Choosing your wedding ceremony music is one of the most important decisions you'll make — and also one of the most fun. But it can also be really overwhelming. There are SO many songs, so many opinions from family members who definitely have thoughts, and so much pressure to get it "right." So let me, as someone who has literally played violin at over 1,000 weddings, give you the honest guide I wish every couple had.
First: Understand the Structure of Ceremony Music
Your wedding ceremony has four distinct musical moments, and each one has a different emotional purpose:
The Prelude (30 minutes before the ceremony starts): This is background music as guests arrive and find their seats. It sets the tone and mood. Think of it as the opening credits of your wedding movie. You want something beautiful and ambient — not too loud, not too quiet. I love playing a mix of classical pieces and soft contemporary songs during preludes.
The Processional (bridal party entrance): This is when the wedding party walks down the aisle. It can be the same song as the bridal processional or something different. Many couples choose something a little more upbeat or modern for the wedding party and save the most emotional song for the bride's entrance.
The Bridal Processional: This is THE moment. The doors open, everyone stands, and you walk down the aisle. This song needs to make you cry (in the best way). Choose something that means something to you — not just what sounds "wedding-y." The most memorable processionals I've ever played have been deeply personal to the couple.
The Recessional: You're married! This is the celebration song — the one that plays as you walk back up the aisle as a married couple. It should be joyful, upbeat, and make everyone want to cheer. I've played everything from "Marry You" by Bruno Mars to "Can't Stop the Feeling" by Justin Timberlake as recessionals, and the energy is always incredible.
My Most-Requested Songs (And Why They Work)
"A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri — The most popular processional I play, and for good reason. It's romantic, it builds beautifully, and it makes everyone cry. On violin, it's absolutely stunning.
"Canon in D" by Pachelbel — The classic. Timeless, elegant, and genuinely beautiful. If you want something traditional, this is it.
"River Flows in You" by Yiruma — Originally a piano piece, but it translates to violin in a way that's almost more emotional. Perfect for intimate ceremonies.
"Turning Page" by Sleeping at Last — This one is for the couples who want something that feels deeply personal and a little unconventional. It's breathtaking on violin.
"Golden Hour" by JVKE — A newer addition to my repertoire that has quickly become one of my most-requested songs. It's joyful and romantic and sounds incredible on violin.
The Rule I Always Give My Couples
Here's my one rule for choosing ceremony music: choose songs that mean something to YOU, not songs that sound "wedding-appropriate." I've played "Bohemian Rhapsody" as a recessional. I've played the Game of Thrones theme as a processional (the couple were huge fans). I've played "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis for a couple who had their first dance to it in their living room on their third date.
The most beautiful wedding ceremonies I've ever been part of have been the ones where the music told the couple's story. Don't be afraid to ask for something unexpected. That's what I'm here for.
Ready to Plan Your Ceremony Music?
If you're planning a wedding in Arizona and want to talk through your music options, I genuinely love these conversations. Reach out through my Contact page and let's figure out the perfect soundtrack for your day. 🎻
Professional violinist, vocalist, and licensed officiant. Veteran-owned. 1,000+ weddings and events across Arizona, the US, and internationally. Voted #1 in Phoenix Magazine's Best One-Woman Veteran-Owned Band, 2024.