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The Ultimate Guide to the Most Popular Wedding Songs for Every Special Moment

 

Choosing the perfect soundtrack for your wedding day can be a daunting task. With so many special moments to consider - from the processional to the first dance to the reception dance party - it's important to select songs that not only reflect your personal style but also keep your guests engaged and energised. But where do you even begin with so many great options out there?

To help make your wedding music planning a little easier, we've compiled the ultimate guide to the most popular wedding songs for every key moment.

Whether you're looking for a romantic ballad for your first dance, a classic instrumental for the ceremony, or an upbeat jam to get everyone on the dance floor, we've got you covered. We analysed data from real weddings to uncover the top songs couples are choosing for each part of the big day.

And while you're here, don't forget to check out White Runway's stunning selection of wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses to perfectly complement your chosen wedding soundtrack. Browse our collection today to find your dream attire!

So grab your partner, put in your earbuds, and get ready to craft the perfect wedding day playlist as we count down the most popular picks for ceremonies, first dances, and receptions. From modern hits to timeless classics, you're sure to find musical inspiration to set the mood and make your special day even more unforgettable.

Let's dive in!

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As you start envisioning your special day, you're probably wondering what tunes will get your guests grooving on the dance floor and what romantic ballads will make your first dance as a married couple unforgettable.

Whether you're looking for a lively party anthem or a sentimental slow dance, we'll uncover the top picks that'll get your guests dancing and create lifelong memories.

 Here are some popular wedding song options that couples love:

  • Perfect - Ed Sheeran: A romantic folk/pop ballad that's tailor-made for fairytale weddings with its heartfelt lyrics and soaring melody.
  • Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran: A romantic folk/pop song envisioning growing old together, with tender lyrics and a soulful groove.
  • All of Me - John Legend: A tender soul piano ballad expressing loving someone completely, flaws and all. Its vulnerability resonates with many couples.
  • Marry You - Bruno Mars: An upbeat, joyful pop song with a catchy chorus celebrating spontaneous love and the excitement of marriage.
  • A Thousand Years - Christina Perri: A sweeping, devotional ballad with a timeless feel, capturing the eternal nature of true love.

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Most Popular First Dance Songs

When it comes to your first dance as a married couple, the right song can make the moment truly magical, and you'll want to choose one that speaks to your love story and leaves a lasting impression on your guests.

Here are some popular first dance song options that couples love:

  • At Last - Etta James: A timeless, soulful ballad expressing the joy of finally finding true love after a long wait. A classic choice for weddings.
  • Can't Help Falling in Love - Elvis Presley: An enduring, swoon-worthy ballad with a simple, yet powerful message of surrendering to love.
  • Perfect - Ed Sheeran: The waltz tempo and romantic lyrics make it a popular choice for couples' first dance as newlyweds.
  • Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran: The lyrics about dancing together even when they're old and grey resonates with couples imagining their future together.
  • All of Me - John Legend: The emotional piano and raw, loving lyrics create an intimate atmosphere perfect for a couple's first dance.

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Most Popular Wedding Ceremony/Processional Songs

You'll likely want to choose a wedding ceremony song that sets the tone for your big day, and these popular processional tunes are sure to get your guests in the mood for love.

For a classic and elegant vibe, consider Canon in D by Pachelbel or Air on the G String by Bach.

If you're looking for something a bit more modern, The Wedding March by Vitamin String Quartet or A Thousand Years by Christina Perri are great options.

Whatever you choose, make sure it's a song that speaks to you and your partner's style. After all, this is the soundtrack to the start of your new life together!

 Here are most popular wedding ceremony / processional song options that couples love:

  • Canon in D - Pachelbel: A classic baroque piece with a stately, yet romantic feel that's a traditional choice for wedding processionals.
  • A Thousand Years - Christina Perri: The lyrics about fearlessly loving someone for a thousand years make it a popular processional song from a bride to her groom.
  • Somewhere Over the Rainbow - Israel Kamakawiwo'ole: This soothing ukulele version of the Wizard of Oz classic lends a dreamy, joyful feel to a wedding processional.
  • Perfect - Ed Sheeran: The romantic lyrics and build to the final chorus make it a popular choice for a bride's entrance.
  • Marry You - Bruno Mars: The upbeat, celebratory vibe works well for a wedding party processional or a couple who wants a fun, light-hearted ceremony entrance.

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Most Popular Wedding Reception/Dance Songs

Get ready to dance the night away with your closest friends and family as you celebrate your new union, and these popular wedding reception songs are guaranteed to get everyone on their feet! You want your guests to have an unforgettable time, and the right tunes can make all the difference.

Here are some popular wedding reception dance song crowd-pleasers to add to your playlist:

  • Uptown Funk - Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars: This funky, infectious hit is a surefire way to get wedding guests of all generations on the dance floor.
  • Crazy in Love - Beyoncé: Queen Bey's breakout hit with its addictive hook and horn samples still fills dance floors at weddings.
  • I Wanna Dance With Somebody - Whitney Houston: An '80s pop/dance classic, this joyful anthem to dancing with your beloved is a wedding reception staple.
  • Don't Stop Believin - Journey: This feel-good '80s rock singalong is a crowd-pleasing wedding reception closer about holding onto dreams and love.
  • Sweet Caroline - Neil Diamond: A folk-rock favourite for its catchy chorus that invites everyone to belt out "so good, so good, so good!"

 

These upbeat tracks will keep the energy high and the dance floor packed all night long.

 

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Most Popular Wedding Prelude Songs

Wedding prelude songs set the tone for the ceremony, creating an atmosphere of love, romance, and anticipation as guests arrive and take their seats. These carefully selected pieces, often instrumental or soft, lyrical melodies, provide a soothing and elegant backdrop that prepares the heart and mind for the beautiful union about to take place.

Here are most popular wedding prelude songs that couples love:

  • Moonlight Sonata - Beethoven: A timeless, emotionally stirring classical piano piece that sets an elegant, romantic tone for the ceremony.
  • A Case of You - Joni Mitchell: A tender, poetic folk song with introspective lyrics that create an intimate, reflective atmosphere.
  • Helplessly Hoping - Crosby, Stills & Nash: A gentle, harmonically rich folk song about the yearning and uncertainty of love.
  • Harvest Moon - Neil Young: A warm, nostalgic country-folk song with a soothing melody that evokes the comfort of enduring love.
  • Make You Feel My Love - Adele: A heartfelt, piano-driven ballad with lyrics about offering unconditional love and support.

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Most Popular Father-Daughter Dance Songs

As the father-daughter dance approaches, you're probably thinking about the perfect song to make this tender moment with your dad truly unforgettable. You want a tune that'll bring tears to his eyes and make you both feel like the luckiest people in the room.

Here are some song ideas for your Father Daughter dance: 

 

  • Dance with My Father - Luther Vandross - a heartwarming tribute to the special bond between you and your dad
  • My Wish by Rascal Flatts - a sweet and sentimental choice that'll make you both smile
  • Stealing Cinderella - Chuck Wicks - a fun and upbeat track that'll get everyone on their feet
  • Butterfly Kisses - Bob Carlisle - a beautiful and emotional ballad that'll leave a lasting impression
  • When You Need Me - Bruce Springsteen: A tender, heartfelt promise of a father's unwavering love and support for his daughter.
  • My Wish - Rascal Flatts: A touching country song expressing a father's hopes and dreams for his daughter's happiness and success.
  • I Loved Her First - Heartland: An emotional country ballad about a father reminiscing about his daughter's childhood and giving her away on her wedding day.

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Most Popular Mother-Son Dance Songs

You're now preparing for the mother-son dance, a heartwarming moment that's sure to bring tears of joy to your mum's eyes! This special dance is a beautiful way to celebrate your bond and create lifelong memories.

When it comes to choosing the perfect Mother Son wedding song, you want something that resonates with your mum's style and your relationship. Some popular choices for mother-son dance songs include 'You Raise Me Up' by Josh Groban, 'A Song for Mama' by Boyz II Men, and 'Through the Years' by Kenny Rogers. These heartfelt ballads will surely get everyone emotional and make this moment truly unforgettable.

 Here are some popular song ideas for your Mother Son dance: 

  • Forever Young - Joan Baez: A gentle, folk-inspired song with lyrics that express a mother's wish for her son to retain his youthful spirit and optimism.
  • In My Life - The Beatles: A nostalgic, introspective song reflecting on the people and memories that have shaped one's life, including a mother's love.
  • God Only Knows - The Beach Boys: A tender, emotional song with a timeless message of the depth and importance of a mother's love.
  • Bridge Over Troubled Water - Simon & Garfunkel: A comforting, gospel-influenced song about offering unwavering support and guidance through life's challenges.
  • Simple Man - Lynyrd Skynyrd: A heartfelt, southern rock ballad with lyrics that capture a mother's wisdom and advice to her son.

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Most Popular Cake Cutting Songs

Time to slice into the sweetest part of the reception - literally! Your cake cutting song sets the tone for this romantic and playful moment. You'll want a tune that's upbeat, yet sentimental, to get your guests in the mood for celebration.

Here are some popular cake cutting songs worth exploring:

  • Sugar, Sugar - The Archies
  • I Choose You - Sara Bareilles
  • Love Shack -The B-52's
  • Cake by the Ocean - DNCE

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Most Popular Bouquet / Garter Toss Songs

Get ready to throw some serious fun into the mix with the bouquet and garter toss, and the perfect playlist to match! You'll want upbeat tracks that'll get the party started and keep it going.

For the bouquet toss, consider modern hits like 'Single Ladies' by Beyoncé or 'Girls Just Want to Have Fun' by Cyndi Lauper. These tunes are sure to get the ladies on their feet and dancing.

For the garter toss, opt for something a bit more playful and cheeky, like 'YMCA' by the Village People or 'Sharp Dressed Man' by ZZ Top. Whatever you choose, make sure it's a song that'll get your guests laughing, cheering, and having a blast!

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Most Popular Last Dance Songs

Saving the best for last, the final dance of the night is a romantic farewell to your wedding celebration, and the perfect song can make it truly unforgettable. You want a tune that'll leave a lasting impression on your guests and create a sweet, sentimental moment with your partner.

Here are some top picks for last dance songs that'll make your heart skip a beat:

  • At Last - Etta James - a soulful, heartfelt ballad that exudes happiness and love
  • Unchained Melody - The Righteous Brothers - a timeless classic that's sure to bring tears to your eyes
  • I Choose You - Sara Bareilles - a sweet, sentimental tune that's perfect for a romantic farewell
  • Save the Last Dance for Me - Michael Bublé: A charming, retro-inspired love song with a swinging rhythm that's ideal for a memorable last dance.
  • The Way You Look Tonight - Frank Sinatra: A timeless, elegant ballad that captures the magic and romance of the wedding day.
  • Wonderful Tonight - Eric Clapton: A tender, slow-dancing classic that expresses appreciation for one's partner and the special moments shared together.
  • Perfect - Ed Sheeran: A romantic, folk-inspired ballad that encapsulates the love and emotion of the wedding day, making it a fitting choice for the final dance.

You've got the playlist! With these top wedding songs in each category, you'll create unforgettable moments that'll leave your guests swooning. From romantic first dances to energetic party anthems, you've got the perfect mix to make your special day truly unforgettable.

And don't forget, White Runway has a stunning collection of wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses to ensure you and your bridal party look absolutely gorgeous as you dance the night away.

Browse our selection today to find the perfect wedding gown to complement your wedding soundtrack.So go ahead, get creative, and make your wedding playlist a reflection of your love story!

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