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The Best Wedding Recessional Songs to Complete Your Ceremony

  • Publication date: 04/11/2023
  • Updated: 11/15/2024
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Hey there, lovely readers! It's time to talk about that magical moment when you and your newly minted spouse turn to face your adoring guests and strut back down the aisle, hand in hand. That's right, we're dishing out the best wedding recessional songs to complete your ceremony and make that moment extra special. After all, it's the soundtrack to your happily-ever-after first steps!

So, let's dive into some toe-tapping, heartwarming tunes that will have your guests cheering, dancing, and maybe even shedding a tear as you make your grand exit. Are you ready? Because we've got some sensational song suggestions coming your way!

First Thing First: What Is The Recessional?

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Photo by Carly Jean

You might be wondering: what exactly is the wedding recessional, and why do we need a special song for it? Well, allow us to enlighten you! The recessional is part of your wedding ceremony when you, your spouse, and the rest of the bridal party make a grand exit from the ceremony location. It's the joyous moment when you've exchanged your vows, sealed your commitment with a kiss, and are now officially a married couple.

Having a special song for the recessional is essential because it sets the tone for your celebration and creates a memorable atmosphere. Think of it as the cherry on top of your wedding ceremony. It's a way to convey the emotions you're feeling as you embark on this new journey together, be it pure happiness, love, or a mix of both.

A piece of well-chosen recessional music for wedding acts as a bridge between the solemnity of the ceremony and the fun of the reception. It's an opportunity to let your personalities shine and to share your taste in music with your guests. Plus, a catchy tune will have everyone tapping their feet and basking in the excitement of your big day.

So, don't underestimate the power of the perfect recessional song! It's the final note of your ceremony, and a fantastic opportunity to create a lasting impression as you and your partner step into married life together.

Traditional Recessional Wedding Songs

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Photo by Love Rita

If you're looking for some timeless tunes to complete your wedding ceremony, you can't go wrong with traditional recessional songs. These classics have stood the test of time and continue to captivate hearts at countless weddings. The familiarity and elegance of these pieces create a sense of tradition and unity, making them a popular choice for many couples. So, without further ado, here are 24 traditional wedding recessional songs that you need to consider for your big day:

  1. "Wedding March" by Felix Mendelssohn – A true classic that has been gracing wedding ceremonies for generations.
  2. "Trumpet Voluntary" by Jeremiah Clarke – This regal tune is perfect for a grand exit.
  3. "Canon in D" by Johann Pachelbel – A beautiful and soothing melody that evokes a sense of romance.
  4. "Ode to Joy" by Ludwig van Beethoven – A triumphant and uplifting piece that celebrates the joy of love.
  5. "Spring" from The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi – This vibrant composition captures the energy and excitement of new beginnings.
  6. "Hallelujah Chorus" from Handel's Messiah – A rousing and celebratory piece that adds a touch of grandeur to your exit.
  7. "Water Music" by George Frideric Handel – This suite of Baroque compositions creates an elegant and refined atmosphere.
  8. "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" by Johann Sebastian Bach – A serene and uplifting choice for a traditional wedding.
  9. "Hornpipe" from Handel's Water Music – This lively tune will have your guests tapping their feet as you make your exit.
  10. "Rondeau" by Jean-Joseph Mouret – A graceful and melodic piece perfect for a sophisticated exit.
  11. "La Réjouissance" from Handel's Royal Fireworks Music – This jubilant composition embodies the joy and excitement of your big day.
  12. "Air" from Handel's Water Music – A gentle and elegant piece that provides a soothing backdrop for your exit.
  13. "Ave Maria" by Franz Schubert – A heartfelt and emotional song that conveys the depth of your love.
  14. "Clair de Lune" by Claude Debussy – A tender and romantic piece that adds a touch of enchantment to your ceremony.
  15. "Allegro Maestoso" from Handel's Water Music – This stately composition sets the stage for a grand exit.
  16. "Arrival of the Queen of Sheba" by George Frideric Handel – A lively and spirited piece that celebrates the joy of marriage.
  17. "Bridal Chorus" by Richard Wagner – Another classic wedding staple, often referred to as "Here Comes the Bride."
  18. "Trumpet Tune" by Henry Purcell – This upbeat tune adds a touch of regality to your exit.
  19. "Brandenburg Concerto No. 3" by Johann Sebastian Bach – A sophisticated and intricate piece perfect for a traditional wedding.
  20. "Gymnopédie No. 1" by Erik Satie – A serene composition that creates a peaceful ambiance.
  21. "Minuet" by Luigi Boccherini – This charming and playful tune adds a touch of whimsy to your recessional.
  22. "Panis Angelicus" by César Franck – A heartfelt and angelic hymn that evokes a sense of reverence.
  23. "The Prince of Denmark's March" by Jeremiah Clarke – Another regal and triumphant composition for a grand exit.
  24. "Prelude in C Major" by Johann Sebastian Bach – A peaceful and elegant piece that sets the tone for a traditional recessional.

Fun Recessional Songs

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Photo by Caleb Salazar

Looking to add a splash of fun and lightheartedness to your wedding day? These cheerful and upbeat recessional songs are just what you need! These tunes are perfect for couples who want to express their unique personalities and share their joy with their guests. So, get ready to dance, smile, and celebrate with these 20 fun recessional songs for a cheerful wedding:

  1. "Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)" by Stevie Wonder – This soulful classic will have everyone grooving as you make your exit.
  2. "Happy" by Pharrell Williams – It's impossible not to smile when this infectious tune starts playing.
  3. "I Got You (I Feel Good)" by James Brown – A funky and energetic choice that perfectly encapsulates your newlywed bliss.
  4. "You Make My Dreams" by Hall & Oates – This upbeat and catchy song will have your guests singing along.
  5. "Marry You" by Bruno Mars – A fun and romantic tune that's all about saying "I do."
  6. "Best Day of My Life" by American Authors – An uplifting and joyful song that captures the magic of your special day.
  7. "All You Need is Love" by The Beatles – This timeless classic is perfect for couples who want to spread love and happiness.
  8. "I Do" by Colbie Caillat – A sweet and catchy song that celebrates the joy of commitment.
  9. "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole – A feel-good anthem that's perfect for a joyous recessional.
  10. "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina & The Waves – This energetic tune will have everyone dancing as you make your exit.
  11. "Love on Top" by Beyoncé – A modern hit that showcases the power of love.
  12. "On Top of the World" by Imagine Dragons – An uplifting and spirited song that captures the excitement of your big day.
  13. "I'm a Believer" by The Monkees – This fun and catchy tune is perfect for couples who are head over heels in love.
  14. "You're My Best Friend" by Queen – A heartfelt and fun song that celebrates the bond between partners.
  15. "Home" by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros – A charming and whimsical song that's perfect for a playful recessional.
  16. "Sugar" by Maroon 5 – This sweet and catchy tune will have your guests dancing and singing along.
  17. "Forever" by Chris Brown – An energetic and romantic choice for a fun-filled recessional.
  18. "Ho Hey" by The Lumineers – A sweet and simple tune that captures the joy of love.
  19. "Dancing in the Moonlight" by Toploader – This feel-good song is perfect for a nighttime or outdoor wedding.
  20. "Higher Love" by Kygo & Whitney Houston – A modern take on a classic love song.

Let your joy and love shine through with these fun and cheerful tunes, and create an unforgettable exit that will have your guests smiling from ear to ear!

Contemporary Wedding Ceremony Exit Songs

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Photo by Michelle Flores

These contemporary tunes are perfect for couples who want to showcase their style and leave a lasting impression on their guests. So, let's turn up the volume and explore these absolutely best wedding recessional songs:

  1. "Electric Love" by BØRNS – This electrifying and catchy tune will give your exit a stylish and memorable touch.
  2. "A Sky Full of Stars" by Coldplay – This dreamy and uplifting song will make your wedding exit feel like a magical moment.
  3. "Lover" by Taylor Swift – A romantic and modern choice for couples who want a sweet and heartfelt exit song.
  4. "Shut Up and Dance" by WALK THE MOON – This energetic and fun tune is perfect for couples who want to dance their way out of the ceremony.
  5. "XO" by John Mayer – A beautiful and heartfelt acoustic cover of Beyoncé's hit, perfect for a modern and intimate wedding.
  6. "Feel So Close" by Calvin Harris – This dance-worthy hit will have your guests grooving as you make your exit.
  7. "Adore You" by Harry Styles – A swoon-worthy song that showcases the depth of your love and commitment.
  8. "Good to Be Alive (Hallelujah)" by Andy Grammer – This upbeat and optimistic tune will have your guests clapping and cheering during your exit.
  9. "Dog Days Are Over" by Florence + The Machine – This empowering and uplifting song will set the stage for a joyous celebration.
  10. "First Day of My Life" by Bright Eyes – This sweet and heartfelt indie tune is perfect for couples looking for a non-traditional exit song.
  11. "Just You and I" by Tom Walker – A romantic and inspiring song that highlights the beauty of your journey together.
  12. "Latch" (Acoustic) by Sam Smith – This soulful and stripped-down version of the hit song adds a touch of sophistication to your exit.
  13. "Come and Get Your Love" by Redbone – A feel-good and funky classic that'll give your exit a cool, retro vibe.
  14. "Over and Over Again" by Nathan Sykes – A romantic and heartfelt ballad that captures the beauty of lifelong love.
  15. "Everything" by Michael Bublé – This jazzy and upbeat tune is perfect for couples looking for a modern and stylish exit song.
  16. "Ocean Eyes" by Billie Eilish – This ethereal and captivating song will give your wedding exit a dreamy and enchanting feel.
  17. "You've Got the Love" by Florence + The Machine – A modern and powerful rendition of the classic hit, perfect for a bold and stylish exit.
  18. "Golden Hour" by Kacey Musgraves – This warm and uplifting tune will add a touch of magic to your wedding ceremony exit.
  19. "Tenerife Sea" by Ed Sheeran – This romantic and tender ballad will make your exit feel like a fairytale moment.
  20. "Put a Little Love on Me" by Niall Horan – A heartfelt and soothing song that captures the warmth and beauty of love.

Choose one of these for your wedding ceremony exit, and let your love story shine as you step into your new life together.

Religious Recessional Music For Wedding

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Photo by Olivia Marshall

Here are 20 beautiful and spiritual recessional songs that will resonate with your beliefs and add a touch of sacredness to your special day:

  1. "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" by Ludwig van Beethoven – A classic hymn that celebrates the joy of love and faith.
  2. "Amazing Grace" by John Newton – This powerful and moving hymn will remind everyone of the beauty of grace and redemption.
  3. "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" by Thomas Chisholm – A lovely hymn that celebrates the steadfastness of God's love.
  4. "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling" by Charles Wesley – This traditional hymn beautifully expresses the divine nature of love.
  5. "All Creatures of Our God and King" by St. Francis of Assisi – A joyous and uplifting hymn that praises the beauty of creation.
  6. "Ubi Caritas" (Where Charity and Love Prevail) – A serene and heartfelt chant that evokes the spirit of love and compassion.
  7. "For the Beauty of the Earth" by Folliott S. Pierpoint – A lovely hymn that celebrates the wonder and beauty of creation.
  8. "Be Thou My Vision" – An ancient Irish hymn that calls for guidance and wisdom from God.
  9. "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" by Robert Robinson – A classic hymn that celebrates the source of all blessings.
  10. "In Christ Alone" by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend – A powerful and contemporary hymn that proclaims the strength and hope found in Christ.
  11. "The Lord's Prayer" by Albert Hay Malotte – A beautiful and reverent musical setting of the most famous Christian prayer.
  12. "Canticle of the Sun" by Marty Haugen – A joyful and uplifting hymn inspired by the words of St. Francis of Assisi.
  13. "Make Me a Channel of Your Peace" – A hymn that invokes the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, promoting love, peace, and understanding.
  14. "Blessed Be Your Name" by Matt Redman – A contemporary worship song that praises God in all circumstances.
  15. "10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)" by Matt Redman – A modern hymn that encourages gratitude and worship of God.
  16. "How Great Is Our God" by Chris Tomlin – A powerful and contemporary worship song that proclaims the greatness of God.
  17. "Cornerstone" by Hillsong Worship – A modern worship song that reminds us of the unshakable foundation found in Christ.
  18. "Here I Am, Lord" by Daniel Schutte – A beautiful hymn that speaks of answering God's call with an open heart.
  19. "Lord of All Hopefulness" by Jan Struther – A gentle hymn that asks for God's guidance and presence throughout the day.
  20. "Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty" by Reginald Heber – A majestic hymn that praises the holiness and power of God.

Incorporating one of these religious songs into your wedding ceremony will allow you to share your faith with your loved ones and create a meaningful and spiritual atmosphere on your special day.

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Natali Grace Levine Editor-in-Chief

Manages The Wezoree's content strategy
Writes and edits articles for the Inspiration Blog