Walking down the aisle is a moment that every bride and groom dream about, and the perfect song can make this moment truly magical. The right walking the aisle song, also known as the processional, sets the tone for the entire ceremony and can evoke a range of emotions, from joy and excitement to tenderness and love. In this article, we'll explore the art of choosing the perfect walking the aisle song, delve into some popular options, and provide tips to help you make the right choice.
Understanding the Role of Walking the Aisle Songs
Walking the aisle songs serve a dual purpose. First, they create a beautiful soundtrack for the bridal party's entrance. Second, and perhaps more importantly, they accompany the bride's grand entrance, setting the stage for her big reveal. The song you choose should reflect your personal style and the atmosphere you want to create. It should also complement the rest of your wedding music and fit seamlessly into the flow of your ceremony.
Popular Walking the Aisle Songs
Choosing a walking the aisle song can be a challenging task, given the vast array of options available. To help you get started, we've compiled a list of popular choices that span various genres and styles.
Classical
- Bach - "Prelude in C Major" (from The Well-Tempered Clavier)
- Mendelssohn - "Wedding March" (from A Midsummer Night's Dream)
- Clair de Lune - "Debussy" (from Suite Bergamasque)
Traditional
- Here Comes the Bride (Here Comes the Sun of a Morning)
- Trumpet Voluntary - "Jeremiah Clarke"
- Canon in D - "Pachelbel"
Modern and Popular
- A Thousand Years - "Christina Perri"
- I'm Yours - "Jason Mraz"
- All of Me - "John Legend"
- Thinking Out Loud - "Ed Sheeran"
- La Vie en Rose - "Louis Armstrong"
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Walking the Aisle Song
With so many options to choose from, selecting the perfect walking the aisle song can feel overwhelming. To help you make the right choice, we've compiled a list of tips to guide you through the process.
Consider the Lyrics
If you opt for a song with lyrics, make sure the words resonate with you and your partner. The lyrics should reflect your love story and the emotions you want to convey on your special day.
Think About the Tempo
The tempo of your walking the aisle song should complement the pace of your procession. A slower tempo works well for a more intimate and emotional entrance, while a faster tempo can create a sense of excitement and anticipation.
Match the Style to Your Ceremony
Your walking the aisle song should complement the overall style and theme of your wedding ceremony. For example, a classical ceremony might call for a traditional or instrumental piece, while a more modern or rustic ceremony could lend itself to a popular song with lyrics.
Practice Makes Perfect
Before the big day, make sure to walk down the aisle to your chosen song during a rehearsal. This will give you a sense of how the song feels and whether it's the right choice. It's also an opportunity to make any necessary adjustments to the tempo or volume.
FAQs
What is the difference between a processional and a recessional?
The processional is the entrance of the wedding party, including the bride, while the recessional is the exit of the newlyweds and the wedding party after the ceremony. The walking the aisle song is typically played during the processional, while the recessional song is played as the couple and their wedding party exit the ceremony space.
Can I use a non-traditional song for my walking the aisle song?
Absolutely! While traditional songs are always a safe choice, using a non-traditional song can make your ceremony unique and personal. Just make sure the song fits the tone and atmosphere you want to create and that it resonates with you and your partner.
How long should my walking the aisle song be?
The length of your walking the aisle song will depend on the size of your wedding party and the pace of your procession. On average, a walking the aisle song should be between 3 to 5 minutes in length. However, it's essential to consider the specific needs of your ceremony and adjust the song's length accordingly.
Choosing the perfect walking the aisle song is an exciting task that allows you to personalize your ceremony and set the stage for your big entrance. By considering the role of walking the aisle songs, exploring popular options, and following our tips, you'll be well on your way to selecting the perfect soundtrack for your special day.
