 

  1. ‘I Only Have Eyes for You’ – The Flamingos

Key lyrics: ‘I only have eyes for you / The moon may be high / But I can’t see a thing in the sky.’

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The 175 Best Wedding Reception Songs

After the nerves and jitters of your ceremony and the formalities of your wedding breakfast, once it’s time for your wedding reception to start, you can finally let your hair down. Your wedding reception is an evening filled with fun, spending time with your newly enlarged family, eating and – of course – dancing.

And the best way to get your guests to join you on the dancefloor is with a banging playlist filled with classics, romantic hits, chart toppers and even a few cheesy numbers thrown in for good measure. And while it’s important to have a mix of songs playing at your wedding reception, you probably won’t want to just hit ‘random’. That’s why a carefully chosen playlist can ensure you throw a party no one will soon forget.

In this article, we’ll run through 175 of the best wedding reception songs to consider including in your playlist, from high-energy anthems to those so-bad-they’re-great crowd-pleasers.

What songs do you need at a wedding reception?

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There’s way more to your wedding reception than a disco, with a whole range of different types of songs playing, depending on the size and style you’ve gone for. Here are the most common types of songs you might expect to hear at a wedding reception:

  • Entrance song: A usually upbeat song that plays when the happy couple enters the reception venue for the first time.
  • First dance song: A romantic and slow-tempo song that the couple will have their first official dance to.
  • Parents’ dance: A slower song that plays as the couple dances with their parents, such as a father-daughter and mother-son dance.
  • Cultural songs: It may be appropriate to play songs that honour the families’ cultures and beliefs.
  • Party songs: When the disco starts, it’s time to throw some shapes to popular crowd-pleasers!
  • Closing song: Usually a funny or relevant song that lets your guests know the night has come to an end.

What makes for a good wedding reception song?

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A good wedding reception song helps to capture the feeling of love and celebration that fits with the tone of your overall wedding. You can choose from a mix of genres, eras, styles and artists, to make sure you have tunes that suit everyone’s tastes.

Here are a few characteristics that make for a great wedding reception song:

  • High energy: Make sure you have songs that everyone wants to dance to
  • Timeless: Songs that everyone instantly recognises and no doubt already loves.
  • Emotional: Songs focused on love and happiness will always go down well.
  • Relevance: Try to choose some songs with heartfelt and celebratory lyrics, or lyrics that you have a personal connection to.
  • Danceability: Of course, the songs have to have a beat everyone can dance to!
  • Variety: Choose different songs that will appeal to a wide variety of age groups. Yes, you might love hard rock, but can your 97-year-old grandma dance to it all night long?
  • Cultural significance: If you have songs that relate to your background or culture, it’s great to honour them by including some.

What sorts of genres should you include?

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What genres of music you choose to include at your wedding reception is really down to you, your tastes and the tone you’re going for. The important thing is to choose a wide variety of songs from lots of different genres. But, you also want to make sure the songs flow nicely from one to the next – though that’s for your DJ (if you have one) to worry about.

A well-rounded wedding reception playlist will include songs from genres like: 

  • Pop
  • Classic rock
  • R&B
  • Disco
  • Indie
  • Motown
  • Dance
  • Country
  • Hip-hop

This list is far from exhaustive. Whatever your musical tastes, there are absolutely ways to include them in your reception playlist. Have a chat with whoever is in charge of your music and let them know the sort of songs you’d like. 

How many songs do you need at your wedding reception?

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The number of songs that will play at your wedding reception depends entirely on the length of your evening.

As a rough guide, most songs are between three and four minutes in length, which means approximately 15 to 20 songs will play per hour. So, if your reception lasts two hours, up to 40 songs will play. If it’s four hours, up to 80 songs will play.

But, it’s always best to choose more than you need if you want to make sure your playlist is only full of your favourite tunes.

175 of the best songs to include in your wedding reception

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Choosing your wedding reception playlist can be a lot of fun, but with an almost endless number of songs out there, where on Earth do you start? To help you whittle things down, we’ve put together 175 of the best wedding reception songs, so you can throw the party of the century.

20 wedding entrance songs

  1. ‘Marry You’ – Bruno Mars

Key Lyrics: ‘It’s a beautiful night, we’re looking for something dumb to do.’

 

  1. ‘Bring ‘Em Out’ – T.I.

Key Lyrics: ‘Bring ’em out, bring ’em out, bring ’em out, bring ’em out!’

 

  1. ‘Can’t Stop the Feeling!’ – Justin Timberlake

Key Lyrics: ‘I got that sunshine in my pocket, got that good soul in my feet.’

 

  1. ‘Happy’ – Pharrell Williams

Key Lyrics: ‘Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth.’

 

  1. ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)’ – Stevie Wonder

Key Lyrics: ‘Here I am, signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours.’

 

  1. ‘Let’s Get Married (Remix)’ – Jagged Edge ft. Run DMC

Key Lyrics: ‘Meet me at the altar in your white dress.’

 

  1. ‘This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)’ – Natalie Cole

Key Lyrics: ‘This will be an everlasting love for me.’

 

  1. ‘Feel So Close’ – Calvin Harris

Key Lyrics: ‘I feel so close to you right now, it’s a force field.’

 

  1. ‘We Found Love’ – Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris

Key Lyrics: ‘We found love in a hopeless place.’

 

  1. ‘I Gotta Feeling’ – Black Eyed Peas

Key Lyrics: ‘Tonight’s gonna be a good night.’

 

  1. ‘I’m Yours’ – Jason Mraz

Key lyrics: ‘I’m yours.’

 

  1. ‘Walking on Sunshine’ – Katrina and the Waves

Key Lyrics: ‘I’m walking on sunshine, whoa!’

 

  1. ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

Key Lyrics: ‘Ain’t no mountain high enough, ain’t no valley low enough.’

 

  1. ‘All You Need is Love’ – The Beatles

Key Lyrics: ‘All you need is love, love, love is all you need.’

 

  1. ‘You Make My Dreams (Come True)’ – Hall & Oates

Key Lyrics: ‘You make my dreams come true.’

 

  1. ‘Dynamite’ – Taio Cruz

Key Lyrics: ‘I throw my hands up in the air sometimes, saying ‘ayo, gotta let go.”

 

  1. ‘Good Life’ – Kanye West ft. T-Pain

Key Lyrics: ‘Welcome to the good life.’

 

  1. ‘On Top of the World’ – Imagine Dragons

Key Lyrics: ‘I’m on top of the world, hey!’

 

  1. ‘Let’s Get It Started’ – Black Eyed Peas

Key Lyrics: ‘Let’s get it started in here.’

 

  1. ‘Beautiful Day’ – U2

Key Lyrics: ‘It’s a beautiful day, don’t let it get away.’

 

Looking for a little more inspo for wedding entrance songs? Read our article featuring 150 of the best wedding entrance songs for even more ideas.

20 first dance songs

  1. ‘Perfect’ – Ed Sheeran

Key Lyrics: ‘I found a love, to carry more than just my secrets.’

 

  1. ‘At Last’ – Etta James

Key Lyrics: ‘At last, my love has come along.’

 

  1. ‘All of Me’ – John Legend

Key Lyrics: ‘All of me loves all of you.’

 

  1. ‘Thinking Out Loud’ – Ed Sheeran

Key Lyrics: ‘Take me into your loving arms.’

 

  1. ‘You Are the Best Thing’ – Ray LaMontagne

Key Lyrics: ‘You are the best thing that ever happened to me.’

 

  1. ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’ – James Arthur

Key Lyrics: ‘I’m gonna love you till my lungs give out.’

 

  1. ‘Lucky’ – Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat

Key Lyrics: ‘Lucky I’m in love with my best friend.’

 

  1. ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ – Elvis Presley

Key Lyrics: ‘Take my hand, take my whole life too.’

 

  1. ‘Beyond’ – Leon Bridges

Key Lyrics: ‘She might just be my everything and beyond.’

 

  1. ‘Speechless’ – Dan + Shay

Key Lyrics: ‘I’m speechless, staring at you standing there in that dress.’

 

  1. ‘Die a Happy Man’ – Thomas Rhett

Key Lyrics: ‘I could die a happy man.’

 

  1. ‘Better Together’ – Jack Johnson

Key Lyrics: ‘It’s always better when we’re together.’

 

  1. ‘Lover’ – Taylor Swift

Key Lyrics: ‘Can I go where you go?’

 

  1. ‘Everything’ – Michael Bublé

Key Lyrics: ‘You’re everything, everything to me.’

 

  1. ‘When You Say Nothing At All’ – Ronan Keating

Key Lyrics: ‘You say it best (you say it best) when you say nothing at all.’

 

  1. ‘From the Ground Up’ – Dan + Shay

Key Lyrics: ‘We’ll build this love from the ground up.’

 

  1. ‘I Get to Love You’ – Ruelle

Key Lyrics: ‘I get to love you, it’s the best thing I’ll ever do.’

 

  1. ‘Unchained Melody’ – The Righteous Brothers

Key Lyrics: ‘Oh, my love, my darling, I’ve hungered for your touch.’

 

  1. ‘Make You Feel My Love’ – Adele

Key Lyrics: ‘I could make you happy, make your dreams come true.’

 

  1. ‘Yours’ – Russell Dickerson

Key Lyrics: ‘I came to life when I first kissed you.’

20 songs couples can dance to

  1. ‘Shallow’ – Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper

Key Lyrics: ‘I’m off the deep end, watch as I dive in / I’ll never meet the ground.’

 

  1. ‘By Your Side’ – Sade

    Key Lyrics: ‘Oh, when you’re cold, I’ll be there / Hold you tight to me (to me, yeah).’

 

  1. ‘If I Ain’t Got You’ – Alicia Keys

Key Lyrics: ‘Some people want it all, but I don’t want nothing at all / If it ain’t you, baby.’

 

  1. ‘Best Part’ – Daniel Caesar & H.E.R.

Key Lyrics: ‘You’re my water when I’m stuck in the desert / You’re the Tylenol I take when my head hurts.’

 

  1. ‘Adore You’ – Harry Styles

Key Lyrics: ‘Just let me adore you / Like it’s the only thing I’ll ever do.’

 

  1. ‘A Thousand Years’ – Christina Perri

Key Lyrics: ‘I have died every day waiting for you / Darling, don’t be afraid, I have loved you for a thousand years.’

 

  1. ‘Latch’ – Disclosure ft. Sam Smith

Key Lyrics: ‘Now I’ve got you in my space / I won’t let go of you.’

 

  1. ‘No One’ – Alicia Keys

Key Lyrics: ‘No one, no one, no one / Can get in the way of what I’m feeling.’

 

  1. ‘Come Away with Me’ – Norah Jones

Key Lyrics: ‘Come away with me and we’ll kiss on a mountaintop.’

 

  1. ‘You Send Me’ – Sam Cooke

Key Lyrics: ‘You send me / Honest you do, honest you do.’

 

  1. ‘Electric Feel’ – MGMT

Key Lyrics: ‘You can feel it in your mind, oh, you can do it all the time.’

 

  1. ‘Higher Love’ – Kygo & Whitney Houston

Key Lyrics: ‘Bring me a higher love / Where’s that higher love I keep thinking of?’

 

  1. ‘You’re Still the One’ – Shania Twain

Key Lyrics: ‘You’re still the one I run to / The one that I belong to.’

 

  1. ‘Back at One’ – Brian McKnight

Key Lyrics: ‘One, you’re like a dream come true / Two, just wanna be with you.’

 

  1. ‘Like I’m Gonna Lose You’ – Meghan Trainor & John Legend

Key Lyrics: ‘So I’m gonna love you like I’m gonna lose you.’

 

  1. ‘XO’ – Beyoncé

Key Lyrics: ‘In the darkest night, I’ll search through the crowd / Your face is all that I see.’

 

  1. ‘How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)’ – James Taylor

Key Lyrics: ‘How sweet it is to be loved by you.’

 

  1. ‘Let’s Stay Together’ – Al Green

Key Lyrics: ‘Let’s stay together, loving you whether / Times are good or bad, happy or sad.’

 

  1. ‘Someone Like You’ – Van Morrison

Key Lyrics: ‘I’ve been searching my whole life through / For someone like you.’

 

  1. ‘Baby, I Love Your Way’ – Peter Frampton

Key Lyrics: ‘Ooh baby, I love your way, every day.’

50 high-energy songs that everyone can dance to

  1. ‘Uptown Funk’ – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars

Key Lyrics: ‘Don’t believe me, just watch!’

 

  1. ‘Don’t Stop Believin” – Journey

Key Lyrics: ‘Don’t stop believin’ / Hold on to that feelin’.’

 

  1. ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ – Whitney Houston

Key Lyrics: ‘Oh, I wanna dance with somebody / I wanna feel the heat with somebody.’

 

  1. ‘Shut Up and Dance’ – WALK THE MOON

Key Lyrics: ‘Oh, don’t you dare look back / Just keep your eyes on me.’

 

  1. ‘September’ – Earth, Wind & Fire

Key Lyrics: ‘Do you remember the 21st night of September?’

 

  1. ‘Livin’ on a Prayer’ – Bon Jovi

Key Lyrics: ‘Whoa, we’re halfway there / Whoa-oh, livin’ on a prayer.’

 

  1. ‘Yeah!’ – Usher ft. Lil Jon & Ludacris

Key Lyrics: ‘Yeah, yeah, shorty got down low, said, ‘Come and get me.”

 

  1. ‘Billie Jean’ – Michael Jackson

Key Lyrics: ‘Billie Jean is not my lover / She’s just a girl who claims that I am the one.’

 

  1. ‘Sweet Caroline’ – Neil Diamond

Key Lyrics: ‘Sweet Caroline / Good times never seemed so good.’

 

  1. ‘Dancing Queen’ – ABBA

Key Lyrics: ‘You are the dancing queen / Young and sweet, only seventeen.’

 

  1. ‘Footloose’ – Kenny Loggins

Key Lyrics: ‘Everybody cut footloose!’

 

  1. ‘Shake It Off’ – Taylor Swift

Key Lyrics: ‘The players gonna play, play, play, play, play / And the haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate.’

 

  1. ‘Crazy in Love’ – Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z

Key Lyrics: ‘Got me looking so crazy right now, your love’s got me looking so crazy right now.’

 

  1. ‘Hey Ya!’ – OutKast

Key Lyrics: ‘Shake it like a Polaroid picture!’

 

  1. ‘Super Freak’ – Rick James

Key Lyrics: ‘She’s a very kinky girl / The kind you don’t take home to mother.’

 

  1. ‘Wake Me Up’ – Avicii

Key Lyrics: ‘So wake me up when it’s all over / When I’m wiser and I’m older.’

 

  1. ‘Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)’ – Beyoncé

Key Lyrics: ‘If you liked it, then you shoulda put a ring on it.’

 

  1. ‘We Are Family’ – Sister Sledge

Key Lyrics: ‘We are family / I got all my sisters with me.’

 

  1. ‘Party Rock Anthem’ – LMFAO

Key Lyrics: ‘Party rock is in the house tonight / Everybody just have a good time.’

 

  1. ‘Get Lucky’ – Daft Punk ft. Pharrell Williams

Key Lyrics: ‘We’re up all night to get lucky.’

 

  1. ‘Old Town Road’ – Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus

Key Lyrics: ‘Can’t nobody tell me nothing / You can’t tell me nothing.’

 

  1. ‘Hips Don’t Lie’ – Shakira ft. Wyclef Jean

Key Lyrics: ‘Oh, baby, when you talk like that, you make a woman go mad.’

 

  1. ’24K Magic’ – Bruno Mars

Key Lyrics: ‘Players, put your pinky rings up to the moon!’

 

  1. ‘Let’s Groove’ – Earth, Wind & Fire

Key Lyrics: ‘Let’s groove tonight / Share the spice of life.’

 

  1. ‘All Night Long’ – Lionel Richie

Key Lyrics: ‘We’re going to party, karamu, fiesta, forever.’

 

  1. ‘Rock Your Body’ – Justin Timberlake

Key Lyrics: ‘So rock your body right.’

 

  1. ‘Treasure’ – Bruno Mars

Key Lyrics: ‘Treasure, that is what you are / Honey, you’re my golden star.’

 

  1. ‘Jump Around’ – House of Pain

Key Lyrics: ‘Jump around! Jump around!’

 

  1. ‘Levitating’ – Dua Lipa

Key Lyrics: ‘I got you, moonlight, you’re my starlight.’

 

  1. ‘Senorita’ – Justin Timberlake

Key Lyrics: ‘Senorita, I feel for you / You deal with things that you don’t have to.’

 

  1. ‘We Will Rock You’ – Queen

Key Lyrics: ‘We will, we will rock you.’

 

  1. ‘Don’t Stop the Music’ – Rihanna

Key Lyrics: ‘Please don’t stop the music.’

 

  1. ‘Cupid Shuffle’ – Cupid

Key Lyrics: ‘To the right, to the right, to the right, to the right.’

 

  1. ‘Time of Our Lives’ – Pitbull & Ne-Yo

Key Lyrics: ‘I knew my rent was gonna be late about a week ago.’

 

  1. ‘I Love It’ – Icona Pop ft. Charli XCX

Key Lyrics: ‘I don’t care, I love it!’

 

  1. ‘My House’ – Flo Rida

Key Lyrics: ‘Welcome to my house / Baby, take control now.’

 

  1. ‘Wobble’ – V.I.C.

Key Lyrics: ‘Wobble baby, wobble baby, wobble baby, wobble.’

 

  1. ‘Wannabe’ – Spice Girls

Key Lyrics: ‘If you wanna be my lover, you gotta get with my friends.’

 

  1. ‘Toxic’ – Britney Spears

Key Lyrics: ‘With a taste of your lips, I’m on a ride.’

 

  1. ‘Blurred Lines’ – Robin Thicke ft. Pharrell & T.I.

Key Lyrics: ‘I hate these blurred lines.’

 

  1. ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’ – Cyndi Lauper

Key Lyrics: ‘When the working day is done, oh, girls just want to have fun.’

 

  1. ‘Shout’ – The Isley Brothers

Key Lyrics: ‘You know you make me wanna shout!’

 

  1. ‘Bad Romance’ – Lady Gaga

Key Lyrics: ‘I want your love and I want your revenge / You and me could write a bad romance.’

 

  1. ‘You Shook Me All Night Long’ – AC/DC

Key Lyrics: ‘You shook me all night long.’

 

  1. ‘Let’s Get Loud’ – Jennifer Lopez

Key Lyrics: ‘Let’s get loud, let’s get loud.’

 

  1. ‘Take On Me’ – A-ha

Key Lyrics: ‘Oh, I’ll be comin’ for your love, okay.’

 

  1. ‘Pour Some Sugar on Me’ – Def Leppard

Key Lyrics: ‘Pour some sugar on me / In the name of love.’

 

  1. ‘Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!’ – ABBA

Key Lyrics: ‘Gimme, gimme, gimme a man after midnight.’

 

  1. ‘Mr. Brightside’ – The Killers

Key Lyrics: ‘Jealousy, turning saints into the sea.’

 

  1. ‘Dancing with a Stranger’ – Sam Smith & Normani

Key Lyrics: ‘Look what you made me do, I’m with somebody new.’

20 wedding reception classics

  1. ‘Respect’ – Aretha Franklin

Key Lyrics: ‘R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me.’

 

  1. ‘Brown Eyed Girl’ – Van Morrison

Key Lyrics: ‘You’re my brown-eyed girl.’

 

  1. ‘Twist and Shout’ – The Beatles

Key Lyrics: ‘Come on, come on, come on, baby now.’

 

  1. ‘Rock Around the Clock’ – Bill Haley & His Comets

Key Lyrics: ‘We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight.’

 

  1. ‘Celebration’ – Kool & the Gang

Key Lyrics: ‘Celebrate good times, come on!’

 

  1. ‘Jailhouse Rock’ – Elvis Presley

Key Lyrics: ‘Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.’

 

  1. ‘Great Balls of Fire’ – Jerry Lee Lewis

Key Lyrics: ‘Goodness, gracious, great balls of fire!’

 

  1. ‘Stayin’ Alive’ – Bee Gees

Key Lyrics: ‘Ah, ha, ha, ha, stayin’ alive, stayin’ alive.’

 

  1. ‘I Will Survive’ – Gloria Gaynor

Key Lyrics: ‘Oh no, not I, I will survive.’

 

  1. ‘Y.M.C.A.’ – Village People

Key Lyrics: ‘It’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A.’

 

  1. ‘We Are Family’ – Sister Sledge

Key Lyrics: ‘We are family, I got all my sisters with me.’

 

  1. ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Key Lyrics: ‘Sweet home Alabama, where the skies are so blue.’

 

  1. ‘Build Me Up Buttercup’ – The Foundations

Key Lyrics: ‘Why do you build me up, buttercup, baby?’

 

  1. ‘Rehab’ – Amy Winehouse

    Key Lyrics: ‘Yes, I’ve been black, but when I come back, you’ll know, know, know.’

 

  1. ‘Proud Mary’ – Tina Turner

Key Lyrics: ‘Big wheels keep on turning.’

 

  1. ‘Good Times’ – Chic

Key Lyrics: ‘These are the good times.’

 

  1. ‘Summer of ’69’ – Bryan Adams

Key Lyrics: ‘Oh, when I look back now.’

 

  1. ‘I Want You Back’ – Jackson 5

Key Lyrics: ‘Oh baby, give me one more chance.’

 

  1. ‘I’m Coming Out’ – Diana Ross

Key Lyrics: ‘I’m coming out, I want the world to know.’

 

  1. ‘American Girl’ – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Key Lyrics: ‘She was an American girl.’

15 songs that older guests can dance to

  1. ‘Unforgettable’ – Nat King Cole

Key Lyrics: ‘Unforgettable, that’s what you are / Unforgettable, though near or far.’

 

  1. ‘The Way You Look Tonight’ – Frank Sinatra

Key Lyrics: ‘Some day, when I’m awfully low / When the world is cold, I will feel a glow just thinking of you.’

 

  1. ‘My Girl’ – The Temptations

Key Lyrics: ‘I’ve got sunshine on a cloudy day / When it’s cold outside, I’ve got the month of May.’

 

  1. ‘What a Wonderful World’ – Louis Armstrong

Key Lyrics: ‘I see trees of green, red roses too / I see them bloom for me and you / And I think to myself, what a wonderful world.’

 

  1. ‘In the Mood’ – Glenn Miller

Key Lyrics: (Instrumental – known for its iconic swing melody and lively rhythm.)

 

  1. ‘Stand by Me’ – Ben E. King

Key Lyrics: ‘If the sky that we look upon should tumble and fall / Or the mountain should crumble to the sea / I won’t cry, I won’t cry, no, I won’t shed a tear.’

 

  1. ‘You Make Me Feel So Young’ – Frank Sinatra

Key Lyrics: ‘You make me feel so young / You make me feel like spring has sprung.’

 

  1. ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’ – Frankie Valli

Key Lyrics: ‘You’re just too good to be true / Can’t take my eyes off of you.’

 

  1. ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ – Frank Sinatra

Key Lyrics: ‘Fly me to the moon, let me play among the stars / Let me see what spring is like on Jupiter and Mars.’

 

  1. ‘The Twist’ – Chubby Checker

Key Lyrics: ‘Come on baby, let’s do the twist / Take me by my little hand and go like this.’

 

  1. ‘Blue Suede Shoes’ – Elvis Presley

Key Lyrics: ‘Well, you can do anything but lay off of my blue suede shoes.’

 

  1. ‘Dancing in the Street’ – Martha and the Vandellas

Key Lyrics: ‘Calling out around the world, are you ready for a brand new beat? / Summer’s here and the time is right for dancing in the street.’

 

  1. ‘La Bamba’ – Ritchie Valens

Key Lyrics: ‘Para bailar la Bamba, se necesita una poca de gracia.’

 

  1. ‘I Only Have Eyes for You’ – The Flamingos

Key Lyrics: ‘Are the stars out tonight? / I don’t know if it’s cloudy or bright / ‘Cause I only have eyes for you.’

 

  1. ‘Runaround Sue’ – Dion

Key Lyrics: ‘Here’s my story, it’s sad but true / It’s about a girl that I once knew.’

15 funny songs to play at a wedding reception

  1. ‘Another One Bites the Dust’ – Queen

Key Lyrics: ‘Another one bites the dust / And another one gone, and another one gone, another one bites the dust.’

 

  1. ‘Love Stinks’ – J. Geils Band

Key Lyrics: ‘You love her, but she loves him / And he loves somebody else, you just can’t win.’

 

  1. ‘Hit the Road Jack’ – Ray Charles

Key Lyrics: ‘Hit the road Jack, and don’t you come back no more, no more, no more, no more.’

 

  1. ‘Before He Cheats’ – Carrie Underwood

Key Lyrics: ‘I dug my key into the side of his pretty little souped-up four-wheel drive.’

 

  1. ‘Gold Digger’ – Kanye West ft. Jamie Foxx

Key Lyrics: ‘Now I ain’t sayin’ she a gold digger / But she ain’t messin’ with no broke…’

 

  1. ‘Highway to Hell’ – AC/DC

Key Lyrics: ‘I’m on the highway to hell.’

 

  1. ‘It Wasn’t Me’ – Shaggy

Key Lyrics: ‘But she caught me on the counter / It wasn’t me.’

 

  1. ‘Hot in Herre’ – Nelly

Key Lyrics: ‘It’s gettin’ hot in here, so take off all your clothes.’

 

  1. ‘Big Poppa’ – The Notorious B.I.G.

Key Lyrics: ‘I love it when you call me Big Poppa.’

 

  1. ‘Macarena’ – Los Del Río

Key Lyrics: ‘Heeey, macarena!’

 

  1. ‘I’m Too Sexy’ – Right Said Fred

Key Lyrics: ‘I’m too sexy for my shirt, too sexy for my shirt, so sexy it hurts.’

 

  1. ‘Who Let the Dogs Out’ – Baha Men

Key Lyrics: ‘Who let the dogs out? Woof, woof, woof, woof, woof.’

 

  1. ‘Getting jiggy wit It’ – Will Smith

    Key Lyrics: ‘On your mark, ready, set, let’s go / Dancefloor pro, I know you know.’

 

  1. ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’ – The Proclaimers

Key Lyrics: ‘But I would walk 500 miles / And I would walk 500 more.’

 

  1. ‘Oops!… I Did It Again’ – Britney Spears

Key Lyrics: ‘Oops!… I did it again, I played with your heart, got lost in the game.’

15 underrated songs to play at a wedding reception

  1. ‘Electric Love’ – BØRNS

Key Lyrics: ‘Baby, you’re like lightning in a bottle / I can’t let you go now that I got it.’

 

  1. ‘Good as Hell’ – Lizzo

Key Lyrics: ‘If he don’t love you anymore / Just walk your fine self out the door.’

 

  1. ‘Love on Top’ – Beyoncé

Key Lyrics: ‘Baby, it’s you / You’re the one I love, you’re the one I need.’

 

  1. ‘Some Kind of Wonderful’ – Grand Funk Railroad

Key Lyrics: ‘When I hold her in my arms, you know she sets my soul on fire.’

 

  1. ‘Somebody To Love Me’ – Mark Ronson feat. Boy George

Key Lyrics: ‘I don’t wanna see you go / I want somebody to love me.’

 

  1. ‘I Wanna Be Your Lover’ – Prince

Key Lyrics: ‘I wanna be your lover, I wanna be the only one that makes you come running.’

 

  1. ‘Feel It Still’ – Portugal. The Man

Key Lyrics: ‘Ooh, I’m a rebel just for kicks now / I’ve been feelin’ it since 1966 now.’

 

  1. ‘My Type’ – Saint Motel

Key Lyrics: ‘You’re just my type / Oh, you got a pulse and you are breathing.’

 

  1. ‘Sh-Boom’ – The Chords

Key Lyrics: ‘Life could be a dream, if I could take you up in paradise up above.’

 

  1. ‘You & Me’ – Disclosure ft. Eliza Doolittle

Key Lyrics: ‘When I’m with you, it’s all good / It’s all good, all good.’

 

  1. ‘Little of Your Love’ – HAIM

Key Lyrics: ‘I need just a little of your love / I need just a little of your love.’

 

  1. ‘Ho Hey’ – The Lumineers

Key Lyrics: ‘I belong with you, you belong with me, you’re my sweetheart.’

 

  1. ‘Dancing in the Moonlight’ – King Harvest

Key Lyrics: ‘Dancing in the moonlight / Everybody’s feeling warm and bright.’

 

  1. ‘Out of My League’ – Fitz and The Tantrums

Key Lyrics: ‘From time to time I pinch myself / Because I think my girl mistakes me for somebody else.’

 

  1. ‘Firestone’ – Kygo ft. Conrad Sewell

Key Lyrics: ‘We light up the world / We were fire and stone.’

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The 200 Best Wedding Ceremony Songs

Music plays a huge role in your wedding. From the moment your day begins to the moment everyone stumbles home at the end of a long night celebrating, there aren’t many parts of your wedding when music isn’t playing in some capacity.

And this goes for your wedding ceremony, too. Of course, one of the most important pieces of music at your wedding is the music you walk down the aisle to. But, there are plenty of other songs that will play during the ceremony itself.

But, exactly what songs play at a wedding ceremony and what songs should you pick to feature in your big day? There’s almost an endless choice out there, so narrowing it down can be a pretty tricky decision.

In this article, we’re going to run through the 200 best wedding ceremony songs, to make sure your ceremony is memorable, romantic and full of your personalities.

When are songs played during your wedding ceremony?

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Songs play at various points throughout your wedding ceremony. They’ll play to welcome your guests into the venue while they find their seats and they’ll play as you and your new spouse leave alongside the applause of your elated guests. Music plays a big part in your celebrations and is woven into some of the most important moments.

Here are when songs are usually played during a wedding ceremony:

  • Prelude: Usually between 15 and 30 minutes before the ceremony begins as guests begin to enter and take their seats.
  • Processional: As the members of the wedding party enter. A separate song may then play as the bride walks down the aisle.
  • Hymns/religious songs: In a religious ceremony, hymns and songs may be performed at certain points.
  • Interludes: Music will often play as the couple signs the wedding register to provide background sound and entertain guests.
  • Recessional: Once the couple is declared married and they leave the ceremony, an upbeat song will usually accompany them.
  • Postlude: Music will often play as guests leave the ceremony venue.

How many songs do you need to choose for your wedding ceremony?

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The number of songs you need to choose depends on the length of your ceremony and at what points you would like music to play.

  • During the prelude, there will often be between 6 and 12 songs, depending on the length and how soon before the start of the ceremony you’d like the music to begin.
  • During the processional, there will be a maximum of two songs, including the song you walk down the aisle to.
  • If you have a religious ceremony, there are usually approximately two songs or hymns.
  • During an interlude, such as when you’re signing the register, there will be time for one or two songs.
  • During the recessional, one song will play.
  • During the postlude, one or two songs will play, as this is usually enough time for your guests to leave the ceremony venue after you.

In total, there are usually between 10 and 15 songs that will play during your wedding ceremony.

How to choose the perfect wedding ceremony songs

Photo © Tom Cullen Photography | See their Bridebook profile

Choosing the perfect wedding ceremony songs will depend on your taste and the style, formality and format of your wedding. Here are some things to think about to make sure you choose the best songs for your ceremony:

  • Think about the key moments in your ceremony when music will help add romance, emotion and entertainment for your guests.
  • Try to match your musical choices with the overall theme and style of your wedding. For example, with a movie-centric theme, you’ll likely want to choose music used in your favourite movies.
  • Think about the acoustics of your venue and how different genres of music will sound.
  • Try to choose music that reflects both your personalities and holds special meaning for you as a couple.
  • Ensure there’s variation when it comes to tempo and tone. Try and tell a story with a beginning, middle and end.
  • Consider your guests and what sort of songs they might like to listen to as well.
  • Test your choices together and make sure they complement each other.

200 of the best songs to include in your wedding ceremony

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When it comes to your wedding ceremony, you call the shots. And when it comes to the music at your ceremony, there are so many options available to you that it can be a rather daunting task to whittle  your choices down to just a handful.

That’s where we come in. Below, we’ve run down our picks for 200 of the best wedding ceremony songs to help ensure you have a memorable ceremony.

50 best guest arrival songs

Before the ceremony begins, music will play as your guests enter the venue and take their seats. The music that plays helps set the scene for what’s to come, so here are our picks for 50 of the best guest arrival songs.

Classic love songs

  1. ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ – Elvis Presley

Key lyrics: ‘Take my hand, take my whole life too / For I can’t help falling in love with you.’

 

  1. ‘Unchained Melody’ – The Righteous Brothers

Key lyrics: ‘Oh, my love, my darling / I’ve hungered for your touch.’

 

  1. ‘Endless Love’ – Diana Ross & Lionel Richie

Key lyrics: ‘My love, there’s only you in my life / The only thing that’s bright.’

 

  1. ‘At Last’ – Etta James

Key lyrics: ‘At last, my love has come along / My lonely days are over.’

 

  1. ‘The Way You Look Tonight’ – Frank Sinatra

Key lyrics: ‘With each word, your tenderness grows / Tearing my fear apart.’

Modern romantic songs

  1. ‘Perfect’ – Ed Sheeran

Key lyrics: ‘We were just kids when we fell in love / Not knowing what it was.’

 

  1. ‘All of Me’ – John Legend

Key lyrics: ‘Cause all of me loves all of you / Love your curves and all your edges.’

 

  1. ‘A Thousand Years’ – Christina Perri

Key lyrics: ‘I have died every day waiting for you / Darling, don’t be afraid.’

 

  1. ‘You Are the Reason’ – Calum Scott & Leona Lewis

Key lyrics: ‘I’d climb every mountain / And swim every ocean.’

 

  1. ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’ – James Arthur

Key lyrics: ‘I knew I loved you then, but you’d never know / ‘Cause I played it cool.’

Acoustic and indie songs

  1. ‘First Day of My Life’ – Bright Eyes

Key lyrics: ‘Yours was the first face that I saw / I think I was blind before I met you.’

 

  1. ‘Better Together’ – Jack Johnson

Key lyrics: ‘Love is the answer, at least for most of the questions in my heart.’

 

  1. ‘Home’ – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

Key lyrics: ‘Home, let me come home / Home is wherever I’m with you.’

 

  1. ‘I Choose You’ – Sara Bareilles

Key lyrics: ‘Tell the world that we finally got it all right / I choose you.’

 

  1. ‘Lucky’ – Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat

Key lyrics: ‘Lucky I’m in love with my best friend / Lucky to have been where I have been.’

Instrumental songs

  1. ‘Meant to Be’ – Steve Petrunak
  2. ‘Canon in D’ – Johann Pachelbel
  3. ‘Moon River’ (Instrumental) – Henry Mancini
  4. ‘River Flows in You’ – Yiruma
  5. ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ (Instrumental) – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

Pop and contemporary hits

  1. ‘Halo’ – Beyoncé

Key lyrics: ‘I can see your halo / You know you’re my saving grace.’

 

  1. ‘Love on Top’ – Beyoncé

Key lyrics: ‘Baby, it’s you / You’re the one I love.’

 

  1. ‘Marry You’ – Bruno Mars

Key lyrics: ‘Hey baby, I think I wanna marry you.’

 

  1. ‘I’m Yours’ – Jason Mraz

Key lyrics: ‘Well, you done, done me in; you bet I felt it / I tried to be chill.’

 

  1. ‘Falling Like the Stars’ – James Arthur

Key lyrics: ‘I swear to God, when I come home / I’m gonna hold you like I’m never gonna let you go.’

Soul and R&B classics

  1. ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

Key lyrics: ‘Ain’t no mountain high, ain’t no valley low, ain’t no river wide enough, baby.’

 

  1. ‘For Once in My Life’ – Stevie Wonder

Key lyrics: ‘For once in my life, I have someone who needs me.’

 

  1. ‘You Make My Dreams’ – Hall & Oates

Key lyrics: ‘What I want, you’ve got / And it might be hard to handle.’

 

  1. ‘This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)’ – Natalie Cole

Key lyrics: ‘This will be an everlasting love / This will be the one I’ve waited for.’

 

  1. ‘Let’s Stay Together’ – Al Green

Key lyrics: ‘I’m so in love with you / Whatever you want to do is alright with me.’

Feel-good songs

  1. ‘Here Comes the Sun’ – The Beatles

Key lyrics: ‘Here comes the sun, and I say / It’s alright.’

 

  1. ‘Count on Me’ – Bruno Mars

Key lyrics: ‘You can count on me like 1, 2, 3 / I’ll be there.’

 

  1. ‘Isn’t She Lovely’ – Stevie Wonder

Key lyrics: ‘Isn’t she lovely? Isn’t she wonderful?’

 

  1. ‘Happy’ – Pharrell Williams

Key lyrics: ‘Because I’m happy / Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof.’

 

  1. ‘Love Someone’ – Lukas Graham

Key lyrics: ‘Cause when you love someone / You open up your heart.’

Timeless instrumental classics

  1. ‘Arioso’ – J.S. Bach
  2. ‘Marry Me’ – United Guitar Players
  3. ‘Spring’ from The Four Seasons – Vivaldi
  4. ‘Air on the G String’ – J.S. Bach
  5. ‘Serenade’ – Franz Schubert

Soft rock and folk

  1. ‘Sweet Child O’ Mine’ – Guns N’ Roses

Key lyrics: ‘Where do we go? Where do we go now?’

 

  1. ‘Forever Young’ – Rod Stewart

Key lyrics: ‘May the good Lord be with you / Down every road you roam.’

 

  1. ‘Stand by Me’ – Ben E. King

Key lyrics: ‘So darling, darling stand by me / Oh, stand by me.’

 

  1. ‘Better Together’ – Luke Combs

Key lyrics: ‘Some things just go better together / And probably always will.’

 

  1. ‘Ho Hey’ – The Lumineers

Key lyrics: ‘I belong with you, you belong with me / You’re my sweetheart.’

Romantic songs

  1. ‘Kiss Me’ – Sixpence None the Richer

Key lyrics: ‘Kiss me beneath the milky twilight / Lead me out on the moonlit floor.’

 

  1. ‘The Luckiest’ – Ben Folds

Key lyrics: ‘I am the luckiest / What if I’d been born fifty years before you in a house on a street where you lived?’

 

  1. ‘Better Together’ – Us The Duo

    Key lyrics: ‘Mmm, it’s always better when we’re together.’

 

  1. ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’ – Frankie Valli

Key lyrics: ‘You’re just too good to be true / Can’t take my eyes off of you.’

 

  1. ‘Real Love’ – The Beatles

Key lyrics: ‘Seems that all I really was doing was waiting for love.’

25 best wedding processional songs

Set the mood and let your guests know that your special moment is about to begin with a processional song that hits home as your nearest and dearest walk down the aisle. But what sort of vibes should you go for? Here are 25 of the best wedding processional songs for you to consider.

Romantic classics

  1. ‘Songbird’ – Fleetwood Mac

Key lyrics: ‘And I wish you all the love in the world / But most of all, I wish it from myself.’

 

  1. ‘Here, There and Everywhere’ – The Beatles

Key lyrics: ‘I want her everywhere / And if she’s beside me I know I need never care.’

 

  1. ‘Something’ – The Beatles

Key lyrics: ‘Something in the way she moves / Attracts me like no other lover.’

 

  1. ‘Unforgettable’ – Nat King Cole

Key lyrics: ‘That’s why, darling, it’s incredible / That someone so unforgettable thinks that I am unforgettable too.’

 

  1. ‘La Vie en Rose’ – Édith Piaf

Key lyrics: ‘When you kiss me, heaven sighs / And though I close my eyes, I see la vie en rose.’

Modern love songs

  1. ‘Beyond’ – Leon Bridges

Key lyrics: ‘I’m scared to death that she might be it / That the love is real, that the shoe might fit.’

 

  1. ‘Lover’ – Taylor Swift (Acoustic Version)

Key lyrics: ‘Can I go where you go? / Can we always be this close forever and ever?’

 

  1. ‘The One’ – Kodaline

Key lyrics: ‘You make my heart feel like it’s summer / When the rain is pouring down.’

 

  1. ‘Forever’ – Ben Harper

Key lyrics: ‘Not talking about a year, no, not three or four / I don’t want that kind of forever in my life anymore.’

 

  1. ‘Everything’ – Michael Bublé

Key lyrics: ‘And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times / It’s you, it’s you, you make me sing.’

Instrumental covers of pop songs

  1. ‘The Book of Love’ (Instrumental) – Peter Gabriel
  2. ‘You Are So Beautiful’ (Instrumental) – Joe Cocker
  3. ‘Wildest Dreams’ (Instrumental) – Taylor Swift
  4. ‘Yellow’ (Instrumental) – Coldplay
  5. ‘Latch’ (Acoustic Instrumental) – Sam Smith

Indie and folk

  1. ‘Home’ – Phillip Phillips

Key lyrics: ‘Just know you’re not alone / ‘Cause I’m gonna make this place your home.’

 

  1. ‘Bloom’ – The Paper Kites

Key lyrics: ‘Can I be close to you?’

 

  1. ‘Sea of Love’ – Cat Power

Key lyrics: ‘Come with me, my love / To the sea, the sea of love.’

 

  1. ‘Better Place’ – Rachel Platten

Key lyrics: ‘And the world’s a little bit brighter with you.’

 

  1. ‘I Get to Love You’ – Ruelle

Key lyrics: ‘I get to love you / It’s the best thing that I’ll ever do.’

Instrumental film soundtracks

  1. ‘Time’ – Hans Zimmer (from Inception)
  2. ‘A Million Dreams’ – The Piano Guys (from The Greatest Showman)
  3. ‘Dawn’ – Dario Marianelli (from Pride & Prejudice)
  4. ‘Portals’ – Alan Silvestri (from Avengers: Endgame)
  5. ‘Falling Slowly’ (Instrumental) – Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová (from Once)

50 of the best songs to walk down the aisle to

The song you walk down the aisle to is probably the one song you’ll think about the most throughout your wedding planning process. It’s likely to be a song that you and your partner never ever forget and will always be something that raises a smile whenever you hear it.

Because this is such a big decision, it’s hard to narrow it down. Below are 50 songs you may want to walk down the aisle to, but for even more inspiration, read our complete guide to the best songs to walk down the aisle to.

Classical instrumentals

  1. ‘Canon in D’ – Johann Pachelbel
  2. ‘Clair de Lune’ – Claude Debussy
  3. ‘Ave Maria’ – Franz Schubert
  4. ‘Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring’ – J.S. Bach
  5. ‘Air on the G String’ – J.S. Bach
  6. ‘The Four Seasons: Winter’ – Antonio Vivaldi
  7. ‘Largo’ from Xerxes – Handel
  8. ‘Trumpet Voluntary’ – Jeremiah Clarke
  9. ‘Ode to Joy’ – Beethoven
  10. ‘Wedding March’ – Felix Mendelssohn

Modern instrumentals

  1. ‘Turning Page’ – Sleeping at Last
  2. ‘A Thousand Years’ (Instrumental) – Christina Perri
  3. ‘All of Me’ (Instrumental) – John Legend
  4. ‘Perfect’ (Instrumental) – Ed Sheeran
  5. ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ (Instrumental) – Elvis Presley
  6. ‘Marry Me’ (Instrumental) – Train
  7. ‘Here Comes the Sun’ (Instrumental) – The Beatles
  8. ‘Halo’ (Instrumental) – Beyoncé
  9. ‘Thinking Out Loud’ (Instrumental) – Ed Sheeran
  10. ‘Marry You’ Canon – Wedding Mashup

Acoustic versions of pop songs

  1. ‘I’m Yours’ (Acoustic) – Jason Mraz
  2. ‘Make You Feel My Love’ (Acoustic) – Adele
  3. ‘You Are the Reason’ (Instrumental) – Calum Scott
  4. ‘Stand by Me’ (Instrumental) – Ben E. King
  5. ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’ (Instrumental) – James Arthur
  6. ‘Love Story’ (Acoustic) – Taylor Swift
  7. ‘Ho Hey’ (Instrumental) – The Lumineers
  8. ‘Best Day of My Life’ (Acoustic) – American Authors
  9. ‘I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing’ (Instrumental) – Aerosmith
  10. ‘Can You Feel the Love Tonight’ (Instrumental) – Elton John

Indie instrumentals

  1. ‘Young and Beautiful’ – Lana Del Rey
  2. ‘To Build a Home’ (Instrumental) – The Cinematic Orchestra
  3. ‘First Day of My Life’ (Instrumental) – Bright Eyes
  4. ‘Your Hand in Mine’ – Explosions in the Sky
  5. ‘Reverie’ – Claude Debussy
  6. ‘The Ludlows’ – James Horner
  7. ‘Love Me Tender’ (Instrumental) – Elvis Presley
  8. ‘Somewhere Only We Know’ (Instrumental) – Keane
  9. ‘Heartbeats’ (Instrumental) – José González
  10. ‘Bittersweet Symphony’ (Instrumental) – The Verve

Movie soundtracks

  1. ‘Concerning Hobbits’ – Howard Shore (from The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring)
  2. ‘Glasgow Love Theme’ – Craig Armstrong (from Love Actually)
  3. ‘When You Wish Upon A Star’ (from Pinocchio)
  4. ‘Comptine d’un autre été’ – Yann Tiersen (from Amélie)
  5. ‘Bella’s Lullaby’ – Carter Burwell (from Twilight)
  6. ‘Now We Are Free’ – Hans Zimmer (from Gladiator)
  7. ‘My Heart Will Go On’ (Instrumental) – James Horner (from Titanic)
  8. ‘Hoppípolla’ – Sigur Rós
  9. ‘The Heart Asks Pleasure First’ – Michael Nyman (from The Piano)
  10. ‘Married Life’ – Michael Giacchino (from Up)

25 of the best hymns at a church wedding

If you’re having a religious ceremony, you may want to include some hymns or songs and encourage your guests to sing along. Here are 25 of the best hymns to include at a church wedding.

  1. ‘Love Divine, All Loves Excelling’

Key lyrics: ‘Love divine, all loves excelling / Joy of Heaven to earth come down.’

 

  1. ‘All Creatures of Our God and King’

Key lyrics: ‘All creatures of our God and King / Lift up your voice and with us sing.’

 

  1. ‘Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven’

Key lyrics: ‘Praise, my soul, the King of Heaven / To His feet your tribute bring.’

 

  1. ‘Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing’

Key lyrics: ‘Come, Thou Fount of every blessing / Tune my heart to sing Thy grace.’

 

  1. ‘How Great Thou Art’

Key lyrics: ‘Then sings my soul, my Saviour God, to Thee / How great Thou art! How great Thou art!’

 

  1. ‘The King of Love My Shepherd Is’

Key lyrics: ‘The King of love my Shepherd is / Whose goodness faileth never.’

 

  1. ‘Bind Us Together, Lord’

Key lyrics: ‘Bind us together, Lord / Bind us together with cords that cannot be broken.’

 

  1. ‘Be Thou My Vision’

Key lyrics: ‘Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart / Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.’

 

  1. ‘When Love Is Found’

Key lyrics: ‘When love is found and hope comes home / Sing and be glad that two are one.’

 

  1. ‘In Christ Alone’

Key lyrics: ‘In Christ alone my hope is found / He is my light, my strength, my song.’

 

  1. ‘Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee’

Key lyrics: ‘Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee / God of glory, Lord of love.’

 

  1. ‘Morning Has Broken’

Key lyrics: ‘Morning has broken, like the first morning / Blackbird has spoken, like the first bird.’

 

  1. ‘Give Me Joy in My Heart’

Key lyrics: ‘Give me joy in my heart, keep me praising / Keep me praising ’til the end of the day.’

 

  1. ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’

Key lyrics: ‘All things bright and beautiful / All creatures great and small.’

 

  1. ‘Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer’

Key lyrics: ‘Guide me, O Thou great Redeemer / Pilgrim through this barren land.’

 

  1. ‘Great Is Thy Faithfulness’

Key lyrics: ‘Great is Thy faithfulness! O God my Father / There is no shadow of turning with Thee.’

 

  1. ‘Lord of All Hopefulness’

Key lyrics: ‘Lord of all hopefulness, Lord of all joy / Whose trust, ever childlike, no cares could destroy.’

 

  1. ‘Amazing Grace’

Key lyrics: ‘Amazing grace! How sweet the sound / That saved a wretch like me.’

 

  1. ‘O Perfect Love’

Key lyrics: ‘O perfect Love, all human thought transcending / Lowly we kneel in prayer before Thy throne.’

 

  1. ‘May the Mind of Christ My Saviour’

Key lyrics: ‘May the mind of Christ my Saviour / Live in me from day to day.’

 

  1. ‘Take My Life, and Let It Be’

Key lyrics: ‘Take my life, and let it be / Consecrated, Lord, to Thee.’

 

  1. ‘Come Down, O Love Divine’

Key lyrics: ‘Come down, O Love divine / Seek Thou this soul of mine.’

 

  1. ‘One More Step Along the World I Go’

Key lyrics: ‘One more step along the world I go / One more step along the world I go.’

 

  1. ‘For the Beauty of the Earth’

Key lyrics: ‘For the beauty of the earth, for the glory of the skies / For the love which from our birth, over and around us lies.’

 

  1. ‘Blest Be the Tie That Binds’

Key lyrics: ‘Blest be the tie that binds / Our hearts in Christian love.’

25 best songs while you sign the wedding register

While you and your partner sign the wedding register to make things official, you might like to play a song or two to keep your guests entertained. This can continue with the theme of romance, or could be a way to inject something a little more upbeat into your ceremony. Here are 25 of the best songs to play while you sign the wedding register.

  1. ‘What a Wonderful World’ – Louis Armstrong

Key lyrics: ‘And I think to myself / What a wonderful world.’

 

  1. ‘My Girl’ – The Temptations

Key lyrics: ‘My girl, my girl, my girl / Talkin’ ’bout my girl, my girl.’

 

  1. ‘That’s Amore’ – Dean Martin

Key lyrics: ‘Something in the way she moves / Attracts me like no other lover.’

 

  1. ‘L-O-V-E’ – Nat King Cole

Key lyrics: ‘L is for the way you look at me / O is for the only one I see.’

 

  1. ‘Just the Way You Are’ – Billy Joel

Key lyrics: ‘I said, ‘I love you just the way you are.’’

 

  1. ‘I Will Follow You Into the Dark’ – Death Cab for Cutie

Key lyrics: ‘When you dance down the street / With a cloud at your feet, you’re in love.’

 

  1. ‘Love is a Verb’ – John Mayer

Key lyrics: ‘Love is a verb / It ain’t a thing, it’s not something you hold.’

 

  1. ‘Hallelujah’ – Jeff Buckley

Key lyrics: ‘Well, your faith was strong but you needed proof / You saw her bathing on the roof / Her beauty and the moonlight overthrew you.’

 

  1. ‘Love Like This’ – Natasha Bedingfield

Key lyrics: ‘You got me feeling like I’m walking on sunshine / And it’s all because of you.’

 

  1. ‘I Will Always Love You’ – Dolly Parton

Key lyrics: ‘And I hope life treats you kind / And I hope you have all you’ve dreamed of.’

 

  1. ‘Meditation’ – Jules Massenet

Key lyrics: (Instrumental, but conveys deep emotion and romance through music.)

 

  1. ‘Nocturne in E-flat Major, Op. 9 No. 2’ – Frédéric Chopin

Key lyrics: (Instrumental, known for its beautiful, expressive melodies.)

 

  1. ‘A Moment Like This’ – Kelly Clarkson

Key lyrics: ‘Some people wait a lifetime for a moment like this.’

 

  1. ‘Arrival of the Birds’ – The Cinematic Orchestra

Key lyrics: (Instrumental, evoking feelings of beauty and hope.)

 

  1. ‘I Believe in a Thing Called Love’ – The Darkness

Key lyrics: ‘I believe in a thing called love / Just listen to the rhythm of my heart.’

 

  1. ‘Iris’ – Goo Goo Dolls

Key lyrics: ‘And I’d give up forever to touch you / ‘Cause I know that you feel me somehow.’

 

  1. ‘Adore You’ – Harry Styles

Key lyrics: ‘Just let me adore you, oh honey / I’d walk through fire for you.’

 

  1. ‘Everything Has Changed’ – Taylor Swift ft. Ed Sheeran

Key lyrics: ‘And all I know is you held the door / And you’ll be mine and I’ll be yours.’

 

  1. ‘Love Story’ – Taylor Swift

Key lyrics: ‘You’ll be the prince and I’ll be the princess / It’s a love story, baby, just say, ‘Yes.’’

 

  1. ‘Better Together’ – Jack Johnson

Key lyrics: ‘It’s always better when we’re together.’

 

  1. ‘Unconditionally’ – Katy Perry

Key lyrics: ‘There is no fear now / Let go and just be free.’

 

  1. ‘Smile’ – Uncle Kracker

Key lyrics: ‘You make me smile like the sun / Fall out of bed, sing like a bird.’

 

  1. ‘When You Say Nothing at All’ – Alison Krauss

Key lyrics: ‘The smile on your face lets me know that you need me / There’s a truth in your eyes saying you’ll never leave me.’

 

  1. ‘In Your Eyes’ – Peter Gabriel

Key lyrics: ‘In your eyes, the light, the heat / In your eyes, I am complete.’

 

  1. ‘Your Song’ – Elton John

Key lyrics: ‘And you can tell everybody this is your song / It may be quite simple, but now that it’s done.’

25 best wedding recessional songs

Once you and your other half have tied the knot, it’s time to let out a sigh of relief and switch things into party mode. So, while you and your new spouse leave the ceremony venue, you might want to switch things up with something upbeat and joyful. Here are 25 suggestions for the best wedding recessional songs.

  1. ‘Good Time’ – Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen

Key lyrics: ‘It’s always a good time.’

 

  1. ‘Shout’ – The Isley Brothers

Key lyrics: ‘You know you make me wanna shout!’

 

  1. ‘Crazy in Love’ – Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z

Key lyrics: ‘Got me looking so crazy right now, your love’s got me looking so crazy right now.’

 

  1. ‘You’re Still the One’ – Shania Twain

Key lyrics: ‘Looks like we made it, look how far we’ve come, my baby.’

 

  1. ‘On Top of the World’ – Imagine Dragons

Key lyrics: ‘And it’s too late to start over / But it’s not too late to start again.’

 

  1. ‘Celebration’ – Kool & The Gang

Key lyrics: ‘Celebrate good times, come on!’

 

  1. ‘Someday’ – The Strokes

Key lyrics: ‘I see, alone we stand, together we fall apart / Yeah, I think I’ll be all right.’

 

  1. ‘I’ve Had the Time of My Life’ – Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes

Key lyrics: ‘I’ve had the time of my life / And I owe it all to you.’

 

  1. ‘Let’s Get It On’ – Marvin Gaye

Key lyrics: ‘Let’s get it on / I’ve been really trying, baby.’

 

  1. ‘You Are the Best Thing’ – Ray LaMontagne

Key lyrics: ‘You are the best thing / Ever happened to me.’

 

  1. ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)’ – Stevie Wonder

Key lyrics: ‘I’m signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours.’

 

  1. ‘Hey Ya!’ – OutKast

Key lyrics: ‘My baby don’t mess around / Because she loves me so / And this I know fo sho (uh)’

 

  1. ‘Walking on Sunshine’ – Katrina and the Waves

Key lyrics: ‘I’m walking on sunshine, whoa-oh! / And don’t it feel good!’

 

  1. ‘We Are Family’ – Sister Sledge

Key lyrics: ‘We are family / I got all my sisters with me.’

 

  1. ‘ABC’ – The Jackson 5

Key lyrics: ‘A B C it’s easy as 1 2 3 / As simple as do re mi A B C / 1 2 3 baby you and me girl.’

 

  1. ‘Good Life’ – OneRepublic

Key lyrics: ‘Oh, this has gotta be the good life / This has gotta be the good life.’

 

  1. ‘Shut Up and Dance’ – WALK THE MOON

Key lyrics: ‘Shut up and dance with me / This woman is my destiny.’

 

  1. ‘Feel So Close’ – Calvin Harris

Key lyrics: ‘I feel so close to you right now / It’s a force field.’

 

  1. ‘Raise Your Glass’ – P!nk

Key lyrics: ‘So raise your glass if you are wrong / In all the right ways.’

 

  1. ‘Good Vibrations’ – The Beach Boys

Key lyrics: ‘I, I love the colourful clothes she wears / And the way the sunlight plays upon her hair.’

 

  1. ‘Happy Together’ – The Turtles

Key lyrics: ‘I can’t see me loving nobody but you / For all my life.’

 

  1. ‘Beautiful Day’ – U2

Key lyrics: ‘You thought you’d found a friend / To take you out of this place / Someone you could lend a hand / In return for grace.’

 

  1. ‘I Gotta Feeling’ – The Black Eyed Peas

Key lyrics: ‘I got a feeling (woohoo) that tonight’s gonna be a good night.’

 

  1. ‘Daydream Believer’ – The Monkees

Key lyrics: ‘Cheer up, sleepy Jean / Oh, what can it mean / To a daydream believer / And a homecoming queen.’

 

  1. ‘You’re My Best Friend’ – Queen

Key lyrics: ‘Oh, you’re the best friend that I ever had.’

Should you have live music at your wedding ceremony?

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Whether or not you decide to have live music at your wedding is entirely up to you, your preferences and your budget. Couples spend an average of £1,800 on their wedding music, which can be a large cost on top of everything else.

That being said, if you can and want to have live music at your wedding, it can certainly make things special and memorable. There’s nothing quite like a live harpist playing while you walk down the aisle, or having a live singer entertain your guests while you sign the register.

But, it all comes down to your budget, the logistics and the sort of music you’d like to include.

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The 150 Best Wedding Entrance Songs

So, the nerve-racking part is over. You and your brand new spouse have walked down the aisle, said ‘I do,’ and enjoyed taking part in your wedding photoshoot. Now, you’re about to enjoy an afternoon and evening of being wined and dined, listening to and delivering some speeches (okay, so maybe not all the nerve-racking stuff is over) and dancing the night away.

But, when the two of you arrive at your wedding breakfast or reception, what song will you choose to play as you make your official introduction as a married couple? In many ways, it’s just as important as the song you walk down the aisle to and the song you have your first dance to. It sets the tone for the entire evening and makes sure you enter with style and personality.

In this article, we’re going to give you 150 suggestions for the best wedding entrance songs, which could be anything from slow and romantic ballads to full-on dance numbers that get everyone clapping and cheering as they welcome you in.

Why is choosing an entrance song so important?

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When you arrive at your wedding breakfast or reception, it’s the first time you and your other half are being introduced as an officially married couple. That means you deserve to make a big entrance when all eyes are firmly on you. To do this, loads of couples choose a specific song to accompany them. This could be something that gets everyone in the party mood, something with lyrics that are special to you or something a little bit different. It can even be silly or funny; it’s really up to you.

It’s a great way to set the tone for the rest of your wedding day and get across you and your partner’s personalities. You may well be planning a fairly formal wedding ceremony, and the reception is when you can loosen up and start to have fun. And there’s no better way to do that than with a great song to kick things off!

How long should a wedding entrance song be?

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A wedding entrance song will typically play for around a minute, while you and your other half enter the venue and take your seats. That being said, if you’re having a larger wedding and therefore have a sizeable venue, it might be necessary for the song to play for a little longer than this. If so, make sure you don’t choose a song that’s too short. It might make things a little awkward if the DJ has to start the song again or scramble to find something to fill the silence!

If there’s something specific in a song that you love, you might want to start the song part way through or ask the DJ to play it a little ahead of when you want to make your entrance. That way, it’ll be perfectly timed for you to make your appearance during your favourite part.

How to make your wedding entrance memorable

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It’s not just your chosen song that goes towards making your wedding entrance memorable. There are plenty of ways to make sure your official entrance goes down with a bang and is entertaining, engaging and memorable.

Here are a few ways to make sure your wedding entrance is one that your guests won’t soon forget:

  • Plan a surprise element: This could be a choreographed dance routine, some unexpected guests or effects or something funny thrown in for good measure.
  • Incorporate lighting effects: Don’t just coordinate with your DJ on the music – see what they can do from a lighting perspective too.
  • Make things personal: Can you combine your entrance with your hobby? For example, if you’re known as a pair of movie geeks, you could walk in accompanied by your favourite film score.
  • Engage your guests: Don’t just walk or dance to your seats, find a way to engage your guests and make sure everyone is included.

What are the best wedding entrance songs?

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Ready to make the ultimate entrance at your wedding breakfast or reception? Here are our top 150 picks for the best wedding entrance songs to help you start your celebrations in style. We’ve also included some of the most famous lyrics from each song to help you make your selection.

50 classic choices for wedding entrance songs

For a vibe that’s catchy and quintessential with lyrics that truly hit home, here are 50 suggestions for classic wedding entrance songs.

  1. ‘At Last’ – Etta James

Key lyrics: ‘At last, my love has come along / My lonely days are over, and life is like a song.’

 

  1. ‘Marry You’ – Bruno Mars

Key lyrics: ‘Hey baby, I think I wanna marry you.’

 

  1. ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ – Elvis Presley

Key lyrics: ‘Take my hand, take my whole life too / For I can’t help falling in love with you.’

 

  1. ‘All of Me’ – John Legend

Key lyrics: ‘Cause all of me loves all of you.’

 

  1. ‘A Thousand Years’ – Christina Perri

Key lyrics: ‘I have loved you for a thousand years / I’ll love you for a thousand more.’

 

  1. ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)’ – Stevie Wonder

Key lyrics: ‘Here I am, signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours.’

 

  1. ‘You Are the Best Thing’ – Ray LaMontagne

Key lyrics: ‘You are the best thing that ever happened to me.’

 

  1. ‘I’m Yours’ – Jason Mraz

Key lyrics: ‘I’m yours.’

 

  1. ‘Lucky’ – Jason Mraz feat. Colbie Caillat

Key lyrics: ‘Lucky I’m in love with my best friend.’

 

  1. ‘I Choose You’ – Sara Bareilles

Key lyrics: ‘Tell the world that we finally got it all right / I choose you.’

 

  1. ‘How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)’ – James Taylor

Key lyrics: ‘How sweet it is to be loved by you.’

 

  1. ‘Let’s Stay Together’ – Al Green

Key lyrics: ‘I, I’m so in love with you.’

 

  1. ‘Isn’t She Lovely’ – Stevie Wonder

Key lyrics: ‘Isn’t she lovely? Isn’t she wonderful?’

 

  1. ‘Better Together’ – Jack Johnson

Key lyrics: ‘It’s always better when we’re together.’

 

  1. ‘Endless Love’ – Diana Ross and Lionel Richie

Key lyrics: ‘My love, there’s only you in my life.’

 

  1. ‘I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing’ – Aerosmith

Key lyrics: ‘I don’t want to close my eyes, I don’t want to fall asleep.’

 

  1. ‘You’re My Best Friend’ – Queen

Key lyrics: ‘Ooh, you make me live, whatever this world can give.’

 

  1. ‘Wonderful Tonight’ – Eric Clapton

Key lyrics: ‘You look wonderful tonight.’

 

  1. ‘Crazy in Love’ – Beyoncé feat. Jay-Z

Key lyrics: ‘Got me looking so crazy in love.’

 

  1. ‘You Make My Dreams’ – Hall & Oates

Key lyrics: ‘You make my dreams come true.’

 

  1. ‘My Girl’ – The Temptations

Key lyrics: ‘I’ve got sunshine on a cloudy day.’

 

  1. ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’ – Frankie Valli

Key lyrics: ‘You’re just too good to be true, can’t take my eyes off you.’

 

  1. ‘Unchained Melody’ – The Righteous Brothers

Key lyrics: ‘Oh, my love, my darling, I’ve hungered for your touch.’

 

  1. ‘You’re Still the One’ – Shania Twain

Key lyrics: ‘You’re still the one I run to, the one that I belong to.’

 

  1. ‘Stand by Me’ – Ben E. King

Key lyrics: ‘So darling, darling, stand by me.’

 

  1. ‘Everything’ – Michael Bublé

Key lyrics: ‘You’re every line, you’re every word, you’re everything.’

 

  1. ‘Can You Feel the Love Tonight’ – Elton John

Key lyrics: ‘Can you feel the love tonight? It is where we are.’

 

  1. ‘The Way You Look Tonight’ – Frank Sinatra

Key lyrics: ‘Some day, when I’m awfully low, when the world is cold, I will feel a glow just thinking of you.’

 

  1. ‘Kiss Me’ – Sixpence None the Richer

Key lyrics: ‘Kiss me beneath the milky twilight.’

 

  1. ‘My Love’ – Paul McCartney and Wings

Key lyrics: ‘My love does it good.’

 

  1. ‘L-O-V-E’ – Nat King Cole

Key lyrics:Two in love can make it, take my heart but please don’t break it. Love was made for me and you.’

 

  1. ‘Happy Together’ – The Turtles

Key lyrics: ‘I can’t see me lovin’ nobody but you for all my life.’

 

  1. ‘Here Comes the Sun’ – The Beatles

Key lyrics: ‘Here comes the sun, and I say, it’s all right.’

 

  1. ‘All You Need Is Love’ – The Beatles

Key lyrics: ‘All you need is love, love. Love is all you need.’

 

  1. ‘Falling Like the Stars’ – James Arthur

Key lyrics: ‘I swear to God, when I come home, I’m gonna hold you so close.’

 

  1. ‘I Got You Babe’ – Sonny and Cher

Key lyrics: ‘I got you, babe.’

 

  1. ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ – Whitney Houston

Key lyrics: ‘Oh, I wanna dance with somebody, I wanna feel the heat with somebody.’

 

  1. ‘I Will Always Love You’ – Whitney Houston

Key lyrics: ‘And I will always love you.’

 

  1. ‘You’re the First, the Last, My Everything’ – Barry White

Key lyrics: ‘You’re my first, you’re my last, my everything.’

 

  1. ‘This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)’ – Natalie Cole

Key lyrics: ‘This will be an everlasting love.’

 

  1. ‘For Once in My Life’ – Stevie Wonder

Key lyrics: ‘For once in my life, I have someone who needs me.’

 

  1. ‘Love on Top’ – Beyoncé

Key lyrics: ‘Baby, it’s you, you’re the one I love.’

 

  1. ‘Make You Feel My Love’ – Adele

Key lyrics: ‘I could make you happy, make your dreams come true.’

 

  1. ‘Love Me Like You Do’ – Ellie Goulding

Key lyrics: ‘Love me like you do, la-la-love me like you do.’

 

  1. ‘Thinking Out Loud’ – Ed Sheeran

Key lyrics: ‘Darling, I will be loving you ’til we’re 70.’

 

  1. ‘Hero’ – Enrique Iglesias

Key lyrics: ‘I can be your hero, baby.’

 

  1. ‘I Just Called to Say I Love You’ – Stevie Wonder

Key lyrics: ‘I just called to say I love you.’

 

  1. ‘Halo’ – Beyoncé

Key lyrics: ‘I can feel your halo, halo, halo.’

 

  1. ‘Endless Love’ – Luther Vandross and Mariah Carey

Key lyrics: ‘My endless love.’

 

  1. ‘Wonderful World’ – Sam Cooke

Key lyrics: ‘Don’t know much about history, but I do know that I love you.’

50 modern and upbeat choices for wedding entrance songs

Something with a classical feel always makes for a great choice, but why not go for something with a more modern vibe? Here are 50 suggestions for something a little more contemporary.

  1. ‘Perfect’ – Ed Sheeran

Key lyrics: ‘I found a love to carry more than just my secrets, to carry love, to carry children of our own.’

 

  1. ‘Marry Me’ – Train

Key lyrics: ‘Forever can never be long enough for me, to feel like I’ve had long enough with you.’

 

  1. ‘Lover’ – Taylor Swift

Key lyrics: ‘Can I go where you go? / Can we always be this close forever and ever?’

 

  1. ‘Speechless’ – Dan + Shay

Key lyrics: ‘You already know that you’re my weakness / After all this time, I’m just as nervous.’

 

  1. ‘On Top of the World’ – Imagine Dragons

Key lyrics: ‘Cause I’m on top of the world (hey) /  I’m on top of the world (hey) / Waiting on this for a while now, paying my dues to the dirt.’

 

  1. ‘I Like Me Better’ – Lauv

Key lyrics: ‘I like me better when I’m with you.’

 

  1. ‘10,000 Hours’ – Dan + Shay feat. Justin Bieber

Key lyrics: ‘I’d spend ten thousand hours and ten thousand more, oh, if that’s what it takes to learn that sweetheart of yours.’

 

  1. ‘You Are the Reason’ – Calum Scott and Leona Lewis

Key lyrics: ‘I’d climb every mountain and swim every ocean just to be with you.’

 

  1. ‘Good as Hell’ – Lizzo

Key lyrics: ‘I do my hair toss, check my nails, baby how you feelin’?’

 

  1. ‘High Hopes’ – Panic! At The Disco

Key lyrics: ‘Had to have high, high hopes for a living.’

 

  1. ‘Can’t Stop the Feeling!’ – Justin Timberlake

Key lyrics: ‘I got that sunshine in my pocket, got that good soul in my feet.’

 

  1. ‘Electric Love’ – BØRNS

Key lyrics: ‘Baby, you’re like lightning in a bottle, I can’t let you go now that I got it.’

 

  1. ‘Best Day of My Life’ – American Authors

Key lyrics: ‘This is gonna be the best day of my life.’

 

  1. ‘Beautiful Crazy’ – Luke Combs

Key lyrics: ‘Beautiful, crazy, she can’t help but amaze me.’

 

  1. ‘Forever After All’ – Luke Combs

Key lyrics: ‘They say nothing lasts forever, but they ain’t seen us together.’

 

  1. ‘Butterflies’ – Kacey Musgraves

Key lyrics: ‘You give me butterflies.’

 

  1. ‘Sucker’ – Jonas Brothers

Key lyrics: ‘I’m a sucker for you.’

 

  1. ‘Stuck with U’ – Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber

Key lyrics: ‘I’m stuck with you, stuck with you, stuck with you.’

 

  1. ‘A Sky Full of Stars’ – Coldplay

Key lyrics: ‘Cause you’re a sky full of stars.’

 

  1. ‘No Place’ – Backstreet Boys

Key lyrics: ‘There ain’t no place, ain’t no place like you.’

 

  1. ‘Higher Love’ – Kygo and Whitney Houston

Key lyrics: ‘Think about it, there must be higher love.’

 

  1. ‘Love Someone’ – Lukas Graham

Key lyrics: ‘When you love someone, you open up your heart.’

 

  1. ‘I Choose You’ – Ryann Darling

Key lyrics: ‘I choose you in a hundred lifetimes, I’d choose you.’

 

  1. ‘This Feeling’ – The Chainsmokers feat. Kelsea Ballerini

Key lyrics: ‘They tell me think with my head, not that thing in my chest.’

 

  1. ‘Home’ – Phillip Phillips

Key lyrics: ‘Just know you’re not alone, cause I’m gonna make this place your home.’

 

  1. ‘Higher’ – Rihanna

Key lyrics: ‘You take me higher, higher than I’ve ever been.’

 

  1. ‘Good Old Days’ – Macklemore feat. Kesha

Key lyrics: ‘I wish somebody would have told me that someday, these will be the good old days.’

 

  1. ‘Honeymoon Avenue’ – Ariana Grande

Key lyrics: ‘Feels like we’re on a honeymoon, honeymoon, honeymoon.’

 

  1. ‘Love You Like I Used To’ – Russell Dickerson

Key lyrics: ‘I don’t love you like I used to, it gets better every time you kiss me like this.’

 

  1. ‘Happy’ – Pharrell Williams

Key lyrics: ‘Because I’m happy, clap along if you feel like a room without a roof.’

 

  1. ‘Rewrite the Stars’ – Zac Efron and Zendaya

Key lyrics: ‘What if we rewrite the stars? / Say you were made to be mine.’

 

  1. ‘Young and Beautiful’ – Lana Del Rey

Key lyrics: ‘Will you still love me when I’m no longer young and beautiful?’

 

  1. ‘Feel It Still’ – Portugal. The Man

Key lyrics: ‘Ooh woo, I’m a rebel just for kicks, now.’

 

  1. ‘Loving You Easy’ – Zac Brown Band

Key lyrics: ‘Loving you is easy.’

 

  1. ‘Just the Way You Are’ – Bruno Mars

Key lyrics: ‘When I see your face, there’s not a thing that I would change.’

 

  1. ‘Closer’ – The Chainsmokers feat. Halsey

Key lyrics: ‘So baby, pull me closer in the back seat of your Rover.’

 

  1. ‘Grow Old with Me’ – Tom Odell

Key lyrics: ‘Grow old with me, let us share what we see.’

 

  1. ‘Made for You’ – Jake Owen

Key lyrics: ‘Like a ship without a sea, or a song without a melody, I don’t know where I’d be or what I’d do.’

 

  1. ‘You & Me’ – James TW

Key lyrics: ‘It’s you and me, it’s always been.’

 

  1. ‘Tenerife Sea’ – Ed Sheeran

Key lyrics: ‘You look so beautiful in this light.’

 

  1. ‘XO’ – Beyoncé

Key lyrics: ‘In the darkest night, I’ll search through the crowd, your face is all that I see.’

 

  1. ‘One Call Away’ – Charlie Puth

Key lyrics: ‘I’m only one call away, I’ll be there to save the day.’

 

  1. ‘Best Part’ – Daniel Caesar feat. H.E.R.

Key lyrics: ‘You’re the coffee that I need in the morning, you’re my sunshine in the rain when it’s pouring.’

 

  1. ‘I Will Follow You’ – Toulouse

Key lyrics: ‘I will follow you way down wherever you may go.’

 

  1. ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’ – James Arthur

Key lyrics: ‘I’m so in love with you, and I hope you know.’

 

  1. ‘Adventure of a Lifetime’ – Coldplay

Key lyrics: ‘You make me feel like I’m alive again.’

 

  1. ‘Meant to Be’ – Bebe Rexha and Florida Georgia Line

Key lyrics: ‘If it’s meant to be, it’ll be, it’ll be, baby, just let it be.’

 

  1. ‘I Was Made for Loving You’ – Tori Kelly feat. Ed Sheeran

Key lyrics: ‘I was made for loving you, even though we may be hopeless hearts just passing through.’

 

  1. ‘Die a Happy Man’ – Thomas Rhett

Key lyrics: ‘If I never get to see the Northern lights, I could die a happy man.’

 

  1. ‘Treasure’ – Bruno Mars

Key lyrics: ‘Treasure, that is what you are, honey, you’re my golden star.’

15 funny choices for wedding entrance songs

If you’d like to give your guests a giggle as you and your other half walk in, there are lots of ways to do that too. Here are 15 funny wedding entrance songs to inject a little humour into your big entrance.

  1. ‘Another One Bites the Dust’ – Queen

Key lyrics: ‘Another one bites the dust, and another one gone, and another one gone.’

 

  1. ‘I’m Too Sexy’ – Right Said Fred

Key lyrics: ‘I’m too sexy for my shirt, too sexy for my shirt, so sexy it hurts.’

 

  1. ‘Eye of the Tiger’ – Survivor

Key lyrics: ‘It’s the eye of the tiger, it’s the thrill of the fight.’

 

  1. ‘U Can’t Touch This’ – MC Hammer

Key lyrics: ‘Stop! Hammer time.’

 

  1. ‘Let’s Get It On’ – Marvin Gaye

Key lyrics: ‘I’ve been really tryin’, baby, tryin’ to hold back this feeling for so long.’

 

  1. ‘Sexy and I Know It’ – LMFAO

Key lyrics: ‘Girl, look at that body, I work out!’

 

  1. ‘I Believe in a Thing Called Love’ – The Darkness

Key lyrics: ‘I believe in a thing called love, just listen to the rhythm of my heart.’

 

  1. ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’ – Cyndi Lauper

Key lyrics: ‘Oh, girls just wanna have fun.’

 

  1. ‘Walking on Sunshine’ – Katrina and the Waves

Key lyrics: ‘I’m walking on sunshine, whoa-oh! And don’t it feel good?’

 

  1. ‘Love on Top’ – Beyoncé

Key lyrics: ‘Baby, it’s you, you’re the one I love, you’re the one I need.’

 

  1. ‘Mambo No. 5’ – Lou Bega

Key lyrics: ‘A little bit of Monica in my life / A little bit of Erica by my side.’

 

  1. ‘Who Let The Dogs Out’ – Baha Men

Key lyrics: ‘Who let the dogs out? Who, who, who, who, who?’

 

  1. ‘I Got You (I Feel Good)’ – James Brown

Key lyrics: ‘I feel good, I knew that I would now.’

 

  1. ‘Wannabe’ – Spice Girls

Key lyrics: ‘If you wanna be my lover, you gotta get with my friends.’

 

  1. ‘That Don’t Impress Me Much’ – Shania Twain

Key lyrics: ‘Okay, so you’re Brad Pitt / That don’t impress me much.’

15 alternative choices for wedding entrance songs

If romantic, classic, modern or funny doesn’t quite fit with the feeling you’d like to convey when strutting your stuff in front of your guests, you could think a little further out of the box. Here are 15 suggestions for alternative choices for wedding entrance songs to be a little (or a lot) bit different.

  1. ‘Home’ – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

Key lyrics: ‘Home, let me come home, home is wherever I’m with you.’

 

  1. ‘Ho Hey’ – The Lumineers

Key lyrics: ‘I belong with you, you belong with me, you’re my sweetheart.’

 

  1. ‘First Day of My Life’ – Bright Eyes

Key lyrics: ‘This is the first day of my life, I’m glad I didn’t die before I met you.’

 

  1. ‘Such Great Heights’ – Iron and Wine

Key lyrics: ‘They will see us waving from such great heights, ‘come down now,’ they’ll say.’

 

  1. ‘Sea of Love’ – Cat Power

Key lyrics: ‘Come with me, my love, to the sea, the sea of love.’

 

  1. ‘Heartbeats’ – José González

Key lyrics: ‘One night of magic rush, the start of simple touch.’

 

  1. ‘There is a Light That Never Goes Out’ – The Smiths

Key lyrics: ‘To die by your side, well, the pleasure, the privilege is mine.’

 

  1. ‘You’re My Best Friend’ – The Once

Key lyrics: ‘Ooh, you make me live, whatever this world can give.’

 

  1. ‘Latch (Acoustic)’ – Sam Smith

Key lyrics: ‘Now I’ve got you in my space, I won’t let go of you.’

 

  1. ‘Falling Slowly’ – Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová

Key lyrics: ‘Take this sinking boat and point it home, we’ve still got time.’

 

  1. ‘Dog Days Are Over’ – Florence + The Machine

Key lyrics: ‘The dog days are over, oh / The dog days are done / Can you hear the horses? / ‘Cause here they come.’

 

  1. ‘Forever’ – Ben Harper

Key lyrics: ‘Not talkin’ ’bout a year, no, not three or four/ I don’t want that kind of forever in my life anymore.’

 

  1. ‘You and Me’ – Lifehouse

Key lyrics: ‘You and me and all of the people, and I don’t know why I can’t keep my eyes off of you.’

 

  1. ‘Hysteric’ – Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Key lyrics: ‘You suddenly complete me, you suddenly complete me.’

 

  1. ‘Bloom’ – The Paper Kites

Key lyrics: ‘Can I be close to you?’

10 instrumental choices for wedding entrance songs

If lyrics it’s more about the emotions and feelings the music conjures up than the lyrics, you could go for an instrumental piece of music, which is often romantic and calming. Here are 10 ideas to give you some inspiration.

  1. ‘Canon in D’ – Johann Pachelbel

Timeless, elegant and whimsical, and makes for a romantic and gentle entrance.

 

  1. ‘River Flows in You’ – Yiruma

A powerful and romantic piece which is considered a masterpiece.

 

  1. ‘Clair de Lune’ – Claude Debussy

Dreamy, fantastical and instantly recognisable.

 

  1. ‘Married Life’ – Michael Giacchino

A piece that tugs at the old heart strings from the infamous opening scene of Pixar’s Up.

 

  1. ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow (Instrumental)’ – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

A gentle ukelele version of the Wizard of Oz classic.

 

  1. ‘Concerning Hobbits’  – Howard Shore

Light and bouncy, an instantly recognisable tune from The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring.

 

  1. ‘Halo (Instrumental)’ – Beyoncé

A touching rendition of the Beyoncé classic.

 

  1. ‘All of Me (Instrumental)’ – John Legend

A lovely version of the John Legend favourite.

 

  1. ‘Arrival of the Birds’ – The Cinematic Orchestra

A swelling and cinematic tune that is easily recognisable.

 

  1. ‘Feather Theme’ – Alan Silvestri

A gentle cinematic favourite from Forrest Gump.

10 retro choices for wedding entrance songs

If you’d prefer something with a little retro flair, there are some great crowd-pleasers for you to consider. Here are 10 brilliant retro choices for wedding entrance songs.

  1. ‘You Make Me Feel Brand New’ – The Stylistics

Key lyric: ‘You make me feel brand new, I just want to be with you.’

 

  1. ‘Twist and Shout’ – The Isley Brothers

Key lyric: ‘Come on, come on, come on, come on, now! / Touch me, baby.’

 

  1. ‘Chapel of Love’ – The Dixie Cups

Key lyric: ‘Today’s the day we’ll say “I do” / And we’ll never be lonely anymore.’

 

  1. ‘What a Wonderful World’ – Louis Armstrong

Key lyric: ‘And I think to myself, what a wonderful world.’

 

  1. ‘Just the Way You Are’ – Billy Joel

Key lyric: ‘Don’t go changing to try and please me, you never let me down before.’

 

  1. ‘Something’ – The Beatles

Key lyric: ‘Something in the way she moves attracts me like no other lover.’

 

  1. ‘You Are the Sunshine of My Life’ – Stevie Wonder

Key lyric: ‘You are the sunshine of my life, that’s why I’ll always be around.’

 

  1. ‘I Will Always Love You’ – Dolly Parton

Key lyric: ‘And I hope life treats you kind, and I hope you have all you’ve dreamed of.’

 

  1. ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ – Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell

Key lyric: ‘Ain’t no mountain high enough, ain’t no valley low enough, ain’t no river wide enough.’

 

  1. ‘Always and Forever’ – Heatwave

Key lyric: ‘Always and forever, each moment with you is like a dream to me.’

How far in advance should you choose your wedding entrance song?

There are several important songs you’ll choose for inclusion in your wedding, including the song you walk down the aisle to and the song you have your first dance to. But, the song you enter your breakfast or reception to is also important, so should be given plenty of consideration.

For that reason, it’s not something you’ll want to leave to the last minute. Think about it at least six months ahead of the wedding and make your final decision at least two months before the big day. And, if you’re planning something special, you might even want to give it a little longer than that to make sure you have everything in place. Make sure you loop in your wedding band or DJ (and your wedding planner, if you have one), so they can help you plan your big moment.

Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook

At Bridebook, we’ve helped more than two million couples tie the knot with our huge collection of tools, tips, advice and inspiration. 

And if you’re looking for a wedding band or DJ, then look no further! Whatever your music taste and budget, you’re sure to find something you like. 

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Happy Planning!

Supplier Showcase: Make Musical Memories with Future Media

In this spotlight, meet Mark Voisey, the friendly, professional and fun-loving owner and director of Future Media. With a passion for creating unforgettable musical memories, Mark leads a premier entertainment company that provides fantastic DJs and entertainment for weddings, corporate events and the nightlife industry across the South West of England (including Devon, Somerset and surrounding counties). If you’re an engaged couple looking to create the perfect musical backdrop for your wedding, then look no further. Read on to discover how Future Media brings the party to every celebration. 

Highlights of the supplier

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Future Media understands that no two weddings are alike. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a grand celebration with hundreds of guests, they’ve got customisable packages to suit every style, taste and budget. They offer first-class DJs, Saxophonists and Acoustic Acts, as well as all the sound and lighting you could want to make your day as memorable as possible. From the spectacular to the intimate, there’s something for everyone. 

What sets Future Media apart is their dedication to professionalism and their passion for their craft. Owner and director Mark Voisey sums up Future Media’s stand-out features as stemming from the people behind the business: “We really LOVE our job! We are fun, want to be there (and are honoured to be there), whilst remaining professional at all times. This is our full-time job, too… It’s not something we just do at the weekends.”

Future Media are also proud award winners, most notably: 

  • Bridebook Wedding Awards Finalist (awarded a certificate of excellence) 
  • Entered into The Wedding Industry Awards TWIA 2021
  • Regional Finalist TWIA 2018

This fabulous supplier isn’t just award-winning, but also LGBTQIA+ friendly, and identifies as a Sustainability Hero. 

The ultimate music experience

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Picture this: your first dance under shimmering lights, surrounded by loved ones, as your chosen song fills the air. Beyond the typical set, their Platinum Wedding Package ensures that every moment of your reception is infused with elegance and energy – it’s a class act to give your wedding the party it deserves!

From meal to midnight

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With a Meal-to-Midnight service, the party begins from the get-go. Bringing in a song of your choice as you enter the room for your wedding breakfast will really set the tone for the night and make for a celebration like no other. 

Unleash the wow factor

Photo © Future Media | See their Bridebook profile

For couples seeking to elevate their celebration to even loftier heights, the dazzling Diamond Wedding Package promises to deliver the ultimate wow factor.

A uniquely personal touch

Photo © Future Media | See their Bridebook profile

Owner and director Mark Voisey is beyond passionate about serving the wedding industry: “I love that you get to be a part of someone’s big day and throw a massive party for them! You see people at their absolute best and so happy… It’s really something!” He also shares his best expert advice for couples planning their wedding: “Don’t underestimate the impact of the evening entertainment on your big day. Of course we’re going to be biased, but great entertainment in the evening can either make or break your day… It’s that important!

With over a decade of experience and more than 50 weddings under their belt, Future Media are committed to making your big day truly special and try to distance themselves from the typical cheesy ‘wedding DJ’. They mix, enjoy themselves, and take into account the variety of age groups at a wedding by catering for all instead of sticking to a single generic playlist.

Secure your booking today   

Photo © Future Media | See their Bridebook profile

Elevate your wedding celebration with Future Media, where every beat tells your unique love story. Get in touch with Mark Voisey, and let their team of passionate professionals turn your work their magic. They promise to create unforgettable musical memories that will last a lifetime! For more information, view their profile and enquire today to make your wedding dreams reality. 

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Happy Planning!

The Top First Dance Songs of 2024

Looking to find out what the top first dance songs of 2024 will be, to get inspiration for your own wedding playlist? Then look no further! We’ve got the lowdown on the 25 most popular first dance songs from our Engagement Report, based on feedback from over 3,500 engaged couples planning weddings for 2024. For an overview of more general wedding trends for the coming year, check out our dedicated post on 13 key wedding trends for 2024 and beyond.

What makes a good first dance song?

Photo © Photographer Liam Gillan | See their Bridebook profile

Picking the perfect first dance song is an important decision, as it sets the tone for a memorable moment that you and your partner will cherish for years to come. While personal preferences obviously play a significant role, there are plenty of other factors to consider.

1. Meaningful lyrics

A good first dance song should ideally feature lyrics that resonate with you and your partner, and celebrate your unique love story. Whether it’s a classic ballad or contemporary hit, the words should mean something to you and say something about your shared journey and love.

2. Timeless appeal

You can’t go wrong with a timeless classic. It’s a classic for a reason, and is guaranteed to have enduring appeal beyond the day of your wedding itself, aging gracefully

3. Beautiful melodies

A beautiful melody enhances the atmosphere of your first dance. Whether it’s a slow and soulful ballad or uplifting tune, the melody should be captivating, and create a harmonious backdrop .

4. Personal connection

The best first dance songs are those that hold a special place in the hearts of the couple. Whether it’s a song that played during a significant moment in your relationship or one that you both simply love, a personal connection adds an extra layer of meaning to the dance.

5. Danceability

Obviously a good first dance song needs to be one you can dance to! While slow ballads may be traditional, and work well for slower waltzes, you can also consider a song with a lively and upbeat rhythm to inject a little celebratory energy into your first dance. 

6. Versatility

Choosing a song that accommodates different dance styles can make sure you feel comfortable and confident on the dance floor. A truly versatile song allows for a slow, romantic dance or a more lively and playful performance, depending on your personal preferences of course.

7. Emotional resonance

A good first dance song evokes genuine emotions. Whether it’s the tender lyrics of a ballad or the infectious energy of an upbeat track, the song should create a powerful emotional connection, making the dance a truly moving experience for you and your guests.

8. Cultural significance

Some couples may choose a song that holds cultural or sentimental significance. It could be a song that represents your heritage, reflects your shared values, or is a part of your family traditions.

9. Artist diversity

Beyond just the first dance song, opting for a diverse selection of artists throughout the dancing in general ensures that there’s a broad range of musical styles and voices represented. This will cater to different tastes and adds richness to the overall wedding playlist.

10. Memorable instrumentation

Memorable instrumentation, whether it’s the gentle strumming of a guitar, the soulful notes of a piano, or the dynamic arrangement of a full band, will contribute to the overall magic of the first dance. The instrumental elements should complement the song’s mood and vibe.

What are the top first dance songs of 2024?

Photo © S. G Mark Photography | See their Bridebook profile

In a nutshell, the top 25 first dance songs of 2024 feature legendary classics alongside contemporary hits. Elvis Presley reigns supreme amidst male vocal ballads and country songs.

The no.1 first dance song of the year is an old favourite, “Can’t Help Falling In Love”, by Elvis Presley – no doubt seeing a revival following the 2022 biopic ‘Elvis’ – while Ed Sheeran, Shania Twain and Elton John each hold two songs in the top 25.

Male vocal ballads are trending as well. In particular, James Arthur, Lewis Capaldi, Biffy Clyro and Clinton Kane are firm favourites for 2024 first dance songs.

Country music songs are gaining popularity, with Luke Combs and Lonestar ranking the highest.

These insights are based on a survey sent to and filled in by over 3,500 currently engaged couples.

See below for the full list, in order or popularity.

1. “Can’t Help Falling In Love” – Elvis Presley

Taking the coveted top spot is the timeless classic, “Can’t Help Falling In Love”, by Elvis Presley. This ballad, a staple at weddings for decades, seems to have experienced somewhat of a revival following the 2022 biopic ‘Elvis.’ The lyrics, “Wise men say only fools rush in, but I can’t help falling in love with you,” encapsulate the profound emotion that accompanies the union of two souls.

2. “Perfect” – Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran, a maestro of modern romance, claims the second spot with “Perfect.” The song’s sweet melodic tones and heartfelt lyrics make it a perennial favourite for couples seeking a contemporary yet sentimental first dance track, so it’s no surprise to see it ranking so highly this year.

3. “Stand By Me” – Ben E. King

A classic among classics, “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King secures the third position. Its soulful harmonies and enduring message of unwavering support and love make it a timeless choice for couples taking their first steps onto the dance floor as a married pair.

4. “The One” – Kodaline

Kodaline’s “The One” occupies the fourth spot, offering a poignant melody and lyrics that speak to the unique connection between two individuals. The chorus, “You make my heart feel like it’s summer when the rain is pouring down,” captures the essence of everlasting and uplifting love.

5. “Lover” – Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s “Lover” graces the fifth position, blending a retro vibe with modern romance. The lyrics, “Ladies and gentlemen, will you please stand? With every guitar string scar on my hand, I take this magnetic force of a man to be my lover,” celebrate the joy of finding a lifelong partner.

6. “Baby I’m Yours” – Arctic Monkeys

Arctic Monkeys’ “Baby I’m Yours” brings a touch of indie coolness to the list, offering a refreshing alternative for couples seeking a unique and memorable first dance experience.

7. “All Of Me” – John Legend

John Legend’s soulful ballad, “All Of Me”, secures the seventh spot, providing a heartfelt declaration of love. The lyrics, “Cause all of me loves all of you, love your curves and all your edges, all your perfect imperfections,” resonate with couples embracing each other’s strengths and flaws.

8. “Say You Won’t Let Go” – James Arthur

James Arthur’s “Say You Won’t Let Go” holds the eighth position, offering a tender and soul-stirring narrative of love and commitment that endures through the passage of time.

9. “Beautiful Crazy” – Luke Combs

Country music takes centre stage with Luke Combs’ “Beautiful Crazy,” claiming the ninth spot. The song’s country charm and sincere lyrics make it a stand-out choice for couples wanting a more rustic and heartfelt first dance, that still has all the feels.

10. “At Last” – Etta James

Etta James’ classic “At Last” lands at number ten, providing a soulful and elegant option for couples wanting a timeless and sophisticated first dance experience. We love the lyrics, “We love has come along, my lonely days are over”, which celebrate the joy in finding your soulmate.

11. “Amazed” – Lonestar

Lonestar’s “Amazed” holds the eleventh spot, delivering a country-infused ballad that expresses the overwhelming emotion of finding a unique love that leaves you truly in awe.

12. “You’re Still The One” – Shania Twain

Securing the twelfth position, Shania Twain’s “You’re Still The One” serenades the list with its timeless country charm. The song weaves a narrative of enduring love, making it a poignant choice for couples to affirm that, despite the passage of time, they are still each other’s one true love.

13. “Pointless” – Lewis Capaldi

Lewis Capaldi’s “Pointless” claims the thirteenth spot, adding a touch of melancholy and introspection to this list. The song’s emotional depth makes it a compelling choice for couples seeking a more contemplative first dance experience.

14. “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” – Elton John

Elton John claims the thirteenth spot with “Can You Feel The Love Tonight.” This truly iconic ballad, known for its enchanting melodies and evocative lyrics, takes couples on a romantic journey, creating a magical atmosphere that resonates with the joy and tenderness of newfound love.

15. “Better Together” – Jack Johnson

Jack Johnson’s “Better Together” secures the fifteenth spot, offering a laid-back and feel-good vibe for couples who appreciate a more relaxed atmosphere for their first dance.

16. “Thinking Out Loud” – Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran makes a second appearance with “Thinking Out Loud” in the sixteenth spot. The song’s romantic and danceable rhythm makes it a popular choice for couples seeking to strike a balance between both the modern and the timeless for their first dance.

17. “From This Moment” – Shania Twain

Shania Twain’s classic “From This Moment” takes the seventeenth spot, echoing the sentiments of enduring love and commitment that are perfect for a first dance number.

18. “Space” – Biffy Clyro

Biffy Clyro’s “Space” claims the eighteenth spot, offering a departure from more traditional ballads with its alternative rock sound, and in the artist’s own words, celebrating coming back to someone and knowing nothing has changed. The song’s unique energy provides an unconventional yet captivating choice for couples with more eclectic tastes.

19. “Simply The Best” – Tina Turner

Tina Turner’s timeless anthem, “Simply The Best”, secures the nineteenth spot, exuding confidence and a real celebration of love. Its upbeat tempo and empowering lyrics make it an ideal choice for couples ready to kick off their first dance and marriage with flair.

20. “Everlong” – Foo Fighters

The Foo Fighters’ “Everlong” brings alternative rock to the list at the twentieth spot, offering a dynamic and energetic choice for couples who want to infuse their first dance with both a classic rock ‘n’ roll spirit and a touch of early 2000s nostalgia.

21. “Dancing In The Moonlight” – Toploader

Toploader’s “Dancing In The Moonlight” claims the twenty-first spot, providing a fun and carefree atmosphere for couples who want to celebrate their love with a lively and upbeat dance.

22. “Your Song” – Elton John

Elton John’s “Your Song” secures the twenty-second spot, which showcases this artist’s ability to craft timeless melodies and poetic lyrics that resonate across generations.

23. “Still Into You” – Paramore

Paramore’s “Still Into You” lands at the twenty-third spot, injecting a dose of pop-punk energy into the list. The song’s upbeat tempo and playful lyrics offer a contemporary and spirited option for couples who want a lively and less traditional first dance.

24. “I Guess I’m In Love” – Clinton Kane

Clinton Kane’s “I Guess I’m In Love” claims the twenty-fourth spot, providing a modern and soulful choice for couples who appreciate the emotive power of contemporary R&B.

25. “How Long Will I Love You” – Ellie Goulding

Closing the list at the twenty-fifth spot is Ellie Goulding’s “How Long Will I Love You,” a tender and romantic ballad that encapsulates the timeless question of enduring love.

Start creating your wedding playlist now!

As couples step onto the dance floor in 2024, these diverse first dance songs will be serving as the soundtrack to their unique love stories. From the timeless allure of Elvis Presley to the contemporary charm of Ed Sheeran to the soulful notes of country music, the top 25 first dance songs of 2024 are sure to feature on many a couple’s wedding playlist this year and beyond!

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Top Engagement Party Games

Your engagement party is a great way to relax, unwind and celebrate your engagement before you get too deep into planning your wedding. There’ll be lots of food, plenty of drinks and loads of laughs as you spend time with your loved ones.

For many of your family and friends, it could be the first time they’re meeting. Will it be awkward? What will they talk about? What if they don’t have anything in common?

A great way to break the ice, help your guests get to know each other, and show them how much the two of you are in love is with some party games. Games bring people together, introduce some fun and excitement to the night and help create wonderful memories.

In this post, we’re going to take a look at why you should consider having games at your engagement party, which engagement party games are the best and offer you 21 ideas to help you host a party no one will forget in a hurry.

For more great engagement party tips and ideas, read our guide to throwing an engagement party.

Should you have games at your engagement party?

Photo © Jake Janes Photography | See their business website

Whether or not you have games at your engagement party is completely your choice, which can be influenced by several factors, including your:

  • Theme
  • Venue
  • Budget
  • Guest list
  • Guests’ preferences

It also depends on your own preferences and the feel you want to go for at your party. If you’re looking to host a formal engagement party with a three-course meal, you might not have the time or space to play games. If you’re hosting your party at home or in a park and things are more informal, games are a fantastic way to entertain your guests.

Then again, there’s such a wide variety of games you can play at an engagement party, some games that would suit the most formal of parties. 

Why have games at your engagement party?

Photo © SaywellHQ | See their Bridebook profile

If you’re on the fence about whether or not to have games at your engagement party, there are plenty of reasons why they can be a great idea. Below are just a few reasons why you should hop off the fence and go ahead with a few games.

  • Introduces a brilliant icebreaker, particularly if there are guests who are coming together for the first time.
  • Provides entertainment and gives guests of all ages something to do.
  • Adds an extra level of personalisation to your engagement party.
  • Ensures a fun and memorable party.
  • Prevents any awkwardness or downtime.
  • Introduces friendly competition.
  • Encourages your guests to get involved.

What type of games should you have at an engagement party?

Photo © Queen Bea Photography | See their business website

The games you choose for your engagement party should be quick and snappy, and offer all of your guests the opportunity to take part. They should be easy to understand and learn, and shouldn’t require too many complex props. The last thing you need is to spend ages explaining the rules, which could really dampen the mood.

If you’ve planned your engagement party to take part outside, like in your back garden or at the beach, make sure your games can be brought inside or you have a plan B. Volleyball is a lot of fun in the garden, but if it starts raining it might be rather tricky to bring it inside and play in the dining room.

Should you have prizes?

Photo © Swiftly Creative | See their Bridebook profile

Prizes for the winners of your games can encourage your guests to get stuck in and try a little bit harder than they might otherwise. But, they’re not the be-all and end-all, so if you don’t want to or your budget doesn’t stretch that far, that’s fine too.

If you want to offer prizes, why not use them as your party favours? You could have a couple of bigger prizes for overall game winners, like a bottle of wine or a teddy bear, then smaller prizes for everyone else, like some sweets. That way, everyone still gets a little something to remember your engagement party by.

21 engagement party game ideas to inspire you

Photo © The Little Photo Firm | See their business website

If you know you want to have games at your engagement party but you’re not sure where to start, we’re here to help. Here are 21 engagement party game ideas to give your guests the time of their lives. For more party inspiration, read our post on how to plan an engagement party.

1. Couples quiz

Put a list of questions together to test the couples in attendance. Ask progressively harder questions to see if you can trip up some of your overconfident guests. It’s a great game to play to keep the focus on you and your engagement.

2. Pictionary

All you need is some paper, a marker pen and a few teams. Except, instead of the usual Pictionary rules, make it all about weddings and getting married.

3. Trivia

It’s your night and lots of your loved ones will be there, so why not create a bunch of trivia questions all about you and your new fiance? See who from your friends and family truly knows you best.

4. Guess the year

We all have old photos hidden in the loft or sitting in albums on our social media accounts. Put a collage together and ask your guests to guess the year they were taken.

5. Karaoke

Definitely one for your guests who know how to hold a note, but a lot of fun to listen to your guests who perhaps have a little too much confidence in their abilities. Karaoke is brilliant fun if you have friends and family who don’t mind belting out a tune or two.

6. Ring hunt

Print out some gold rings and cut them out, then hide them around the venue and encourage your guests to find them. Whoever finds one wins a small prize! A great family game that gets the kids involved.

7. Ring toss

To keep it ring-themed, put some props together and throw gold rings over them. The harder or further away a target is, the more points they’re worth.

8. Photo booth

Photo booths are so much fun, and perfect if you’re holding your engagement party at a venue away from home. All it takes is a box of props and your guests will have a great time creating fun and fantastical photos.

9. Two truths and a lie

A hilarious ice breaker, each of your guests announces two things about themselves that are true and one that’s a lie, and your other guests are encouraged to identify the lie. You might find out some interesting things in the process!

10. Cocktail making

All it takes is a few spirits, some mixers, some sugar and some fruit to let your guests become mixologist sensations. See who can create the tastiest cocktail of the night, as well as the guest who will inevitably make a drink that no one wants to finish.

11. Cornhole

A game that’s becoming increasingly more popular but is super easy to pick up, as well as being quite addictive. Throw bean bags to a board and get them through the hole in the centre. A great game to play indoors or outside.

12. Newlywed game

A game that puts you in the hot seat. You and your fiance sit facing away from each other, and you each have a pen and paper. Your guests fire questions at you and you write down your answers, then share them to see if they line up. Another variation is the shoe game, where you hold two shoes (one yours, the other your fiance’s) and hold up the corresponding shoe depending on what the answer is.

13. The memory game

Ask everyone at the party to write down a memory of you. The funnier the better. Then, one by one, they’re read out and your guests have to guess who the memory belongs to.

14. Charades

A party classic, Charades is funny and can be played by everyone. Except at an engagement party, make sure all the movies, books and TV shows are wedding and romance related.

15. Jenga

Part-stressful, part-exhilarating, Jenga is a huge crowd-pleaser. Just make sure your guests play it with their glasses out of the way – you don’t want to spend all your time cleaning up spilled drinks whenever the tower of blocks comes crashing down.

16. Tie the knot

A little naughty so maybe not one for the kids, take a bowl of cherries and invite your guests to see if they can tie a knot in the stalk using only their tongues. It’s sure to get everyone laughing at each other’s skills.

17. Card games

All it takes is a pack of cards and there are a ton of possibilities. Poker, Bridge, Pontoon and even Snap for the kids. You could even use matches or sweets as currency for placing bets.

18. Casino games

If you’re going for a casino theme, you could hire a casino table and dealer to put on some proper Las Vegas-style games. All the fun and thrills of Vegas without the risk of losing all your money – which is perfect ahead of planning your wedding!

19. How many sweets in the jar

Fill a big jar with sweets and ask your guests to guess how many there are. To keep it romance related, they could be jelly lips or love hearts. Then whoever guesses the closest gets to keep the whole jar. Yum!

20. Guess the famous couple

Use emojis, photo mash-ups, anagrams or clues to represent famous couples, then ask your guests to guess and tally up the final score.

21. Don’t say ‘wedding’

Challenge every guest at your engagement party to not say the word ‘wedding’ – it’s a lot harder than you might expect because everyone wants to talk about it! If someone says it, they get a point on the board. Whoever says it the least wins.

Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook

After you’ve thrown your brilliant engagement party, you can focus on planning your wedding. Sign up to Bridebook today to plan your perfect big day.

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Wedding Planning Tips from Wedding DJ and Host Jack Quenby

Looking for some expert wedding planning advice from a real wedding professional? We spoke to Jack Quenby, a wedding DJ and host from Leicestershire, managing director of Jackstar Weddings. His team was proud to be recognised as one of the East Midlands’ best wedding DJs at the 2023 Wedding Industry Awards. Jack has also appeared on the BBC’s Ultimate Wedding Planner as one of eight aspiring contestants.

Jack’s top 5 wedding planning tips

Award Winning DJs 2023
Jack and Louise Quenby at the 2023 Wedding Industry Awards

1. Start early

Too often couples will get engaged and think there’s no rush to getting started with the planning. Even if you’re thinking about getting married in a couple of years, this isn’t very long in the wedding industry. The best suppliers and venues get booked up early and the sooner you start budgeting and putting plans in place the better chance you have of getting all the things you’re dreaming of.

2. Create a detailed timeline

Being organised ahead of the day is the best way to avoid stress and burn out. Work back from the big day and plan in when certain elements need to be finalised. When it comes to the day itself it really pays to have a strong timeline in place and to make sure your wedding team (bridesmaids and groomsmen) know who needs to do what and when. This will take some of the pressure off you on the day but will help to keep things on track if the timeline starts to slip.

3. Use the best suppliers

It goes without saying you should opt for the most experienced suppliers you can afford. Without a doubt your choice of suppliers will have the biggest impact on the day. Not only with how much you can relax, feeling confident in their abilities, but also how well your guests are looked after. If you don’t have a wedding planner the next best thing is an experienced wedding host who can help keep things on track and make sure you can enjoy every moment with your guests.

4. Think about your guests’ experience

Building on the last two points, when you’re putting together your timeline and selecting your suppliers think about the impact on the guests. I often hear from engaged couples who have been bored guests at weddings and hate the idea of that happening on their day. For each step in your timeline think about where the guests will be, what they’ll be doing and who will be there to look after them.

5. Take time for yourselves and don’t stress

So often this gets overlooked. Of course it’s your day and it’s all about you, but being the centre of attention for the whole day can be quite exhausting! It’s a great idea to plan in a few breaks where you and your partner can take five, recharge and savour those amazing feelings. If you’ve followed the previous tips hopefully you’ll be able to avoid getting too stressed on the day even if things don’t go exactly as planned. If you have everything organised and looked after by an experienced team there’s nothing you can’t overcome.

Plan your dream wedding on Bridebook

There you have the best wedding planning tips and tricks from someone who’s been there and done that. For more expert advice and inspiration, be sure to sign up to Bridebook today. We’ve got everything you need to make your wedding planning journey as joyful and stress-free as possible.

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Happy Planning!

How Much Does Wedding Music Cost? The 2024 Average Revealed

What is a wedding without music? If you think about it, music plays a major part in every wedding. It greets your guests as they take their seats, it accompanies you as you walk down the aisle, and it’s the reason why your uncle decided to do the Macarena alone on the dancefloor because everyone else refused to join him.

Music sets the tone for your wedding, creates atmosphere and gets everyone moving. But, with so many options available, should you choose a solo musician, a band, or a DJ? And what about the music at the ceremony itself?

In this post, we’ll take a look at how much wedding music costs, including the average price couples pay, the cost of various options available to you at the ceremony and reception, and the factors that affect the cost of wedding music.

What’s the average cost of wedding music?

Photo ©️ Encore – Outstanding Wedding Musicians

As revealed in our ultimate wedding budget breakdown, the average amount couples spend on wedding music in the UK is £1,800. To be specific, based on our 2024 UK Wedding Report, that breaks down to £1,127 for reception music, and £641 for ceremony music. This figure doesn’t include the costs that may come with hiring additional non-music entertainment, like magicians or dancers, which can cost an extra £800 on average.  

This cost can, of course, be much higher or lower, and depends on various factors such as the number of musicians and singers, how long they’re needed and the type of music they play. It may seem obvious, but a band that comprises five members will usually be more than a solo musician or a DJ.

If it’s important to you that there’s music at your wedding but your budget is on the smaller side, check out our blog post on saving money on wedding entertainment.

How much do wedding bands, singers and DJs cost?

The average spend may be £900, but the price you pay for music at your wedding may be vastly different depending on what you’re after.

Solo musician

A solo musician will be accompanied by pre-recorded backing music or may play an instrument such as a piano or guitar. Some great solo musicians for a wedding include Kate Ferguson and Jon Hart. Costs start from £350.

Photo ©️ Darryl J Stubbs Photography

Duo

A duo is a pair of musicians, with one or both often playing an instrument. Great duos include Mango Acoustic Duo and The Boardwalk Duo. Costs start from £500.

Photo ©️ Mango Acoustic Duo 

Band

A fabulous option for the evening reception, a live band will get your guests moving on the dance floor. Awesome bands to consider for your wedding include Down for the Count and The RockPins Pop, Rock, Indie Anthems 60’s to Now! Costs start from £1000.

Photo ©️ Down For The Count

String quartet

Welcome your guests and walk down the aisle to beautiful music by a string quartet. Many quartets even offer classical versions of well-known pop songs! Consider quartets like 4tissimo String Quartet and Crystal Palace String Quartet. Costs start from £500.

Photo ©️ 4tissimo String Quartet

DJ

A safe option for almost every wedding, a DJ will play the tunes to suit your taste and even take questionable requests from your guests. Some of the DJs you can discover on Bridebook include Iggy Davis, Disco Nyts and The Wedding Players. Costs start from £360.

Photo © Iggy Davis

Choir

A choir brings harmony and class to your wedding and is a wonderful way to begin your celebrations. Fabulous choirs include Crystal Gospel Choir and Lyrica Singers. Costs start from £300.

Photo © Crystal Gospel Choir

Bagpiper

If you’re looking to celebrate your Celtic heritage, the bagpipes are a fantastic way to include some traditional Scottish charm into your wedding. Talented bagpipers include Andrew Brian Highland Bagpiper and Spud the Piper. Costs start from £150.

Photo © Capture My Big Day

Harpist

Delicate and elegant, a harpist is a great way to welcome your guests and a beautiful choice of music to walk down the aisle to. Great harpists include Nottinghamshire Harpist and Meredith McCracken.  Costs start from £225.

Photo © Nottinghamshire Harpist

Organist

For a touch of wedding tradition, an organist (or pianist) provides just that. Organ players we love include Musical Sam Services and Grant Jones. Costs start from £120.

Photo © Musical Sam Services

Do you need a live musician for your wedding?

If you’re on a tight budget, then a live musician isn’t a must-have for your wedding – your guests will still have an incredible time celebrating your big day by throwing some shapes thanks to a DJ. But, if you do have a larger budget to dedicate to musical entertainment, then it will add a unique and personalised touch.

A talented live musician or band not only provides background music to your wedding but also works as a feature and talking point. There’s so much variation out there, whether you’re a fan of rock music, pop, classical, jazz or more. Check out our selection of wedding musicians and find the perfect musical entertainment for your big day.

How much does wedding ceremony music cost?

It’s unlikely you’ll want a band or singer at your wedding ceremony (but if you do, go for it!) but live music can add a lovely, personal touch. A string quartet, a harpist or even a bagpiper ensures a welcoming atmosphere and ambiance that pre-recorded music can’t match.

Because your wedding ceremony is one of the shortest parts of your big day, the cost of a live musician at the ceremony can be far more affordable than a musician you may hire for the entire day or evening reception. If you’re looking for a musician to perform during the ceremony alone, the costs will be around £120 – £350. The more specialist the musician is, such as a harpist, the more expensive they’ll be.

What factors affect the cost of wedding music?

Several factors can affect how much you’ll pay for wedding music, including:

  • Location: If you’re in London you’ll likely pay more than if you’re hiring a musician outside the capital. You may also have to pay an additional fee if you’re outside their usual catchment area.
  • Date: Expect to pay more for a musician during peak times, such as during the summer months and at weekends.
  • Type of music: The type of music played can affect how much you’ll pay. For example, a band will usually be pricier than a DJ.
  • The number of musicians: It may seem obvious, but you’ll pay more for a band than a solo singer.
  • Experience: An experienced performer will cost more than an up-and-comer, but is more likely to entertain your guests for longer.
  • Time: The longer you want the musician at your wedding the more they’re going to charge.
  • Extras: A lighting package, smoke, bubble or confetti machine, plus mics for the speeches, may be available for an additional cost.

Plan your wedding today with Bridebook

Sign up to Bridebook and start planning your wedding today! We have a wide range of musicians available to book for your wedding to suit all tastes and budgets.

And if you’re looking for ways to save money on your wedding music, we’ve got all the hacks you need to help you hit the right notes. 

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Happy Planning!

Supplier Showcase: Brilliant Female-Owned Wedding Businesses

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we’re shining a light on the achievements of female wedding business owners. Women have long played a prominent role in the wedding industry. From wedding planners and coordinators to wedding designers, photographers, florists, cakemakers, caterers, and more, women make up 80% of the wedding industry! Read the success stories, achievements and advice of some of Bridebook’s top female business owners below.

Mercedes | 4YaParty Weddings and Events

About Mercedes: Mercedes (she/her) is a qualified venue stylist and prides herself on having great customer service and high attention to detail. She owns and manages 4YaParty Weddings & Events, specialising in providing eco-friendly and sustainable wedding and event decor, upcycled wedding decor, prop hire, and sweet treats. She says no to balloons and no to single-use plastic. Plus, for every booking she makes, she’ll have a tree planted in your honour!

Proudest achievement to date: “Becoming an accredited member of the Sustainable Wedding Alliance, making weddings eco-friendly by being carbon neutral for 2 years!”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “Being a black, queer, disabled, female business owner comes with many challenges! But the biggest challenge I have is believing in myself and knowing my worth! Believing in the value that my service brings to the wedding industry. But I have an epic support network in family, friends, the SWA and wedding suppliers, who have become friends!”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “Meeting lovely couples from all walks of life and hearing their love stories, watching their personality as a couple unfold in their wedding decor!”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “My biggest advice for any woman who wants to start their own business is to make sure you’re passionate about whatever you choose! Running your own business is not a get rich quick route at all! It’s a very slow burner lol so if you don’t truly love it, then when it gets hard, it will be too easy to give up!”

Gemma | The Isla Gladstone Conservatory

About Gemma: Gemma is a leading entrepreneur and businesswoman in the hospitality industry with a number of nationally recognised restaurants, hospitality venues, catering companies and social enterprises under her guiding hand. She began her career in her teens, when she famously became the youngest licensee in the country. Over the last two decades she has developed a wide portfolio across the UK, successfully building iconic venues that are rooted in their communities. ****She opened The Isla Gladstone Conservatory in 2014 in the heart of Stanley Garden.

Proudest achievement to date: “They all said it couldn’t be done…A glass house in Liverpool…We have gone from strength to strength each year and have an all-women management team!”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “COVID…To see your hard work and dream stopped with nothing you could do about it. Having to break bride’s and groom’s hearts postponing their date time and time again, when we didn’t know when we could open again. It was truly the hardest time ever.”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “It’s a happy place to be. Guests arrive happy, venue looks beautiful, and we get to be one of the happiest memories for brides and grooms.”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Believe in what you do…Look for support…Employ the best people to be around you…And enjoy!!!”

Stacey | The Venue Experts

About Stacey: Stacey, a.k.a. the “turbocharged wedding booking superstar”, is founder and CEO of The Venue Experts. She comes with over 20 years’ experience in the industry. From managing wedding venues and developing businesses in the hospitality sector to hosting large-scale events at some of the East Midlands’ best-known events companies, she is ready to take on any challenge. Stacey has extensive knowledge of managing venues in-house, having had business development and sales consultant roles at properties including Belvoir Castle and Hodsock Priory.

Proudest achievement to date: “I was recognised as one of the top 100 Female Entrepreneurs to watch by The Telegraph and NatWest.”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “Starting a business in the pandemic.”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “Making a difference in the industry and being considered as one of the leading experts.”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Believe in yourself, know your worth, and remember that it is worth the risk.”

Natalie | Velvet Moon Ceremonies

About Natalie: Natalie is an independent celebrant and proud founder of Velvet Moon Ceremonies. She loves crafting bespoke, personal ceremonies that reflect each couple as individuals and their story together so far. This includes matching both the tone (be it fun and laidback, or sentimental and romantic) and theme (traditional or alternative), and learning what’s most important to the couple. She weaves all this together into their script, to create a truly unique ceremony.

Proudest achievement to date: “I’m proud that within my first proper year of weddings I already got to do one of my dream ceremonies – one themed around the video game series Final Fantasy! I love being able to write meaningful, special ceremonies for couples that reflect who they are and what they enjoy whilst they celebrate their love for each other.”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “Having 2020 as what should have been my first wedding season! Obviously everything got pushed back and it’s been slow going, but I’m proud of what I achieved last year and I couldn’t have asked for better couples to work with.”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “Being part of someone’s wedding day, surrounded by so many talented women who are amazing at their work! There’s so much build up, and being a 2023 bride myself I know how much work goes into the planning and the trust you have to have for every supplier involved to understand what you want and bring it together on the day.

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Network – there are so many other amazing women in this business who have been through what you have or struggled in similar ways. They can provide support and advice on any issue you’re facing as well as cheer you on and celebrate your wins.”

Jemma | Charlesworth Classics Ltd

About Jemma: Jemma is the proud owner and director of Charlesworth Classics Ltd. She works with couples from start to finish to choose and arrange the perfect transport for their special day. From vintage and classic London taxis to iconic Rolls Royces, there’s something for everyone. She hand-picks all the drivers herself, and prides herself on the service she provides.

Proudest achievement to date: “Breaking through the wedding car industry! I am not aware of another female director in this field local to me currently. This is still a very male dominated role, and there is still a very strong “boys’ club” mentality, which I hope will change in years to come. I have been very fortunate to have the support of my husband (which has made interactions with other wedding car companies a little easier), and to have been included with a select few individuals with whom I work very closely and experience no prejudice.”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “I think my biggest challenge/lesson has been to follow my instincts. Prior to starting my company I was a stay-at-home wife. I had no experience what-so-ever. I just knew this was something I wanted. When COVID came, I refused to jump on the panic bandwagon. I made the most of the down-time and grew my business and feel I was in a good position to move forward once normality was restored.”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “My couples! I love hearing the stories behind why my couples want to book my cars, whether it’s because we have been recommended by friends or family, or they simply just love our cars. There is always a story there and I love hearing them. Looking back at photos and receiving a review, reading the appreciation of the service my team and I have provided, there really is no better feeling!”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Believe and achieve! Mindset is one of the most important parts of owning your own business. Find other women with your mindset and work together, pick each other up. Owning your own business can be very lonely. You spend a lot of time alone so a good support network is very beneficial – you don’t even need to work in the same field.”

Nyssa | Edinburgh School of Food & Wine

About Nyssa: Nyssa is the owner and manager of the Edinburgh School of Food & Wine. She prides herself on delivering a first-class service, having a dedicated wedding team to ensure each couple’s day runs perfectly from beginning to end. She organises and manages everything from wedding catering, bar services, room set up, lighting options, and prop selection. Couples can also choose from stag and hen do packages at the cook school, ranging from cocktail masterclasses to champagne, whisky or wine tasting, to BBQ cookery and food masterclasses.

Proudest achievement to date: “Finalist for 3 wedding awards as caterer of the year.”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “Taking over the business mid-COVID and making it a success whilst also being mum to three young kids.”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “Making specials for our clients, the delight of delicious food and great service!”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Take the leap! It is so fulfilling to run your own business. It is hard work but worth every minute.”

Lily | Lily Kerbey Musician

About Lily: Lily is a passionate professional singer-guitarist who has been performing in and around Yorkshire at wedding and other private milestone celebrations for the last 10 years. A true expert in her field, she has played at all types of weddings, from cliff tops in Portugal to a DIY woodland wedding. She strives to make every couple’s day special, from singing as you walk down the aisle, to entertaining guests during the photos, and can create custom playlists of wedding songs.

Proudest achievement to date: “Singing at my first wedding abroad was very special! Also the fact I managed to get so many bookings that I could leave my full-time teaching job, which made me so stressed I got ill. I’m now happy and thriving and working at 10% of the capacity I was before.”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “Making the move from part-time to full-time. The instability of self-employed work is so scary, but now I’m in it I could never go back!

Best part about owning a wedding business: “Getting to be involved in the best day of people’s lives. Everyone is happy at a wedding, and that happiness spreads.”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Find something that doesn’t feel like work. And enjoy every moment! When you genuinely love your job, everything else in your life fits into place. Take every opportunity you can but also look after yourself and put aside time for yourself!”

Sarah | The Purple Pumpkin Cake Company

About Sarah: Sarah is an award-winning professional cake artist and proud owner of The Purple Pumpkin Cake Company. After a career in retail management, she made the inspiring decision to turn her hobby into her profession. She creates bespoke wedding cakes and fresh designs for every couple, to make your cake individual and unique to you. Having inherited baking from her mum, and now with four children of her own, family is everything to her.

Proudest achievement to date: “I’ve won two business awards alongside cake awards. Being awarded for my business skills was amazing!

Biggest challenge to overcome: “Apart from COVID you mean? Being a mother of four, then taking on the custody of my six-month old grandson, while caring for my dying mum, while running a successful business, off the back of COVID, and still smiling always!”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “I get to meet loads of excited, varied and different couples, and be part of their stories! I also love working alongside other fantastic suppliers.”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “People buy from people, so be more you. Don’t look at others and try to copy them. Be yourself, and you’ll be successful. If you’re always comparing yourself to others you’ll never get there!”

Emily | Emily’s Moments Photography

About Emily: Emily is empathetic and quirky Belgian-born photographer with a passion for being who we are unashamedly. Her commitment is pure and simple – to tell each couple’s unique story sensitively and with humanity. Based in St Albans, Hertfordshire, but working across the UK, she produces images and photo albums that you will treasure for decades to come. She has been lovingly described as “approachable, upfront, honest, hopeful, curious, quirky.”

Proudest achievement to date: “Being back at square 1 in a brand new career aged 37 and building a sustainable business from scratch.”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “Managing my own expectations of what can be achieved. Owning a business is a few full-time jobs in one with a huge variety of skillsets to be acquired over time. I have to accept that I can’t acquire them all at once. I have to be patient.”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “Being totally independent when making my own decisions to grow my own business. My daily successes are mine and mine alone to celebrate.”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Don’t ever believe any unsupportive voices…whether they come from others or from yourself. Us women have a tendency to have in-built doubt in what we are capable of. We have to fight that inner voice. We can achieve whatever we set our mind to in our own way, using our own strengths and our own uniqueness.”

Jade | Hushabye Films

About Jade: Jade is an experienced film maker, videographer and owner of Hushabye Films. She spent over 15 years in broadcast television, working as a shooting producer/director, with experience across channels such as the BBC, ITV, MTV, E4, C4, Sky and various other satellite channels, with credits on high-profile programmes including the BAFTAs, Big Brother, T4, Comic Relief and V Festival. She has also created hours of online, YouTube and corporate content. She takes a cool, calm and personalised approach to shooting wedding films.

Proudest achievement to date: “When I decided to shoot weddings, I knew straight away I was going to do things differently! I took everything I had learnt from my 10+ years working as a TV producer and used it to make wedding films that people actually wanted to watch! When I started there were no “fun” wedding videographers. There was a HUGE gap in the market and I grabbed it with both hands! I’ve now shot over 200 weddings.”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “COVID!!! We were NOT prepared for that!!! But somehow I managed to shoot some small weddings and make promotional films to earn some income and spend hours everyday moving dates and making sure I could still film all the weddings the following year whilst also shooting all the new ones!”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “Working with the clients you want to work with and being creative everyday. I love the wedding industry and all the talented supplier friends I’ve made.”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Don’t worry about what other people are doing with their businesses. Do what’s right for you and recognise that everyone is at a different stage of their own journey. Don’t carbon copy a business because it looks like it’s successful. Take inspiration if you have to but always put your own spin on it so you can be proud of your achievements.”

Harriet | Harriet Alice Fox Designs

About Harriet: Harriet is a Sheffield-based illustrator and graphic designer who specialises in creating hand-drawn bespoke wedding stationery. Working on a friend’s wedding stationery made her fall in love with the creative process. Since then, she has gone on to showcase her work at wedding fairs and attract a whole host of couples wanting something special for their wedding stationery. Harriet is passionate about creating unique designs that celebrate the wedding venue, reflect the couple’s interests, or even feature a beloved furry friend who can’t attend the big day.

Proudest achievement to date: “I’m most proud of my portrait seating plans! I’m so excited whenever couples want to work with me on them. The amount of work put into drawing every guest individual portraits and piecing it together is massive but so rewarding, and such a fabulous keepsake for the couples themselves.”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “Realising that your product/style might not be everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s a good thing. Because it makes what you do so much more unique and custom.”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “Delivering all the stationery goodies! There’s so much excitement from the couples, and I’m very grateful to be part of the buildup.”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Believe in yourself and your product. If you’re giving it 100% then your passion will shine through.”

H | Lawley Fine Jewellers

About H: As well as looking after the marketing and social media side of Lawley Fine Jewellers, H is a passionate jeweller and specialist in handmade engagement and wedding rings. She loves being at the bench and mastering the technical skills required to make beautiful pieces.

Proudest achievement to date: “Our biggest achievement is definitely the popularity and feedback of our Make Your Own Wedding Rings experiences. This year was our busiest yet!”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “Definitely the pandemic, which really hit the industry hard. We consider ourselves fortunate in that we were able to keep going. It was a stressful time both for couples organising their big days and for all the suppliers serving them.”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “Being involved in a small way in each couple’s plans – especially with their wedding rings, which will be worn and cherished every day – is something amazing and we feel honoured. Also, making such great friends with other local talented wedding suppliers has been a wonderful surprise, as it’s something we didn’t expect. Being able to support each other and recommend trusted suppliers to our couples is fantastic.”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Follow your own path and be authentic. Have each other’s backs and support each other, be it to share and recommend or offer friendly advice.”

Amy | Beewildblooms

About Amy: Amy is the founder and owner Beewildblooms, a family-run floristry business in Scotland. She specialises in unique wedding flowers and decor, as well as floral masterclasses and 1:1 classes. She is proud to have been featured in both Rock N Roll Bride Magazine and Rock My Wedding. Her style is rustic, wild, romantic, and most certainly one-of-a-kind!

Proudest achievement to date: “Starting our family floristry business during lockdown with no clients – selling £16 arrangements to doorsteps and now becoming a finalist for best wedding florist [for the Scottish Confetti Wedding Awards 2023] and being fully booked for 2023.”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “Having zero funding or savings after redundancy and building my business whilst also being a full-time mum at home.”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “Delivering a bespoke and personalised service to our lovely couples – we keep numbers small to deliver big joy!”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Be authentic – YOU are your own super power! Keep trying different things until you find something that makes you happy and fills your cup. You are running your own business for a reason, because you can and you want to – so never forget your why! Don’t compare to others as everyone is at a different stage in business!”

Becky | Lavelle Bridal Couture

About Becky: At Lavelle Bridal Couture, it’s just Becky, all the way. From booking your very first private bridal appointment to the big day, she’s with you every step of the way. Having learnt to sew at the age of 10, she pursued a career in fashion and textiles, working for various design houses and retailers before opening her own bridal boutique right in the heart Warwick. Before opening her shop, she first studied wedding dress design at the London College of Fashion, so knows exactly what’s involved in the construction and how to advise on dress customisations and alterations.

Proudest achievement to date: “My biggest achievement happens every day in my small business… The majority of women feel super nervous when it comes to wedding dress shopping, and I always feel so proud when a bride leaves my boutique with the biggest smile on her face, having had the most amazing wedding dress shopping experience with me. I pride myself on helping brides feel comfortable and confident in their own skin so they feel gorgeous in their dream wedding dress.”

Biggest challenge to overcome: “COVID was a huge challenge for any business, but also supporting brides through such tough times was very challenging at times. The uncertainty of weddings was tough to navigate but I’m very proud to say that I’ve come through it and thrived.”

Best part about owning a wedding business: “Feeling honoured to be chosen by my brides to take a part in their special day and the emotions that brides feel and experience when they find the perfect dress. It’s such a special moment and I love that I can be a part of that!”

Advice to aspiring female business owners: “Collaboration over competition, every day. I always think there is no competition as no-one can be you. Just be yourself and you’ll find the people who love what you do. If you support one another it will always pay you back at some point and then you’ll make great friends across a variety of industries who can support you through your journey.”

The wedding industry owes a great debt to the countless female business owners who have dedicated themselves to making couples’ special days truly unforgettable through their creativity and hard work. We hope that the inspiring stories and insights shared by the female business owners featured here will encourage more women to follow in their footsteps and continue to make a mark on the wedding industry for many years to come.

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Happy Planning!

How to Confirm Your Wedding Music List

Wedding Music List


The time has come to finalize your list of music with the band or DJ. If you haven’t created a playlist yet, read our guide on choosing your wedding music.

Once you have your final evening music list, pass this over to your band or DJ. If you have hired a band, they may not be able to play everything on your list but might be willing to learn a few songs. It’s best to ask bands for their song list before hiring them to ensure they will be able to play the songs you want. If you have hired a DJ however, they should be able to play anything you ask them to. You can read more about choosing a wedding band or DJ in our guide.

Once you have provided the band/DJ with your playlist, check with them if there is enough material to cover their set length. If there isn’t, they may be willing to add other suggestions to fill the gaps to save you some time. If you choose to go with this option, make sure they show you the final playlist before the big day or, alternatively, you can provide them with a “do not play” list which would include a list of songs that you DON’T want played. This is for the adventurers among us who want a musical surprise on the wedding day. This can be a fun option if you want to experience your wedding as your guests are experiencing it.

If you want to go SUPER ADVENTUROUS, try this. Provide your band/DJ with a small playlist of 4-5 songs and ask them to play other songs of a similar style. This is the “shuffle” of the wedding music world.  You don’t know what’s coming next.


7 trends wedding suppliers need to know about Millennial couples in 2018

The UK wedding market is jam-packed full of Millennials. Fact.

 

In fact, out of the 250,000 weddings per year in the UK the vast majority of couples are aged between 25-39 (aka Millennials). Source: The UK Wedding Report 2018 by Bridebook.co.uk.

And those digitally devoted information absorbers are now demanding a different approach from wedding suppliers. They’re looking for an altogether more open wedding market. They want you to overshare examples of weddings you’ve worked on – but don’t hound them or they’ll swipe left.

They might not have tons of time for you but they sure as hell want you to lay all of your cards on their perfectly designed wedding breakfast table.

#itscomplicated

So here’s the rundown of exactly what engaged and soon-to-be-wed couples of today expect from their wedding entourage for the approximate 20 months that they’ll be engaged and working with you…

1.Be online when your couples are

 

Unsurprisingly, the most popular time of the week for wedding planning is after work, with 63% of couples stating that evenings were the time they were most likely to be online.

Bridebook has discovered that the majority of enquiries are sent between 7pm-9pm so as a wedding supplier, you need to be active at these times. And of course the faster you are able to respond and interact with these enquiries the higher your conversion rate will be.

Where possible, keep an eye on your inbox over the weekend as Saturday (40%) and Sunday (37%) also show higher than average wedding planning activity.

 

2.Contact couples in the right way

For yet another year running, email is the preferred method of communication for initial enquiries (85%) and ongoing contact (88%) between couples and suppliers.

Interestingly though, half of couples also want in-person contact with the suppliers they’re working with.

However, you choose to answer your initial enquiry, remember to ask your couples how they would like to be contacted from there on and ask when is best for them in case evenings and weekends don’t suit.

 

3.Never underestimate the importance of reviews and recommendations

For yet another year running, couples have rated reviews and recommendations from friends and family (71%) as the most valuable source of information when booking wedding suppliers.

It is now more important than ever that you showcase your past work and triumphs wherever and whenever possible because 76% of couples read 8 or more reviews before booking a wedding supplier.

More specifically, 59% of couples said that they wanted to read online reviews from couples you’ve worked with in the past before making a decision on whether to contact you.

4.Understand how couples are choosing to spend their wedding budget

Did you know that the national average wedding spend in the UK in 2017 was £17,913 – excluding honeymoon? In London, this figure rises to £31,837.

So what are these big spending Millennial’s actually doing with their wedding budget?

The good news is that the money being spent on suppliers has increased by an average of 12% year on year. Consider this when reviewing your prices and ensure that you’re still pricing competitively and are not underselling your services by pricing too low.

Marquee hire (24%) food and drink (23%) and venue dressing (22%) are areas of spending that grew the most year on year.

5.Couples need interaction

The wedding industry is an unknown for most couples when they first dip their toe in our world and as such, we should be willing to guide them through the process.

 

This is the most important day of their lives and they are spending a lot of money so you have to prove your worth and show them that your business is worth investing in from the get go.

Be their friend and their partner throughout the wedding planning process. By communicating in the right way and offering the right kind of advice without being pushy you’ll ensure that couples have confidence in you and trust your expertise.

 

6.Couples depend on your photos

It is so important that you show couples what you do and what you offer with real, visual examples.

Keep your website and Bridebook profile up to date with the latest and greatest photos from weddings you’re most proud of.

Wedding venues – make sure that you’re showcasing great quality external and internal photos. If you aren’t blessed with acres of glorious grounds take photographs of other assets that surround you – whether rolling countryside or big city hotspots.

Makeup artists, wedding stylists, florists – photograph your work yourself and ask photographers and videographers for permission to use a couple of their photos or stills from the day (remembering to credit them).

Try to evoke a “that could be us” feeling with every visual you share.

 

7.Diversity is important to Millennial couples

Diversity is a problem that we are facing in the industry and we as suppliers should be tackling it head-on.

We live in one of the most diverse countries in the world and to ignore that is to ignore and potentially offend your potential customers.

As a start, be gender inclusive and try not to use phrases such as ‘normally a bride and groom have this or do that’. Consider your use of ‘bride and groom’ in the content you write and speak, using the term ‘partner’ or ‘couple’ instead.

We should be making every couple feel confident, comfortable and unique.

Wedding suppliers; ask yourselves…

…are you working with millennials or against them?  

Are you interacting with them at the time and in the ways that they want you to?

Are you showcasing your business at it’s best – including reviews and beautiful images to really sell how great you are?

Bridebook can help you adjust to what Millennial couples want and need. Set up your own Bridebook page now to start promoting your business in a quick, easy and effortless way.

 

Looking for more wedding industry trends and couple insights? Head to the Bridebook Business Hub, the home of wedding industry knowledge. 

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How to Craft the Perfect Wedding Playlist

Wedding Playlist


Crafting the perfect wedding playlist is a skill in itself. Your task is to take your guests on a musical journey that tells them a story or guides them in a certain flow of emotions.

The ceremony music is a bit more self-explanatory so we won’t discuss that in this hack. Instead, we’ll discuss playlist structure for the other 2 key (musical) points of the day.

  • Backing music for the meal
  • The dancing

Music is such a personal thing. There will be songs that remind you of certain moments in your life and instantly transport you back to that time. There will also be songs that are a shared memory for both you and your fiancé. These songs are often a great starting point for building your playlist if you are willing to share them with your guests. You can then work around them with songs of a similar style.

You may wish to place the songs in chronological order of their meaning to your relationship….. i.e. from when you met until the present day. This can be a nice touch and will be very special for you(even if it means nothing to your guests). Whether you tell your guests the significance of the songs is up to you.

The other option is to use songs that you feel match the tone of your wedding and you believe your guests will enjoy. For the meal, don’t use anything too lively. Some unfamiliar relaxing backing music is a good choice as your guests probably won’t know the words(you want your guests to talk to one another…..not sing throughout the meal). Listen to the words, not just the sound of the song! I heard about one couple who chose “Still haven’t found what I’m looking for” by U2 for their first dance! Cringe!


The evening playlist is a bit different because you don’t want all the songs to have the same tone. The best way to structure the evening playlist is like this:

  • Lively(get your guests up and dancing and working up a sweat)
  • Quiet(let your guests relax, grab a drink and have a slow dance)
  • Lively again(Once your guests have got some energy back, finish your night in style)

This is a good balance of lively and quiet. Your guests won’t be too exhausted but have had the opportunity to dance as much as they wanted to.


Book Your Wedding Music

Your Wedding Music

Booking your wedding music is one of the most fun tasks in your wedding planning. It is the soundtrack of your wedding and the backing music to your first dance! A  big deal! So it’s important to get this right. Here is a quick 4-step guide to power through this task quickly and happily, whether you are booking a band or DJ.


1. Think about the style

The best place to start with all vendor bookings is your wedding theme. The same is true for booking your wedding music. If you don’t have a wedding theme yet, we would suggest coming up with one as soon as you can as it makes your life a whole lot easier. Once you have decided on your theme, try to base your music around this. Certain themes are naturally suited to certain genres. E.g. a 70s themed wedding would be well suited to a disco/funk band, whereas a rock n’ roll wedding would be best suited to a……erm……90s pop band(obviously). Of course, it’s important to make sure you like the genre yourself. Looking at your theme will at least give you a starting point.


2. Do the research

The next step is the research phase. The best place to begin your search is on wedding directories such as Little Book for Brides or music-specific-directories such as Hireaband. An alternative approach is to use a site like Soundcloud. Most bands/artists on Soundcloud won’t promote themselves as a wedding band but you can still reach out to them and ask if they would be interested. This is a good choice if you want something a little bit more unusual.


3. Initial enquiry

Depending on how tight a deadline you have, you can either contact bands individually based on your preference or you can build a small list of potential bands and contact them all at once. Reach out with a simple email to check their availability on your wedding date, how much they charge and what their service includes(this is a good point to ask if you have any specific requests e.g. can they play a certain song). This is a casual enquiry so don’t feel obliged to book after this first email.


4. Book

Once you have found a band/artist/DJ that you are happy with(you should be happy with the music and the people), it’s time to confirm the booking. Confirm in writing, ask for any contracts that they provide and pay the initial deposit to confirm the booking. You have just booked your wedding music. Nice!


8 Important Tips For Booking Your Wedding Music

Choosing a DJ or musician for your big day is mega important to ensuring you and your guests have an unforgettable time. Whether you have a solo cocktail singer or a 10-piece jazz band, these are our top tips to remember.

Bridebook.co.uk disco ball

Research

 

Look into what you can afford in your budget and what sort of music you want as a couple. Before you set your heart on your favourite local band to play at your wedding, research into all other options before pinning your hopes on one idea. Always have a plan B too, incase the vendor you ask is not available. It is also crucial to clarify if the DJ or musicians hold public liability insurance and all of their electrical equipment is certified – if not, this could cause big problems on the day, and most venues ask for music vendors to confirm this before they are allowed to play.

 

Consider Your Venue

 

A solo singer may get lost in a huge venue, but if you’re having an intimate drinks reception outdoors then a single musician would suit this. Think about the size of your venue, how much room you can afford to reserve for musicians, and how many guests there will be listening at one time.

 

Hear Them In Person Beforehand

 

Before booking anyone, be sure to meet them and hear them play in person. This will help you determine whether they are the right fit for your special day. Ask them for any upcoming gig dates or wedding exhibitions they may be playing at and make the effort to go and see them. You can also chat to them about your expectations and requirements for your special day to make sure they are a good match.

 

Always Soundcheck

 

It’s super important to ask your musicians to get to the venue early to set up and have a full soundcheck before any of your guests arrive. Your attendees will hate standing around listening to instruments being tuned, so make sure your musicians are ready well in advance of any arrivals. Ensure there is plenty of power supply too, so there’s no sudden power cut halfway through your first dance!

 

Playlist Do’s and Dont’s

 

Ask your music vendor for a full list of their repertoire and with your partner choose which songs you want to cut. This is to avoid cringey moments when a song is played that reminds you of your ex! Also make a note of your favourite songs from the list so your musician or DJ knows your ‘must-play’ requests. If your special song is not included in their repertoire, see if your musicians can learn it especially for you!

 

Consider Your Guests

 

You and your husband-to-be may love rocking out to heavy anthems, but remember to compromise. If there are a lot of older relatives at your wedding, throwing in a few 60’s numbers will make their night – and it could be a lot of fun for all involved! Also ask to keep the song choices censored for any young guests that will be attending.

 

Think Carefully About Your First Dance Song

 

A first dance can be awkward, especially if you’re not that great on your feet, so don’t choose a super long track. It is, of course, your special moment – however four minutes of swaying back and forth can be tiresome for your guests after they have initially smiled and taken a photo. Choose a song that is special, but will also get everyone involved by the end so all of your guests can enjoy it as much as the two of you.

 

Noise Levels

 

Check with your venue about any noise limitations and the time when loud music has to cease. Relay this back to your musicians or DJ so they know how much time they have, and can fit in all the requests and encores thrown at them! Have a think where the speakers are too, so you don’t place someone with sensitive hearing in the loudest part of the room.

Happy Planning! 

 

 

Browse other similar articles: 

Wedding Prices: Entertainment

How To: Choose Between a Band and a DJ

Bridebook.co.uk Wedding Awards 2017 Winners!

We couldn’t be more thrilled to announce the Winners and Highly Commended suppliers of the Bridebook.co.uk Wedding Awards 2017!

With so many incredible and talented suppliers across our Bridebook family, picking the final winners was difficult to say the least. So we’d like to extend our sincerest warm wishes and thanks for all of those who participated – the wedding industry wouldn’t be where it is today without you!

Now, without further ado – the 2017 winners! Huge congratulations to all! (And if you’re an engaged couple, there’s no better place to start your wedding supplier search than with this fabulous list of award winners!)

Wedding Beauty Supplier of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA 2017 Winners
Amazing Face Bridal Hair & Make-Up

Winner: Amazing Face Bridal Hair & Makeup

Highly Commended: Make Up By Jenni

Highly Commended: Rachael Divers Makeup Artistry

Wedding Cake Supplier of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Yolk

Winner: Yolk

Highly Commended: Blossom and Crumb 

Wedding Caterer of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA 2017 Winners
Sojo Kitchen

Winner: Sojo Kitchen

Highly Commended: Appetite Direct 

Wedding Decoration Supplier of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Qube Events and Productions

Winner: Qube Events and Productions

Highly Commended: Twilight Trees

 

Wedding Dress and Accessories Supplier of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Heart a Flutter

Winner: Heart A Flutter

Highly Commended: FairyGothmother

Wedding Entertainment Supplier of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Pyromania Fireworks

Winner: Pyromania Fireworks

Highly Commended: Chris Cook Magic 

Wedding Florist of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
The Flower Room

Winner: The Flower Room 

Highly Commended: Hiding In The City Flowers

Wedding Jewellery Supplier of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Hey Jules

Winner: Hey Jules

Highly Commended: Form Bespoke Jewellers

Wedding Videographer of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
James Riley Videos

Winner: James Riley Videos

Highly Commended: Scott Graham 

Wedding Transport Supplier of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Fiat 500 Hire

Winner:  Fiat 500 Hire 

Highly Commended: Vintage VWs 4 Hire 

Wedding Stationery of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Wonderland Invites and Design Studio

Winner: Wonderland Invites & Design Studio

Highly Commended: Paper Tree Design 

Wedding Planner, Celebrant or Toastmaster of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Pamella Dunn Events

Winner:  Pamella Dunn Events

Highly Commended: One Stylish Day

Wedding Photographer of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA 2017 Winners

Winner:  Kristida Photography

Highly Commended: Tub of Jelly and Chris Giles Photography

Wedding Music Supplier of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Down For The Count

Winner: Down For The Count

Highly Commended: Wedding Smashers 

Wedding Menswear Supplier of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017

Winner: Roberto Revilla London

Highly Commended: DAPPER Formalwear for Men

Wedding Marquee Supplier of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Big Chief Tipis

Winner: Big Chief Tipis 

Highly Commended:  Florida Marquees

Wedding Venue of the Year

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Iscoyd Park

National Winner: Iscoyd Park

 

North East

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Newton Hall

Winner:  Newton Hall 

Highly Commended: Healey Barn 

North West

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Siren, Liverpool

Winner: Siren Liverpool

Highly Commended: Sandhole Oak Barn 

Yorkshire 

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA 2017 Winners
Camp Kutur

Winner:  Camp Katur

Highly Commended: Woodhall Hotel and Spa 

West Midlands

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA 2017 Winners
Compton Verney House

Winner:  Compton Verney House

Highly Commended: The Ashes

East Midlands 

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA 2017 Winners
The Old Vicarage Boutique Wedding Venue

Winner: The Old Vicarage Boutique Wedding Venue

Highly Commended: Ringwood Hall Hotel 

South East

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
East Quay Venue

Winner:  East Quay Venue

Highly Commended: Yoghurt Rooms

East of England

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Fennes

Winner: Fennes 

Highly commended: The Barns Hotel 

 

London

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA 2017 Winners
Spitalfields

Winner: Spitalfields

Highly Commended: Pembroke Lodge 

South West

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA 2017 Winners
Riverside Sopley Mill

Winner: Riverside Sopley Mill 

Highly commended: Elmore Court

Wales

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA 2017 Winners
Porthmawr Country House

Winner: Porthmawr Country House 

Scotland

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA 2017 Winners
Assynt House

Winner: Assynt House

Highly commended: Kilrie Granary 

Northern Ireland

Bridebook.co.uk BBWA Winners 2017
Ballyscullion Park

Winner: Ballyscullion Park 

Highly commended: Breckenhill 

Congratulations to all the winners and highly commended! If you’re an engaged couple, there truly is no better place to start than with this fabulous list of Bridebook suppliers. Be sure to check out their profiles to book these award winners for your own wedding!

Spotify’s Top 10 First Dance Songs

bridebook.co.uk - first dance wedding
Photo courtesy of Jana Williams Photography

After analysing thousands of playlists titled ‘First Dance’, Spotify has identified the most popular first dance songs in the U.K. And the best part? They have shared it with Bridebook and all our lovely couples planning their perfect wedding day. 

Check out their mix of swoon-worthy classics if you need a little song-spiration or just want to listen to some romantic tunes as you plan.

Happy listening!

 

 
bridebook.co.uk – spotify logo
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Professional Wedding Dance Tips from Strictly Come Dancing’s Kristina Rihanoff!

Written by Kristina Rihanoff

Kristina Rihanoff is a world professional ballroom dancer, dance instructor and dance choreographer.

We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to interview professional dancer and choreographer and Strictly Come Dancing veteran Kristina Rihanoff! With her recent launch of Bespoke Ballroom, a luxurious high end dance platform offering performances and classes, there’s no better time to read up on her pro dancing tips in time for your wedding.

Bridebook.co.uk Kristina Rihanoff portrait

Please can you tell us more about Bespoke Ballroom? What made you decide to start it?

I always loved teaching !! I had my 1st teaching job when i was only 16! It makes me really happy to see people improve on  the dance floor regardless of level they dance at. I truly believe dancing is for everyone and all ages. With BB services I want to bring the magic of Strictly come dancing to anyone who loves dancing and wants to learn !

Through the Bespoke Ballroom concept, I aim to make the sport accessible to a wide spectrum of audiences and offer an exclusive dance experience that includes VIP private tuition, seminars and private events.

The Bespoke packages can be tailor-made to meet your every need and form the perfect accompaniment to a variety of events all over the world. I even offer wedding entertainment and dance shows, as well as first wedding dance lessons that can be completed in the privacy of your own home.

Have you always wanted to work in weddings?

I love being a part of something so special. Weddings are pure joy to be involved in and I love performing at such wonderful occasions. I also love teaching the first  – every wedding dance I taught is very unique. It’s so lovely to see couples learning to dance and have this wonderful experience together.

What is your favourite thing about weddings and working/performing at weddings?

My favourite thing is to see the happiness of everyone involved. Wedding is a wonderful occasion with all generations of families coming together to celebrate love.

Which is your favourite style of dance for a wedding and why?

Most of the times I’m asked to perform the waltz or foxtrot. I think it suits the wedding so well because these dances are very graceful and timeless. Ballroom dances with lifts and lots of romantic movement are always a couple and crowd pleaser!

Bridebook.co.uk Kristina ballroom dancing

What goes into your consideration when creating a bespoke choreography for a client’s wedding?

First of all the dance must be easy enough to learn as I don’t want the couples to be stressed about the wedding dance. They have enough to worry about before the wedding !!

I always make my choreography easily adoptable to any ability of the clients. Clients send me their music ahead of my lessons so I can prepare the dance and I also ask about the space where they will be dancing  so I can think of the suitable steps.

Could you walk us through your typical process with a couple you are helping with their first dance choreography?

I prepare the choreography which goes well with the music but once I start teaching it I usually change a few steps to make it easy and comfortable. I  don’t believe in trying for hours something very hard. If the step doesn’t work for a while it’s best to change it to something else.

I had the same attitude on Strictly come dancing with my celebs. You have to be cleaver and find the right steps for your clients so they feel confident when performing.

How do the bride and groom roles vary in the wedding dance?

The man always leads and lady follows. That is the main rule of the ballroom. But if the lady more experienced in dancing she can help with leading some of the steps. Most of all the bride and groom must remember that there  is no judges or right and wrong steps! They just have to enjoy their special dance and smile!!

Bridebook.co.uk Kristina dancing with her partner

What type of couples do you usually see coming to you to train for a first dance? What would you say to a couple who think they’d love to do a dance but don’t believe they can/ doubt their ability to?

I have all sorts of couples coming to me for wedding dance or just for dance lessons. I really enjoy helping the students to learn dances and improve their skills. Dancing is for everyone , all ages and shapes! It’s a wonderful way for men and ladies to do something together!

Which is your absolute favourite dance you have performed and what was it like?

I think it was the rumba I performed with Beyoncé on my first year on Strictly. It was very overwhelming to perform with such superstar. Beyoncé was so gracious and in the end of the dance she said she really loved our performance ! I will never forget it!

Do you have any top tips for couples on their first dance?

You just have to enjoy it and don’t be afraid to make a mistake! Nobody knows your dance so just go for it! An make sure to wear whatever is most comfortable – though definitely practice in the shoes you’ll be wearing on the day.

Bridebook.co.uk Kristina smiling during her dance

The best moves for getting fit for your wedding – different moves for different parts of your body?

Just taking dancing lessons themselves can help a bride get fit. I often hear remarks from clients about how much fitter and slimmer they feel from the lessons. Any type of dancing really helps to tighten the mid drift naturally.

Latin cha cha cha, and salsa, and waltz are both high energy and burn lots of calories because of how much movement is involved. On top of that, dancing is a very fun way to get fit as it doesn’t feel like a workout like going to the gym does.

Most impressive move someone could pull off?

A lift! All dance choreography that I put together has a lift as it’s such a couple and crowd favourite. It always brings the house down, and is so sweet and special for the day. And beginners shouldn’t be scared by lifts either. With my experience on Strictly Come Dancing, I know exactly how to teach beginners.

Bridebook.co.uk Kristina doing a dance lift

Finally – what would your dream wedding look like?

I think my dream wedding would be when all of my loved once are around me. I miss my family and friends in Russia so much. As long as they are with me on that special day I will be more then happy and complete!

Have a browse at some of our other expert wedding articles:

In Tune: Choosing the Perfect Music For Your Wedding

There’s no doubt that wedding music can truly make or break a wedding. There’s nothing better than that wedding band that ticks all of the right boxes, and that gets every guest partying on the dancefloor. But how is a couple supposed to know where to start to find that perfect performer? This is where the likes of Eight Ray Music come in. Representing some of the best wedding performers in the country, who better to guide you through the ins and outs of choosing the perfect music for you wedding than Eight Ray Music‘s very own Tom Sandall. Read on below to get his expert insight into the world of wedding music!

bridebook.co.uk  trumpeter playing at a wedding

There’s a famous saying that everyone will remember a bad wedding breakfast and bad music at a wedding. Time and again, these two factors are highlighted as imperative to a weddings success. In my experience, the food’s important but the music is critical. From the emotive classical act for the ceremony to the dance floor filling party band, music will set the tone and tempo for your wedding day.

There’s a lot to consider when choosing your wedding music: the budget, the type of act, the guests, your schedule and, it’s easy to forget, your personal preferences need to be considered too.

I hope this guide acts as a useful resource to those looking to gain a better understanding of the available options when it comes to wedding music. One thing to always remember is that everyone’s needs are unique, at Eight Ray Music we tailor the entertainment to suit the individual. So take this as a rough guide and get in touch if you would like more advice!

The Ceremony

The Ceremony is an emotional and memorable moment. To truly capture the immensity of the occasion, I would always advise brides to choose a live musician.

Traditionally, people choose a classical act during the ceremony. Classical musicians add an emotive touch to proceedings and their elegance greatly complements and enhances the occasion. I favour using harpists and violinists, especially if the bride would like the Wedding March played.

You don’t have to stick to classical acts, however. Many people choose to have a more contemporary sound. It’s amazing how many people choose Ed Sheeran’s Thinking Out Loud and this means many elect for solo singers, which can be incredibly moving to witness.

Suggested Eight Ray Music Acts: Siren or Camilla Pay.

For a vocalist I would choose either Mike Newfield (singing below) or Celine of To The Sun. The beauty of hiring these two is the fact that they can also provide the evening entertainment too, helping to cut costs.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=iK9-BeDCfEs

Drinks Reception 

As people mill into the drinks reception it’s time to lift the mood without proving too intrusive. People are rightly excited, it’s wedding day!

It’s early, however, and people are still in the meet and greet phase. They want to chat and catch up with everyone, there’s no need for an overpowering band.

My two favourite options here are to use a classical act or a roaming band. The latter is more upbeat and will generate a more invigorating atmosphere, but the former is better if you’re looking to keep it a more refined affair at this point.

Suggested Eight Ray Music Acts: The Roaming Revue, Kat Eaton Duo, Siren or Camilla Pay. The Roaming Revue and Kat Eaton Duo can also provide the evening band too, saving on costs.

 

 

bridebook.co.uk camilla pay sitting with harp
Eight Ray Music’s wonderful Camilla Pay

Cost

Every bride is working on a budget. If you want to have music throughout your day but it’s stretching the wedding budget, consider choosing versatile bands.

Using the same classical act for the drinks reception as you did for the ceremony is one way to keep costs down. Some roaming bands, such as the The Roaming Revue, can also provide an evening party band. By booking the same band for both, you will save money on the budget, compared to hiring two different bands for each.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=KApZI9nrLZ0

Wedding Breakfast

Generally speaking, people don’t tend to have music whilst they’re eating. If you do, I would recommend a string quartet. String quartets work well because they’re not too intrusive, people need to breathe, relax and have a chat during dinner.

If a string quartet isn’t for you but you would like music, a roaming band can work well in-between courses as a feature. It helps to lift the dinner and generates a bit of atmosphere.

Novelty acts can also work well during dinner, singing waiters are one of my favourites. As the name suggests, they are musicians disguised as waiters who break out into song. They serve and then they suddenly start singing. And while it’s on the pricier side, it’s an incredibly cool and unique idea.

Suggested Eight Ray Music Band: Soprano Bella (singing waiters), Siren.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=1_FLuaxVneM

Evening Band

Live music is so engaging, a top band will create a memorable atmosphere. The mistake some people make here is being too specific in terms of the band they want.

I think when you’re selecting a band you need to consider a few things. You need to find a band who can mirror your character and represent you as people, yet they need to appeal to the majority too. You want as many people as possible inhabiting the dance floor, for as long as possible.

Guests at weddings tend to be a diverse bunch. Older guests are unlikely to be as enthused at hearing modern tracks, just as the younger ones among the crowd may not react well to an evening filled solely with classic hits. That’s why party bands can be a good solution. One thing top party bands have is versatility. Most of the bands on our roster are able to cater to a wide variety of audiences, playing both classic and modern tracks, which helps to please each of the various demographics.

The best part of hiring a live band or musician is that they can read the audience, finely tuning their set throughout the night to suit the mood of the evening, ensuring that the dance floor remains full until the early hours.

Suggested Eight Ray Music bands: Kat Eaton Band, FREEMAN, Coyote, To The Sun or The Revue Band.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=oFmBJhU-x-Q

DJ

When it comes to employing a DJ or soliciting the use of an iPod playlist I think it’s a no-brainer and would reiterate the above point:

Live musicians can read the audience, a DJ will chop and change their playlist to suit the audience; if they are dancing to Motown then the next song is not going to be Skepta. You don’t want to spend your evening skipping tracks, a great DJ takes the pressure off.

In regard to cost, a lot of party bands will offer a package deal with a DJ. It’s always worth asking for this when you enquire, it might mean you have enough budget left for something else – which is always a pleasant surprise!

Suggested Eight Ray Music DJs: AJ Odudu, Baller Sounds, Patrick Hagenaar.

bridebook.co.uk wedding dj smiling
Aj Odudu in action

Bio: Tom Sandall is Eight Ray Music’s Business Development Manager. He specialises in providing exceptional entertainment for weddings and events. Feel free to get in touch with Tom if you would like to explore music for your wedding.

Happy Planning! Inspired by Eight Ray Music’s suggestions? Check out their Bridebook profile.

 

 

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