How many processional songs should we pick?
With recorded music you can switch songs for every pair of bridesmaids. With live strings, fewer changes usually make a smoother walk.
Fewer than you might think. One or two processionals often covers everyone: one for family and the wedding party, one for you. Each song change means the players turn pages, which leaves a short gap, and repeating a song for a long procession is completely fine.
Why fewer changes work better live
Between songs, the players have to flip to the next piece of music. It only takes a moment, but the more changes you plan, the more small pauses land between people walking in. That is why we gently push back when a couple wants three songs before the bride.
Some simple fixes:
- Combine the smallest group. If only the groom walks in on his own, let him walk with the parents.
- Repeat instead of switching. With a big wedding party, around a dozen groups, split them across two songs or just loop the first song until everyone is in place.
- Keep it to one. Some couples skip a separate processional for everyone else and use a single song, just for the bride.
Three common plans
One song
Everyone walks to the same piece, or only you walk with music. The simplest and smoothest option.
Two songs
Family and the wedding party share the first song, and you get your own. A good middle ground.
Three songs
Parents and grandparents, then the wedding party, then you. It works; just expect two short pauses.
How do the players know when to switch? We watch the aisle. Typically, when the flower girl reaches the front, we move to your processional. Once you arrive, the music stops so the officiant can begin.
Processional songs in the library
Classic picks include Canon in D, Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, Trumpet Voluntary, Handel's Air in F, Sheep May Safely Graze, Wachet Auf and the Wagner Wedding March. For something modern, couples walk to Taylor Swift's Lover, A Thousand Years, or the Canon in D and Perfect mashup. Browse them all on the song list, and see how many songs the whole ceremony needs.
Walking down the aisle to live strings
★★★★★“As a big Taylor swift fan, it was my dream to walk down the aisle to "Lover"”
★★★★★“The Dream City Quartet added the elegant ambiance I envisioned for my wedding.”
★★★★★“This is the 2nd time we have hired them for a wedding and they play beautifully every time!”
Processional questions
Can one song cover the whole wedding party?
Yes. With a long procession we either split it across two songs or repeat the first song until everyone is in place.
When do you switch to the bride's song?
Typically when the flower girl reaches the front.
Is it OK to loop a song?
Yes. Looping a song is fine, and it avoids the pause that comes with changing songs.
Can we walk in to a pop song?
Yes. Taylor Swift's Lover, A Thousand Years and other pop songs are in the library.