Wedding Recessional Songs: Choosing the Perfect Tune for Your Big Exit
As your wedding ceremony comes to a close, it’s time for one of the most joyful moments of the day—your grand exit! The recessional, where you and your spouse walk down the aisle as a married couple for the first time, is a moment brimming with celebration and joy. Selecting the right wedding recessional song adds the perfect soundtrack to this special occasion, ensuring you leave the ceremony with a memorable, upbeat, and exciting vibe.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the best wedding recessional songs, including popular tracks, tips for selection, and how to plan the perfect exit. Whether you’re looking for traditional, fun, or upbeat wedding ceremony exit songs, you’ll find plenty of ideas to make your ceremony exit unforgettable.
How to choose a recessional song?
When selecting a recessional song, think about the atmosphere you want to create as you leave the ceremony. Here are a few tips to guide you:
- Consider the Mood: Do you want something upbeat and fun, or more romantic and sentimental? Upbeat wedding recessional songs are perfect for adding energy and excitement to the exit, while slower, more romantic songs might evoke a more emotional response.
- Reflect Your Personality: Your song choice should reflect your personality as a couple. If you’re light-hearted and fun, a playful song like “I’m a Believer” by The Monkees might be perfect. If you’re more sentimental, you might prefer something like “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne.
- Match the Theme: If you have a themed wedding, such as a vintage or rustic wedding, you may want to choose a song that fits within that theme. For example, “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles works beautifully for a laid-back, outdoor wedding.
- Test the Timing: Make sure your chosen song is long enough to cover the recessional. Most recessional songs should last about two to three minutes, allowing plenty of time for the couple, wedding party, and guests to exit the ceremony.
What is the best exit song for a wedding?
There’s no definitive answer to this question since the best exit song for your wedding ultimately depends on your personal taste and the mood you want to set as you leave the ceremony. However, the best wedding recessional songs tend to be upbeat and joyous, capturing the excitement of the moment.
For some couples, the best exit song is a timeless classic like “All You Need is Love” by The Beatles, while others prefer a more contemporary feel with songs like “Happy” by Pharrell Williams or “Marry You” by Bruno Mars. These tunes are perfect if you want something cheerful, light-hearted, and celebratory to reflect the moment.
If you’re looking for a more romantic tone, “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole is another wonderful option, radiating warmth and love.
Traditional Wedding Recessional Songs:
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- “Wedding March” – Felix Mendelssohn
- “Ode to Joy” – Ludwig van Beethoven
- “Trumpet Voluntary” – Jeremiah Clarke
- “Canon in D” – Johann Pachelbel
- “Hornpipe” from Water Music – George Frideric Handel
- “Rondeau” – Jean-Joseph Mouret
- “La Réjouissance” from Royal Fireworks – George Frideric Handel
- “Bridal Chorus” – Richard Wagner
- “Allegro Maestoso” from Water Music – George Frideric Handel
- “Toccata” from Symphony No. 5 – Charles-Marie Widor
- “Ave Maria” – Franz Schubert
- “Spring” from The Four Seasons – Antonio Vivaldi
- “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee” – Ludwig van Beethoven
- “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” – Johann Sebastian Bach
- “Air on the G String” – Johann Sebastian Bach
- “Te Deum” – Marc-Antoine Charpentier
- “A Midsummer Night’s Dream Overture” – Felix Mendelssohn
- “Concerto for Two Trumpets” – Antonio Vivaldi
- “Arrival of the Queen of Sheba” – George Frideric Handel
- “Hallelujah Chorus” – George Frideric Handel
- “Sinfonia” from Solomon – George Frideric Handel
- “Alla Hornpipe” from Water Music – George Frideric Handel
- “Largo” from Xerxes – George Frideric Handel
- “Chaconne” from The Fairy Queen – Henry Purcell
- “Trumpet Tune” – Henry Purcell
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Contemporary Wedding Recessional Songs:
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- “All You Need Is Love” – The Beatles
- “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” – Stevie Wonder
- “I’m Yours” – Jason Mraz
- “You Are the Best Thing” – Ray LaMontagne
- “Marry You” – Bruno Mars
- “Best Day of My Life” – American Authors
- “Happy” – Pharrell Williams
- “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” – Natalie Cole
- “Better Together” – Jack Johnson
- “Everything” – Michael Bublé
- “Perfect” – Ed Sheeran
- “Ho Hey” – The Lumineers
- “Dog Days Are Over” – Florence + The Machine
- “You Make My Dreams” – Hall & Oates
- “Home” – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
- “A Sky Full of Stars” – Coldplay
- “Higher Love” – Kygo & Whitney Houston
- “On Top of the World” – Imagine Dragons
- “Shut Up and Dance” – Walk the Moon
- “Good Life” – OneRepublic
- “Love on Top” – Beyoncé
- “Just the Way You Are” – Bruno Mars
- “Safe and Sound” – Capital Cities
- “I Choose You” – Sara Bareilles
- “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” – The Proclaimers
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Modern Wedding Recessional Songs:
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- “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” – Justin Timberlake
- “Love Me Like You Do” – Ellie Goulding
- “Perfect Duet” – Ed Sheeran & Beyoncé
- “A Thousand Years” – Christina Perri
- “Speechless” – Dan + Shay
- “10,000 Hours” – Dan + Shay, Justin Bieber
- “Sugar” – Maroon 5
- “Better Place” – Rachel Platten
- “Lover” – Taylor Swift
- “This Is What You Came For” – Calvin Harris ft. Rihanna
- “Hold My Hand” – Jess Glynne
- “I Like Me Better” – Lauv
- “Sunday Best” – Surfaces
- “Tenerife Sea” – Ed Sheeran
- “Levitating” – Dua Lipa
- “Feel So Close” – Calvin Harris
- “Adore You” – Harry Styles
- “Good as Hell” – Lizzo
- “Electric Love” – BØRNS
- “Love Someone” – Lukas Graham
- “Stuck with U” – Ariana Grande & Justin Bieber
- “Like I’m Gonna Lose You” – Meghan Trainor ft. John Legend
- “You Are the Reason” – Calum Scott ft. Leona Lewis
- “Forever After All” – Luke Combs
- “Happier” – Marshmello ft. Bastille
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Fun Wedding Recessional Songs:
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- “Shut Up and Dance” – Walk the Moon
- “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
- “Dancing in the Moonlight” – Toploader
- “I Gotta Feeling” – The Black Eyed Peas
- “Good as Hell” – Lizzo
- “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” – Justin Timberlake
- “You Make My Dreams” – Hall & Oates
- “Happy” – Pharrell Williams
- “Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina & The Waves
- “We Found Love” – Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris
- “Love on Top” – Beyoncé
- “On Top of the World” – Imagine Dragons
- “Best Day of My Life” – American Authors
- “Raise Your Glass” – P!nk
- “I’m a Believer” – The Monkees
- “All Star” – Smash Mouth
- “Good Life” – OneRepublic
- “The Time of My Life” – Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes
- “Celebration” – Kool & The Gang
- “Wake Me Up” – Avicii
- “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” – Whitney Houston
- “Let’s Go Crazy” – Prince
- “You Shook Me All Night Long” – AC/DC
- “We Are Family” – Sister Sledge
- “Viva La Vida” – Coldplay
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What is a famous wedding recessional song?
One of the most famous wedding recessional songs is “Wedding March” by Felix Mendelssohn, which has been used in ceremonies for centuries. This classical piece is instantly recognizable and is often played as couples exit the church in more traditional ceremonies. Its grand, joyful tones make it a timeless choice for those who appreciate the beauty of classical music.
If you’re looking for something a bit more modern but still widely known, “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” by Stevie Wonder is another iconic recessional song. Its upbeat rhythm and joyful lyrics perfectly capture the celebratory spirit of the occasion.
What is the traditional song to walk out of the wedding ceremony?
The traditional song that many couples choose for their recessional is “Wedding March” by Felix Mendelssohn, composed in 1842. It has become synonymous with weddings worldwide and is often paired with “Bridal Chorus” by Richard Wagner (commonly known as “Here Comes the Bride”) for the processional.
If you’re having a classic or traditional ceremony, you might choose these songs to add a touch of elegance and history to your big day.
When should the recessional song start?
The recessional song should begin immediately after you and your partner are pronounced married. This moment marks the end of the formal ceremony and the beginning of your celebration, so it’s important to time the music perfectly. The recessional song sets the tone for your exit and signals to the guests that it’s time to celebrate!
How many wedding recessional songs do you need?
Typically, you only need one wedding recessional song for your exit as a couple. This song is usually played as you walk down the aisle together after being pronounced married.
However, if you want to extend the festive atmosphere, you can have a second recessional song for your wedding party and guests as they exit. This allows you to keep the joyful mood going while everyone makes their way out of the ceremony space.
What is the order of the recessional at a wedding?
The recessional follows a specific order, which mirrors the processional but in reverse. Here’s the typical order of a wedding recessional:
- The Newlyweds: The couple is the first to walk down the aisle together, marking their first official moment as a married pair.
- The Flower Girl and Ring Bearer: These little ones follow closely behind the couple.
- The Wedding Party: The bridesmaids and groomsmen walk out in pairs or individually, depending on the arrangement.
- The Parents of the Couple: Both sets of parents typically follow the wedding party.
- The Officiant: The officiant may exit last, depending on the ceremony’s formality.
Do you need a wedding exit song?
While not strictly necessary, a wedding exit song is a fantastic way to add energy and excitement to your ceremony. The music helps signal the transition from the formal part of the day to the celebration, making it an important detail to consider. Choosing a fun and upbeat wedding exit song adds a memorable touch and gets everyone ready for the festivities to come.
Without a wedding recessional song, the ceremony can feel like it ends abruptly, so having a song planned is a great way to end on a high note—literally!
Who walks out in a wedding recessional?
In a wedding recessional, the couple is the first to walk out after the ceremony. They are followed by the bridal party, including bridesmaids, groomsmen, the maid of honor, and the best man. Then, the flower girl and ring bearer typically walk out next, followed by the parents of the couple. Depending on the structure of the wedding, the officiant and guests may follow afterward.
Upbeat Wedding Ceremony Exit Songs to Consider
For couples looking for fun, celebratory, and upbeat wedding exit songs, there are plenty of choices that will leave everyone smiling. Here are some popular upbeat wedding recessional songs:
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- “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors
- “You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates
- “Can’t Stop the Feeling” by Justin Timberlake
- “Love on Top” by Beyoncé
- “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas
Each of these songs brings a high-energy, positive vibe that’s perfect for kicking off your reception celebrations.
Fun Songs for Wedding Exit
For a playful twist on tradition, many couples opt for fun songs that reflect their personalities. Here are a few fun songs for your wedding exit:
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- “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves
- “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole
- “I’m a Believer” by The Monkees
- “Oh Happy Day” by The Edwin Hawkins Singers
- “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
These fun wedding recessional songs are sure to have your guests smiling and clapping as you make your way down the aisle. Add them to your Spotify list.
Capturing Your Wedding Exit
Your wedding recessional is one of the most joyful and picture-perfect moments of the day. As you plan your ceremony exit, it’s important to think about how your photographer can capture this special moment. Whether you choose an upbeat song or something more romantic, your exit will be filled with emotions worth capturing on camera.
