Just as the processional is the emotional beginning to your wedding, the recessional is the joyous finale. It's the moment when you and your partner, now officially married, walk back down the aisle together for the first time. This victorious walk symbolizes the start of your new life as a committed couple. It's a time filled with joy, relief, and excitement, and the music you choose should reflect all these feelings.
The wedding recessional is the triumphant finale to your ceremony, the moment when you and your partner, now officially married, make your way back down the aisle together. It's a vivid expression of the joy, relief, and excitement you feel as you embark on this new chapter of your life.
The music you choose for your recessional helps to transition from the solemnity of your vows to the unbridled joy of your marriage. It's the musical bridge that takes you and your guests from the heartfelt emotions of your ceremony to the festive atmosphere of your reception.
"Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)" - Stevie Wonder: A classic feel-good song that's all about commitment.
"Dog Days Are Over" - Florence and The Machine: An anthem of liberation and joy, ideal for a triumphant exit.
"You Are the Best Thing" - Ray LaMontagne: A soulful declaration of love and happiness.
"On Top of the World" - Imagine Dragons: For a feeling of euphoria as you walk back up the aisle.
"Home"—Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros: This folksy, upbeat track celebrates coming home to love.
"Marry You" by Bruno Mars is a poppy, light-hearted tune about spontaneous declarations of love.
"Best Day of My Life"—American Authors: Capture the joy of declaring this day the best one yet.
"Love on Top" - Beyoncé: A high-energy track that puts love at the forefront.
"First Day of My Life"—Bright Eyes: This sweet, mellow song is ideal for a more subdued but deeply joyful moment.
"Everything" - Michael Bublé: A smooth, jazzy tune that speaks to finding your everything in your partner.
"Happy" - Pharrell Williams: An infectious beat and joyful lyrics make this a go-to for a celebration vibe.
"Accidentally in Love" by Counting Crows is a fun, upbeat song about falling in love, ideal for a playful couple.
"I Choose You" - Sara Bareilles: A heartfelt, joyous choice that speaks directly to the choice of being together.
"Sugar" - Maroon 5: A sweet, catchy tune that's all about the sweetness of love.
"Ho Hey" - The Lumineers: An indie-folk choice that's both upbeat and heartwarming.
"Can't Stop the Feeling!"—Justin Timberlake: This pop anthem is all about feeling good and dancing away.
"I Do" by Colbie Caillat is a sunny, uplifting song ideal for a beach or summer wedding.
"Adventure of a Lifetime" - Coldplay: A vibrant track that celebrates the adventure of love and life together.
"Lucky"—Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat: This duet captures the bliss of feeling lucky in love.
"Shut Up and Dance" - WALK THE MOON: An energetic pop-rock track that's guaranteed to get everyone ready to dance.
For couples who prefer the timeless elegance and celebratory spirit of traditional wedding recessional music, here are some classic choices that will add a touch of grandeur and joy as you make your way back down the aisle:
"Wedding March" from A Midsummer Night's Dream by Felix Mendelssohn is perhaps the most iconic recessional piece. Its jubilant tones wholeheartedly capture the celebratory mood of the moment.
"Ode to Joy" from Symphony No. 9 by Ludwig van Beethoven: An uplifting, universally recognized symphony that embodies happiness and triumph.
"Hornpipe" from Water Music by George Frideric Handel: A lively, upbeat selection that’s been a favorite for wedding recessionals for its majestic and joyful melody.
"Spring" from The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi: This bright and energetic piece reflects the optimism and new beginnings of marriage.
"Trumpet Voluntary" by Jeremiah Clarke: Also known as "The Prince of Denmark’s March," this regal piece adds a royal touch to your recessional.
"Rondeau" by Jean-Joseph Mouret: Often recognized for its use in Masterpiece Theatre, its fanfare is ideal for a grand exit.
"Arrival of the Queen of Sheba" by George Frideric Handel: A lively and engaging piece that suggests movement and excitement, ideal for a joyful recessional.
"Trumpet Tune" by Henry Purcell: A bright and celebratory piece that’s ideal for heralding the newlyweds.
"La Rejouissance" from Music for the Royal Fireworks by George Frideric Handel: This piece offers a sense of celebration and grandeur, suitable for a royal affair.
"Brandenburg Concerto No. 3" by Johann Sebastian Bach is a classical piece that brings a sense of elegance and sophistication to any wedding recessional.
Instrumental covers can add a touch of tradition while still feeling fresh and personal.
These timeless melodies are filled with joy, celebration, and a sense of grandeur that's ideal for the end of your ceremony and the beginning of your marriage. Each piece has its own unique feel and mood, and they all beautifully express the significance and happiness of your special day.
While the processional music is often more classical and instrumental in creating a formal, reverent atmosphere, your recessional is a chance to let your personalities shine. Celebrate your union with music that feels true to you, whether that's a rock anthem, an indie ballad, or a pop hit. The most important thing is to choose a song that celebrates your love and sets the stage for the party to come. Your recessional is your first step into your new life together, and the music you choose is the soundtrack to your own unique love story.