Wedding Playlists

7 Surprising Processional Songs You NEED!

PartyMusicPlaylist TeamFebruary 2, 202611 min read
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7 Surprising Processional Songs You NEED! - Event Playlist Guide

7 Surprising Processional Songs You NEED!

7 Surprising Processional Songs You NEED!

Your wedding day is a symphony of moments, and the processional is the overture. It sets the tone, builds anticipation, and announces the arrival of the wedding party and, of course, you! Are you tired of the same old predictable wedding processional songs? Do you crave something unique that truly reflects your personality as a couple? Then you're in the right place!

In this guide, we'll explore seven surprising (yet totally awesome) processional song choices that will make your walk down the aisle unforgettable. We'll also dive into how to choose the perfect music, offer practical tips, and steer you clear of common pitfalls. Get ready to ditch the clichés and embrace a processional song that’s as special as your love story.

Ready to find the perfect song to start your happily ever after? Let's get started!

Why Choose a "Surprising" Processional Song?

Let's face it: Some wedding traditions can feel a bit…well, traditional. While there's nothing wrong with classic choices, opting for a "surprising" processional song is a fantastic way to inject your personality into your wedding. Think about it: Your wedding is your celebration of your unique love. Why not reflect that in your music?

A surprising song choice can be a conversation starter, a reflection of your shared hobbies, or simply a song that holds deep meaning for you both. It can also set the tone for a fun, relaxed, and joyful celebration. Think of the reaction from your guests when they hear a song they wouldn't expect, yet perfectly fits the moment. It's all about creating a memorable and personal experience.

But what exactly qualifies as a "surprising" processional song? It could be an instrumental version of a pop song, a folk tune, a movie theme, or even a bit of upbeat indie music. The key is to choose something that feels authentic to you and your partner. Don't be afraid to break the mold!

Unconventional Wedding Processional Songs That Will Wow Your Guests

Ready for some inspiration? Here are some unconventional wedding processional songs that will wow your guests and make your entrance truly memorable:

  • "Concerning Hobbits" by Howard Shore — For the Lord of the Rings fans, this instrumental piece is whimsical, heartwarming, and creates a sense of adventure.
  • "A Sky Full of Stars" (Instrumental) by Coldplay — Take a modern pop anthem and transform it into a beautiful and uplifting instrumental piece. It's energetic and romantic, perfect for a joyful processional.
  • "Glasgow Love Theme" by Craig Armstrong — From the movie Love Actually, this piece is emotionally resonant and deeply romantic, without being overly sentimental.
  • "Hoppípolla" by Sigur Rós — This Icelandic band creates ethereal soundscapes that are both magical and uplifting. Perfect for a dreamy and unique processional.
  • "Canon in D" (Acoustic Guitar Version) by Johann Pachelbel — While the original is a classic, an acoustic guitar version brings a fresh and intimate feel to this timeless melody.
  • "The Sound of Silence" (Instrumental) by The Vitamin String Quartet — A haunting and beautiful rendition of a classic song.
  • "Married Life" by Michael Giacchino — The theme from the movie UP. A beautiful, tear-jerking, yet ultimately optimistic song about love and life.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. The possibilities are endless! Think about your favorite movies, TV shows, and artists and see if you can find a song that resonates with you as a couple.

How to Choose the Perfect Processional Song: A Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing the perfect processional song can feel daunting, but it doesn't have to be! Here's a step-by-step guide to help you find the ideal music selection for your big day:

  1. Brainstorm Together: Sit down with your partner and brainstorm songs that are meaningful to both of you. Think about songs that remind you of your first date, your first dance, or any other special moments in your relationship. Don't be afraid to think outside the box.
  2. Consider Your Wedding Style: Is your wedding formal or casual? Rustic or modern? Your processional song should complement the overall tone and style of your wedding. A formal wedding might call for a more classical or instrumental piece, while a casual wedding might be better suited for a pop song or folk tune.
  3. Think About the Length: The length of your processional song is important. You'll need enough music to cover the entrance of the wedding party, the parents, and yourself. Choose a song that's long enough, or consider having it looped or faded out.
  4. Listen to Different Versions: Once you've found a song you like, explore different versions. An instrumental version, an acoustic version, or a string quartet arrangement can all add a unique touch to your processional.
  5. Test It Out: Practice walking down the aisle to your chosen song. This will help you get a feel for the timing and ensure that the music fits the moment. You can even record yourself walking to the music to get a better perspective.
  6. Get Feedback: Once you've narrowed down your choices, get feedback from your wedding planner, DJ, or other trusted friends and family members. They can offer valuable insights and help you make a final decision.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose a song that you both love and that reflects your unique love story. Don't be afraid to trust your instincts and go with your gut!

Practical Tips for Incorporating Your Chosen Song

Once you've chosen your perfect processional song, it's time to think about how to incorporate it into your wedding ceremony. Here are some practical tips to ensure a smooth and memorable entrance:

  • Communicate with Your Musicians/DJ: Clearly communicate your song choice to your musicians or DJ well in advance of the wedding day. Provide them with a high-quality recording of the song and any specific instructions, such as when to start and stop the music. If they are performing the song live, ensure they have ample time to rehearse.
  • Coordinate with Your Wedding Planner: Work with your wedding planner to coordinate the timing of the processional. They can help cue the music and ensure that everyone knows when to walk down the aisle.
  • Consider Transitions: Think about how your processional song will transition into the next part of the ceremony. Will you fade it out, or will it segue into another song? Work with your musicians or DJ to create a seamless transition.
  • Practice Your Entrance: As mentioned earlier, practice walking down the aisle to your chosen song. This will help you feel more comfortable and confident on your wedding day. It also allows you to adjust the song's timing if needed.
  • Embrace the Moment: Most importantly, relax and enjoy the moment! Your processional is a special and significant part of your wedding ceremony. Take a deep breath, smile, and soak it all in.

By following these practical tips, you can ensure that your processional is a seamless and memorable part of your wedding day. Now, let's explore some more processional song ideas based on different moods and moments.

Processional Songs for a Romantic and Intimate Ceremony

If you're dreaming of a romantic and intimate wedding ceremony, here are some processional song suggestions that will set the perfect mood:

  • "Can't Help Falling in Love" (Instrumental) by Elvis Presley — A timeless classic that speaks to the heart. An instrumental version adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.
  • "A Thousand Years" (Piano Version) by Christina Perri — This song is already a popular wedding choice, but a piano version offers a softer and more intimate feel.
  • "Kissing You" by Des'ree — From the movie Romeo + Juliet, this song is ethereal, romantic, and utterly captivating.
  • "Clair de Lune" by Claude Debussy — A beautiful and timeless classical piece that evokes a sense of romance and serenity.
  • "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" (Instrumental) by Roberta Flack — A soulful and deeply romantic tune.
  • "Perfect" (Acoustic) by Ed Sheeran — A popular modern love song that sounds beautiful in acoustic.
  • "What A Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong — A classic song that reminds us to appreciate the beauty in the world and in our lives together.

These songs are all about creating a warm, intimate, and romantic atmosphere for your wedding ceremony. Choose one that speaks to your heart and reflects your love story.

Upbeat and Joyful Processional Songs for a Celebratory Vibe

Want to kick off your wedding with a burst of energy and joy? These upbeat processional songs will set a celebratory vibe and get everyone excited for the festivities to come:

  • "Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)" by Stevie Wonder — A feel-good classic that's guaranteed to put a smile on everyone's face.
  • "Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles — A cheerful and optimistic song that celebrates new beginnings.
  • "You Are the Best Thing" by Ray LaMontagne — A soulful and upbeat song that expresses pure joy and gratitude.
  • "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina & The Waves — An 80s classic that will get everyone dancing in their seats.
  • "Happy" by Pharrell Williams — An infectious and upbeat song that's all about celebrating happiness.
  • "Marry You" by Bruno Mars — A fun and upbeat song about deciding to get married in the moment.
  • "Everything" by Michael Bublé — A jazzy and romantic song about finding everything you need in the one you love.

These songs are perfect for couples who want to create a fun, energetic, and joyful atmosphere for their wedding ceremony. Get ready to celebrate!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Your Processional Song

Choosing the perfect processional song can be tricky, and it's easy to make mistakes along the way. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

  • Choosing a Song with Inappropriate Lyrics: Pay close attention to the lyrics of your chosen song. Make sure they're appropriate for a wedding ceremony and don't contain any negative or controversial messages.
  • Ignoring the Length of the Song: As mentioned earlier, the length of your processional song is important. Don't choose a song that's too short or too long for your needs.
  • Waiting Until the Last Minute: Don't wait until the last minute to choose your processional song. Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, listen to different options, and make a decision.
  • Not Considering Your Venue: Your venue can influence your song choice. A grand cathedral might call for a more classical piece, while a rustic barn might be better suited for a folk tune.
  • Forgetting to Communicate with Your Musicians/DJ: Clear communication is key to a successful processional. Make sure your musicians or DJ have all the information they need well in advance of the wedding day.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your processional song is a perfect fit for your wedding ceremony.

Expert Tips for Creating a Memorable Processional

Want to take your processional to the next level? Here are some expert tips for creating a truly memorable experience:

  • Personalize Your Music: Consider commissioning a custom arrangement of your favorite song, or having a friend or family member perform live.
  • Incorporate Visual Elements: Add visual elements to your processional, such as flower petals, bubbles, or a beautiful backdrop.
  • Create a Dramatic Entrance: Use lighting, fog, or other special effects to create a dramatic entrance.
  • Involve Your Wedding Party: Have your wedding party perform a choreographed dance or carry meaningful objects down the aisle.
  • Make It a Surprise: Keep your processional song a secret from your guests until the big day. This will add an element of surprise and excitement.

These expert tips will help you create a processional that's not only beautiful but also deeply personal and unforgettable. And remember, PartyMusicPlaylist can help you organize all your wedding music in one place, making planning a breeze!

Find Local Wedding DJs Who Understand Your Vision

Selecting the right processional songs is just one piece of the puzzle. Finding a local wedding DJ who truly understands your vision and can execute it flawlessly is crucial. A skilled DJ can help you:

  • Fine-tune your playlist: They can offer suggestions based on your preferences and ensure a cohesive flow throughout the ceremony and reception.
  • Manage the sound: Professional DJs have the equipment and expertise to ensure clear and balanced sound, regardless of your venue.
  • Handle transitions seamlessly: They can create smooth transitions between songs, keeping the energy flowing and avoiding awkward silences.
  • Read the crowd: A good DJ can adapt to the mood of your guests and adjust the music accordingly, ensuring everyone has a great time.

Don't underestimate the value of a professional DJ. They can transform your wedding from a simple event into an unforgettable celebration. Consider using a directory or referral service to find experienced and reputable DJs in your area. Be sure to read reviews and speak with potential DJs to ensure they are a good fit for your style and budget.

And remember, PartyMusicPlaylist.com can help you easily export your curated playlist to share with your DJ, ensuring they have all the songs you've selected for your special day.

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