January 2025

There is no love like a mother’s love, and it is mothers who first teach their sons how to love. Which means there’s rarely a dry eye in the house for this touching moment at your reception. We at Around Town absolutely love a good Mother-Son dance, and it’s why we’ve decided to curate a list of some of our (beloved) band’s favorites! We’ve talked before about songs we specifically recommend not using, (as well as songs for a Mother-Daughter dance) but now let’s get into ones we think are great options! 

Before we do, of course, let’s preface with this: go with your gut and trust your mom if she has a song in mind! Moms tend to be right about these things, after all. Most important of all is to make sure you’re talking to her and picking a song that means something to the two of you! That said, if you’re both feeling stuck, we’re here to help! Without further ado, let’s get into it! 

This moment is all about celebrating the bond between you and your mom, and the right song can make it truly unforgettable. So, here are some timeless and contemporary suggestions that will have everyone reaching for the tissues.

Classic Mother-Son Wedding Songs

“What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong – This timeless classic is perfect for a heartfelt dance that celebrates the beauty of the moment.

“Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole – A stunning and timeless duet that honors the special connection between a parent and child, especially since the song is sung by a father and daughter. 

“The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra – A sophisticated, charming, jazzy tune that brings a touch of elegance to the moment.

Contemporary Mother-Son Wedding Songs

“A Song for Mama” by Boyz II Men – This deeply emotional song is a beautiful tribute to a mother’s love and dedication.

“My Wish” by Rascal Flatts – A song that perfectly expresses a parent’s hopes and dreams for their child’s future.

“Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd or Shinedown – A heartfelt song with meaningful lyrics that resonate with both generations.

Sentimental Mother-Son Wedding Songs

“You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban – A powerful ballad that acknowledges the support and inspiration a mother provides.

“Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion – A tribute to the unwavering love and support that a mother offers.

“Forever Young” by Rod Stewart – A wish for the son’s happiness and well-being throughout his life.

Unique Mother-Son Wedding Songs

“How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” by James Taylor – Joyful, upbeat, and, well, sweet, this song truly captures the happiness of the occasion.

“Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses (acoustic version) – A rock classic – and it can be made tender with an acoustic rendition. Believe it or not, there’s a lot of heart in these lyrics! 

“God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys – Beautiful, timeless, catchy, and truly captures the essence of the indomitable nature of a mother’s love. 

Country Mother-Son Wedding Songs

“Humble and Kind” by Tim McGraw – A song that imparts wisdom and love, perfect for this special moment – perfect for sons who know their mothers are always right. 

“Mother Like Mine” by The Band Perry – A deeply touching tribute to a mother’s love and everything she has done.

“I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack – A hopeful and inspiring song that speaks to the future and conveys the enduring power of a mother’s love. 

While these suggestions are a great starting point, choosing a song with personal significance can make this moment even more special. Consider songs that remind you of shared memories or experiences with your mom! Maybe it’s a song she used to sing to you or one that brings back special memories. Perhaps you had a favorite TV show you watched together during the pandemic, with a meaningful song snuck in, or perhaps you go wild and Rick Roll your guests with Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” – especially spot-on if you and your mom are big Ted Lasso fans. In a similar vein, for the Schitt’s Creek fans, “Always be My Baby” by Mariah Carey is an absolutely perfect pick, as is its rootsy cover by Anderson East. Just remember, it’s the personal connection that will make the dance all the more meaningful. 

If you’re still feeling stuck, head on over to our post about using Spotify to help find the perfect song! You and your mom can create a blend or a shared playlist, where you both add songs that you think are contenders. This is especially helpful if you and your mom don’t live near one another or have pretty different schedules – it’ll provide some extra flexibility to the process of picking the perfect song. Best of all, even after you pick The One, you and your mom now both have a playlist full of songs that make you think of each other!

She has been there through many of life’s milestones. She was the first face you saw when you opened your tiny eyes, encouraged you to take the training wheels off your bike, made you soup when you were sick, and then taught you how to make it yourself. 

Through the whole wedding planning process, she has been there every step of the way from asking for guidance to beaming when you found the dress. One way is finding special mother-daughter dance songs to let both of you take the spotlight on your wedding day.

The bond between a mother and daughter is one of the strongest. Mothers are hard workers, sincere, and, most notably, the ultimate role models. Your wedding day will be just as beautiful and emotional for you as it will be for your mother, who is watching her little girl grow up and get married before her eyes. But finding amazing mother-daughter songs to help tell the story especially can be quite difficult. 

It’s up to the bride and mother how much attention they wish to have with mother-daughter songs. Every couple’s music tastes are different. 

When selecting a song to dedicate to your mom, we recommend selecting a song with a special meaning for both of you. Our curated list of mother-daughter songs should help jog your memory or even find a new symbol of your bond.

These songs shouldn’t only be played on special occasions like weddings or Mother’s Day, but they should be played frequently to let your loved ones know exactly how much we appreciate them. 

If you’re just especially close with your mom, you may want to consider dedicating a song to her at your wedding reception. What’s more, dancing with your mom at your wedding—whether it’s for a first dance or an entirely separate number—is a fun and memorable way to capture your unbreakable bond. 

First, you’ll need to pick a mother-daughter dance song that is special, sentimental, and meaningful for both of you. To help get your creative juice

Once you’ve narrowed down your favorite(s) mother-daughter dance songs, contact our wedding band so that we can incorporate your song requests into our band’s set list in time for the big day.

Our Favorite Mother-Daughter Wedding Songs

“I Hope You Dance,” Lee Ann Womack

This Lee Ann Womack song—which has since become an iconic country-pop smash hit—has remained a wedding playlist staple since its 2000 release. The song perfectly conveys a mother’s wishes for her child by encouraging them to take risks, embrace love and live life to the fullest.

“Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion

This song beautifully describes a mom who supports her daughter through good times and bad (and your wedding-planning journey!). If these lyrics ring true to your relationship with Mom, this Celine Dion classic is an ideal choice as a mother-daughter wedding song.

“I Turn To You,” Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera boosted “I Turn To You” to fame following her 2002 rendition of the emotional ballad. Its stunning lyrics, which depict mothers as a loving and rock-solid support system, make it a must-play at your wedding.

“Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac

As a song about the ups and downs of life, and the changes that we all go through as we age, there’s nothing like this hit from Fleetwood Mac to perfectly describe the transformation mother-daughter relationships go through over the years. Stevie Nicks wrote this song to talk about the challenges she was going through in her personal life back in 1974.

“Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder

“Isn’t she lovely?”— a lyric that could perfectly describe both a mother and her daughter. Although Stevie Wonder wrote this to celebrate the birth of his first child, it is a great song that celebrates both mothers and daughters for their inner and outer beauty.

“In My Life,” The Beatles

Music has to power to evoke emotion and offers us a place to reflect on our lives. “In My Life” does this beautifully and simply. The Beatles create this type of musical magic in a seemingly effortless way. The song simultaneously takes you back to your past while making you think about today. It inspires you to think about those you have loved as well as those you love today.

“Mama’s Song” By Carrie Underwood

This wonderful song by Carrie Underwood is something worth listening to. It expresses the mother-daughter love quite accurately in so many words. You will love the emotional lyrics of Mama’s song: “He makes promises he keeps and he’s never gonna leave, so don’t you worry about me, momma!” It’s a must-one for your list of mother-daughter dance songs.

Rockabye’ by Clean Bandit

This is a song about a hardworking mother who ensures that her daughter gets everything that she wants. She doesn’t want her daughter’s life to be hers and takes up all the hardships to make sure that her daughter lives a happy life. The song portrays the selfless love of a mother towards her daughter.

‘I Got You’ by Ciara

The mother wants to tell her daughter that many bad things could happen to her in her life, but her mother will always be there to protect her. In this process, she may have to face many hardships herself, but she will bear it all and stand strong for her child for her daughter.

You’ve done the hard part – you’ve found your live wedding band! Now comes the fun part: choosing the music. There are so many important songs to select for your special day, but one song can be harder than others: The Father/Daughter dance. 

Your first dance partner. The man who taught you just how high the bar should be for your forever dance partner. Fathers wait from the moment their daughters are born for this most special moment – one that famously brings tears to your guests’ eyes. 

Choosing music for your wedding is important and picking the song to dance to with your dad can be tricky, so we at Around Town have assembled a few simple ways to help you find the perfect song for you and your dad, as well as included some examples to get you started! 

But before we do, just a quick reminder that the Father/Daughter dance should be around 2 minutes long – not the whole song! Since you’ve made the clever choice and booked one of our fabulous bands, you’re already in great hands that will make sure you have a seamless cut of whichever song you choose. That said, keep in mind when choosing your song that it will be shortened; so if you have a favorite verse, don’t be afraid to specify! 

Father-Daughter Wedding Songs To Show Love

Often, brides will take this opportunity to pick a song that sends a message, whether that’s telling their dad just how much they love them, or sharing with their guests how important their dad is to them. Both Natalie Cole & Nat King Cole’s posthumous duet of “Unforgettable,” or John Legend & Cynthia Erivo’s cover of The Beach Boys’ “God Only Knows,” immediately evoke that unique feeling of a Father-Daughter bond. Maybe you want a song from Dad’s point of view – Bruce Springsteen’s “When You Need Me” is a classic, as is James Taylor’s “You’ve Got a Friend.” (For the Disney-lovers, a fun riff on this idea is Randy Newman’s “You’ve Got a Friend in Me.”) 

A Walk Down Memory Lane 

While your wedding day is certainly about a walk down the aisle to your future, your Father/Daughter dance is a sweet walk into the past. Think about key memories you have with your dad, or special moments you’ve shared. We don’t have suggestions in this category because these memories are specific to you and will lead to choices all your own – but we do have some questions to get you started! 

Maybe he took you to your first live concert – who was playing? 

How about a meaningful sports game? Did your team have “a song”?

Was there a jam he’d play in the car on the way to school to hype you up for a test? 

Do the two of you have a favorite movie with a memorable song on its soundtrack? 

Did a certain song come on at the school Father/Daughter dance that revealed what kind of dancer your dad truly was? 

Was there simply a song you’d dance to together in the kitchen when you were little? 

Is it a Wonderful World or a Boogie Wonderland? 

Tempo changes everything! When choosing a song for your Father/Daughter dance, keep in mind how much the song moves and grooves. Do you want a nice slow song that’s easy to sway to? Consider songs like Nancy Sinatra’s “It’s For My Dad,” or “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. Or are you the kind of dad and daughter duo who will choreograph a show stopping musical number? Songs that lend themselves to something more high-energy include ABBA’s “Dancing Queen,” The Temptations’ “My Girl,” or Doris Day’s “Papa, Won’t You Dance With Me”. 

Classic Father-Daughter Wedding Songs

While we don’t actually recommend using MKTO’s “Classic” for your Father/Daughter dance (we sure hope your dad doesn’t want to kiss you like Prince or get it on like Marvin Gaye), we do know that in a day full of so many special moments that it’s sometimes comforting to have something picked out that you know will be a hit. So, we took a look at some of the Father/Daughter dances our bands have played to great success recently and compiled a list of classics for you! 

Stevie Wonder’s  “Isn’t She Lovely” 

Guns n’ Roses “Sweet Child O’ Mine” 

Frank Sinatra’s “The Way You Look Tonight”

Tim McGraw’s “My Little Girl”  

Stevie Wonder’s “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” 

Other classics include songs we’ve already mentioned, like “My Girl” and “What a Wonderful World.” 

Save the Best for Last 

Best of all, because you chose to have our live bands play for your special day, if you don’t see the song you want on our list, we’ll learn it! This is our way of guaranteeing that your Father/Daughter dance is as special as your relationship. No matter what song you choose, we’re sure it will be one that shows off the heart and soul of your Father/Daughter relationship – with your signature flair! 

This is it. Your final moments as an unmarried person. All eyes are on you as you process down the aisle on the arm of whomever is “giving you away,” but the most important eyes are, of course, your partner’s. Your soon-to-be spouse is there, waiting for you at the other end of the aisle. Let’s face it, there are some who’ve dreamed about this moment their whole lives and can tell you immediately exactly what song is playing in their minds when they close their eyes and picture it. And kudos to them! We applaud the clarity of their vision!! But what if you close your eyes and you see the moment and you know how you want the music to make you feel or contribute to the ambiance, but you have no idea what song to actually pick for it? That’s where we come in! 

Around Town Entertainment isn’t just here to make sure your reception is the fun-filled dance party of your dreams, we’re here to help ensure that every part of your big day sounds the way you always dreamed it would. So if you’re feeling stuck trying to choose your processional song, we’re here to help make that decision a little easier. 

We’ll kick it off with some fun questions to get the ball rolling on your own creative juices first – after all, the best way to guarantee your day feels as personal as possible for you and your partner is to pick music that’s important and meaningful to you both! But of course, since a game of 20 Questions doesn’t always lead to total consensus, or sometimes just a dead end, we’ve listed a few of our favorite classics at the end. 

So, without further ado, let’s play! 

• When did you and your partner meet? Was there a song that seemed to play all the time around the time you were falling in love? 
• Do you and your partner have a favorite movie? Is there a song or part of the soundtrack you particularly love?
• What about a favorite tv show? Is there a moment in the show that’s perfectly underscored that you both love?
• Do the two of you have a favorite band or musical artist? Have you been to a concert together? 
• Is there a song that your partner has told you makes them think of you? 
• Is there a song that makes you think of your partner? 
• Do you two just have a song that’s “yours”? Keep in mind that even if the song isn’t originally in a style you think is appropriate for a wedding processional, you have one of our award-winning live musicians – which means that the style of the song can be adjusted so the vibe more closely matches what you’re looking for, all while keeping the emotional impact of a song that’s important to the two of you! 
• Were you ever in the car together and a certain song came on and you both just belted your faces off to it? Was there a song that brought you so much inexpressible joy to sing (potentially well, potentially horribly) together? 

Admittedly, that wasn’t technically 20 questions, but we hope that it got the ball rolling and some creative juices flowing for you and your partner! Even if nothing is coming to you right this minute, that’s ok – our brains are mysterious places, so don’t be afraid to just take a few days to let these questions simmer in the back of your mind. Play your favorite playlists (even better if you have a shared playlist) and just go about your life – the right song has a funny way of coming up on shuffle when you least expect it. 

Of course, sometimes our own playlists and memories aren’t the answer, or it’s crunch time and you don’t have a few days to think this one over. So the rest of this post is devoted to giving you a quick list of some of our favorite processional songs that consistently knock it out of the park – we promise they’ll have you and your guests feeling all the right emotions as you walk down the aisle! 

Our Favorite Wedding Processional Songs

“Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles 

“Over the Rainbow,” by Israel Kamakawiwo’

“I Choose You,” by Sarah Bareilles

“Rhythm of Love,” by Plain White T’s

“Dawn,” by Jean-Yves Thibaudet (You’ll know this one from 2005’s Pride & Prejudice) 

“A Thousand Years,” by Christina Perri 

“Your Song,” by Elton John

“The Luckiest” by Ben Folds

“Clair de Lune,” by Claude Debussy

“Canon in D,” by Pachelbel (A true classic in the wedding world) 

“Can’t Help Falling in Love,” by Elvis Presley 

“Falling Slowly,” by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová (Iconically from Once – the film or the Broadway musical) 

“L-O-V-E,” by Nat King Cole

You did it! You got married! You’ve walked down the aisle, exchanged those heartfelt vows, and sealed the deal with a kiss. The cameras have flashed, the guests have mingled (and taken the opportunity to have a cheeky little cocktail and hors d’oeuvre), and now it’s time to eat, drink, be merry, and get your groove on! But in order to do that, you have to actually walk into the room where all your guests are eagerly awaiting that oh-so-special announcement: 

“Now announcing, for the first time, as (insert the description that works best for you and your partner), the new Mr./Mrs. & Mr./Mrs.___!!” 

Doors burst open! You’re there! It’s celebratory! Fun! Magical! THE official start of The Party. 

Please tell us there’s a song playing in your mind as that happens. While some couples choose to enter the room in relative silence, you did the smartest thing ever and hired our live wedding bands to play the most fun, toe-tapping, groove-thang-shaking bops around to get your guests excited and ready to dance the night away in celebration of your love! Which means, of course, that one of the fun moments you get to pick out music for is this: the Reception Entrance Song. 

Let’s dive into why choosing the perfect reception entrance song is an absolute must. First things first, it’s all about setting the tone. Your entrance song isn’t just some background noise; it’s the opening credits to the blockbuster movie that is your wedding reception. Whether you want to kick things off with a bang, set a romantic mood, or get everyone grooving on the dance floor from the get-go, your song choice sets the stage for the entire evening. Think about it – do you want your guests to feel like they’ve stepped into a fairytale romance, a high-energy dance party, or a feel-good celebration of love? Your entrance song sets the tone for the entire night ahead.

Now, let’s talk personalization. This isn’t just any old party – it’s YOUR party. Your reception entrance song is a chance to showcase your personalities, your style, and your love story. Whether it’s a timeless classic that holds sentimental value, a modern hit that gets everyone pumped, or a quirky tune that’s uniquely ‘you,’ your song should scream ‘this is us!’ It’s a reflection of your journey together, your shared interests, and the love that brought you here today. Plus, let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good opportunity to show off their impeccable taste in music?

But hold on, we’re not done yet! Your reception entrance isn’t just about you; it’s about your guests too. Your song choice sets the vibe for the entire room, getting everyone hyped up and ready to celebrate. So why settle for silence when you could have your guests cheering and dancing along from the moment you walk in? Your entrance sets the pace for the rest of the evening, and a killer song choice ensures that the energy stays high and the party keeps rocking all night long.

Now, we know some of you are the “shy and retiring” types who don’t want a big entrance – and we get that! But we have news – on your wedding day, you’re the center of attention no matter what. Your guests are going to be waiting with baited breath for you to enter the reception and all eyes will be on you no matter what. Do you want your entrance to be silent, save for the clapping of your guests, or do you want a song to distract them and get them moving and grooving? Keep in mind, wedding dresses are not typically the lightest or easiest to maneuver in, so for those of you wearing one or walking with someone wearing one: take the time it would ordinarily take you to walk into a room and double it. In great news, Around Town’s live bands are exceptionally clever: for your entrance we’ll generally play the catchiest hook, verse and chorus for whatever song you choose, so the whole moment feels seamless and effortless! 

Of course, we couldn’t possibly leave you hanging without some suggestions to get your creative juices flowing for your epic and magical entrance! Choosing this song is a deeply personal choice, reflecting your unique personalities, preferences, and desired atmosphere for your celebration. So, without further ado, we’ve curated a list featuring both timeless classics and contemporary hits that could serve as fantastic options.

Our Favorite Wedding Entrance Songs

1. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake
2. “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole 
3. “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
4. “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas
5. “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z
6. “You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates
7. “Love on Top” by Beyoncé
8. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” by Stevie Wonder
9. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
10. “I Choose You” by Sara Bareilles
11. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
12. “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles
13. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina & The Waves
14. “I Do” by Colbie Caillat
15. “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors

It’s important to consider various factors such as tempo, lyrics, and overall vibe to ensure the chosen song perfectly complements your vision for your entrance. But don’t forget to consider songs with personal significance or that capture the sheer joy and excitement of the moment. Ultimately, the ideal song is one that resonates deeply with both of you, creating a truly unforgettable entrance to your reception.

In short, your reception entrance song is the ultimate mood-setter, the perfect expression of who you are as a couple, and the key to kicking off the party of a lifetime. So don’t leave it to chance – crank up the volume, let the music speak for you, and get ready to make a grand entrance that nobody will ever forget!

Congratulations! You’ve said “I do,” sealed your love with a kiss, danced your first dance, been toasted (or roasted), you’ve cut some cake and now it’s time to cut up on the dance floor with your nearest and dearest! But what’s the secret to keeping the energy high and the dance floor packed throughout your wedding reception? Well, secrets, secrets are no fun unless they’re shared with everyone, so without further ado… drumroll please… it’s the music! 

At Around Town Entertainment, we understand the importance of crafting the perfect playlist to ensure your guests are grooving all night long. From timeless classics to contemporary hits, we’ve curated a selection of songs guaranteed to ignite the dance floor and create unforgettable memories. On our extensive song list, we have just about everything you could ask for, which is where you come in! Grab your fiancé, a bottle of wine and your favorite snacks, and let’s get down to business – it’s time to highlight to your heart’s content. Highlighting the songs you love on our extensive song list is what gives us a sense of your taste… and what kind of party you’re looking to have! 

If you’re like most of our couples, you’re more than ready to dance the night away all night long with all your favorite people, so below we have a few examples of songs that get people moving and grooving every time; because once you’re finished highlighting the song list, don’t forget you still get to pick 3 specific song requests! While it’s important to pick songs that are meaningful to you and your new spouse, if you wanted to make sure a favorite dance tune came on: this is the place to do it. And remember: if it isn’t on the song list, that doesn’t mean we don’t know it or can’t learn it! Any song in your three requests is a song we will learn and deliver with the same high energy and professionalism you expect from an Around Town live wedding band! 

Our Favorite Upbeat Wedding Dance Songs

1. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars

Kick off the party with this infectious funk-pop anthem that never fails to get people moving. With its irresistible beat and catchy chorus, “Uptown Funk” sets the tone for a night of non-stop fun and celebration.

2. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston

No wedding playlist is complete without a dose of Whitney’s powerhouse vocals. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” is a timeless classic that appeals to guests of all ages, ensuring everyone hits the dance floor.

3. “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon

With its upbeat tempo and feel-good lyrics, “Shut Up and Dance” is guaranteed to have your guests singing along and busting out their best dance moves. It’s the perfect song to keep the energy high and the party vibes going strong.

4. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey

Cue the sing-alongs and air guitar solos! “Don’t Stop Believin'” is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to unite guests in a collective moment of pure joy. It’s a must-have on any wedding playlist for its timeless appeal and infectious optimism.

5. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake brings the funk with “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” This feel-good anthem is guaranteed to have everyone on their feet, dancing like nobody’s watching. It’s the ultimate mood booster for your wedding reception.

6. “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire

Channel disco vibes with “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire. This funky groove is impossible to resist, making it a surefire way to keep the dance floor packed and the good times rolling all night long.

7. “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas

Get the party started with “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas. With its infectious energy and optimistic lyrics, this song is the perfect soundtrack for celebrating love, friendship, and unforgettable moments.

8. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA

Embrace your inner dancing queen with this timeless classic from ABBA. “Dancing Queen” is a wedding reception staple that never fails to get guests of all ages grooving on the dance floor. It’s a nostalgic anthem that brings people together in celebration of love and music.

9. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift

Shake off any wedding day jitters and hit the dance floor with Taylor Swift’s empowering anthem, “Shake It Off.” With its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo, this song is guaranteed to lift spirits and keep the party vibes going strong.

10. “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars

Bruno Mars brings the funk with “24K Magic.” This high-energy track is perfect for getting the party started and keeping the dance floor packed all night long. With its infectious groove and smooth vocals, it’s a surefire hit with wedding guests of all ages.

11. “Dance the Night Away” by Dua Lipa

Some might say this was the song of the summer, and certainly one that kept all the Barbies on their toes in 2023’s smash hit movie. Between the high energy vocals and classic disco feel with a modern twist, we’re pretty sure you’re about to have your own Barbie & Ken dance party for the ages with this hit! 

12. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers

What could be a better song for a wedding reception – right after you’ve “proclaimed” your love for one another – than one that professes just how far you’d go to be with one another? It also doesn’t hurt that this song has a nice steady beat, with a catchy melody and infectious chorus that tends to get even the quietest of partiers hollering along with the “da-da-da-da’s”! 

At Around Town Entertainment, we’re passionate about helping you create the ultimate wedding celebration – no matter what your taste or what songs you choose, our award-winning and highly acclaimed bands will work with you to ensure your reception is a night to remember. So, let’s turn up the music, hit the dance floor, and make memories that last a lifetime!

Bridgerton has safely cemented itself as an international phenomenon – a sensational hit, with its latest season taking the No. 10 spot on the list of Netflix’s most-watched English-language shows. The series, based on Julia Quinn’s novels, offers a captivating mix of romance, drama, and intrigue set in the Regency era. Combining historical settings with modern sensibilities, it features a diverse cast, which is relatively uncommon for period dramas. This inclusivity has been praised for breaking traditional norms and providing broader representation, as well as makes the show relatable and compelling. The show is known for its lavish costumes, grand sets, beautiful cinematography, and sweeping soundtrack. The inclusion of modern music covered in a classical style and contemporary dialogue elements within a historical setting creates a unique and appealing blend. 

The show’s soundtrack sets the tone for the show and its somewhat idealized or fictionalized universe, which is what paves the way beautifully for the anachronistic string and orchestral covers of songs by pop stars the likes of Harry Styles, Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, and, recently and quite memorably, Pitbull. After the release of each season, the covers used in the episodes see a jump in popularity on TikTok and Instagram, not to mention streaming platforms like Spotify or Apple Music. And just how dramatic is this jump? Take the Vitamin String Quartet (VSQ), who perform many of the show’s tracks.  The group saw a massive and almost unprecedented surge in popularity in 2020 after “Bridgerton” first debuted. Prior to the show’s premiere, their total fortnightly streams were at 3.8m, but after the release, that number jumped by 350%.

Now why spend all this time on facts and figures? Because we wanted you to know exactly what we were talking about when we told you that adding a strings trio to your ceremony is one of the best choices you can make – Bridgerton just proves our point for us! You picked Around Town for our award-winning musicians, and we can guarantee that adding our strings instrumentalists to your ceremony is the perfect choice. In just a moment, we’ll dig into some of our favorite suggestions for strings arrangements for your big day, but first, we’ll fill in some of the other reasons that strings are unbeatable in a wedding ceremony. 

First of all, the combination of violin, viola, and cello produces a rich, warm, and sophisticated sound that enhances the romantic and celebratory atmosphere of a wedding. The sound is intimate and can fill a space without being overwhelming, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. String instruments also do not require amplification in the majority of settings, which can simplify logistics and create a more natural, acoustically pleasing experience. Finally, music played by a trio has a timeless quality, appealing to a wide range of tastes and ages, making it not only a safe and classic choice for weddings, but one that can create a sweepingly romantic ambience while remaining intimate in nature.

Now, we come to the best part: what are some of our favorite songs for string trios, either from Bridgerton or elsewhere, that we know will be perfect for the best part of your day. Let’s start with ones from Bridgerton! (We should note that the suggestions below are not a comprehensive list of the various instrumental covers of pop songs used throughout the show; you can view a full list here.)

Our Favorite Bridgerton-Inspired Wedding Songs for Ceremony

“Wildest Dreams” – Taylor Swift, covered by Duomo

Daphne and the Duke begin their married life in Season One, Episode Six to this stunning song, filled with a beautiful push and pull of the strings. The rendition is dynamic but tender, full of anticipation, rising and falling beautifully to evoke feelings of joy and longing. The fact that it also happens to originally be a Taylor Swift bop just makes it a great way to score bonus points with your fianceé, gentlemen! 

“What About Us” – P!nk, covered by Duomo

This beautiful instrumental cover of P!nk’s iconic ballad plays in Season Two, Episode Six, as Kate and Anthony are tricked into meeting in the chapel after Edwina flees from the altar, realizing the two have feelings for one another before they will even admit it to each other. This song underscores the moment the two are forced to come to terms with how they feel about one another, and it’s dramatic chords are perfect for the couple who lives for a bit of intensity. 

“If I Ain’t Got You” – Alicia Keys, performed by Vitamin String Quartet or Queen Charlotte’s Global Orchestra

This stunning arrangement of the Alicia Keys power ballad serves as the underscore for the first dance King George and Queen Charlotte ever share together, in public, at Lady Danbury’s first ball of the season. The moment is something that feels hard-won, triumphant, and yet tender as two people make compromises to make one another happy and their marriage stronger. This is a perfect song for couples who know that strong marriages are built on compromise, and the strings really bring that home with the song’s darker cello line and soaring violin part. 

“Give Me Everything” – Pitbull, covered by Archer Marsh 

…if you or your partner watches Bridgerton in any capacity and didn’t live under a rock this year, you’ll know that this song is a rather… climactic moment in Season Three, Episode Four. No one ever expected a Pitbull song to serve as the underscore for one of the most rewatched scenes in Netflix history, but here we are! Surprisingly, this song brings the heat as a strings piece! With a beautiful melodic tension that builds into broader, more sweeping chords, this song is perfect for the couple that had a longer journey to the altar – but knows they’re marrying their best friend. 

The piano is one of the most versatile and beautiful sounding instruments on the planet so it’s no wonder pianists are in such high demand for wedding ceremonies! They can play everything from Beethoven to Katy Perry and Mozart to Linkin Park, so whatever type of music you’re into, wedding songs for piano sound incredible!

You might be looking for a beautiful rendition of your favorite love song to be played as you walk down the aisle, pianists can do it all and will create an intimate and sophisticated feel to whichever part of your big day you choose. We play the most popular and best wedding songs for piano around, with classical pieces, popular favorites, modern pop and rock songs, and movie themes all making the list.

Whichever songs you choose we play, you can guarantee they’ll sound magical!

In addition, you may also want to add a string quartet or trio to enhance the tone and experience for your guests, from the wedding ceremony to the processional to the recessional. If you’re stumped on what piano wedding songs to choose for your wedding day, we put together some classics for you that are most popular amongst our clients. Whether you’re having a traditional wedding or a unique celebration, these songs are staples for any wedding playlist.

Our Favorite Piano Wedding Songs

“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri

“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri is a timeless and beautiful piano wedding song that has become a favorite choice for couples as they walk down the aisle on their big day. With smooth-as-silk vocals and heartfelt lyrics, this popular song captures the essence of eternal love and commitment.

Whether performed on piano or as a duet, this beautiful song creates an enchanting atmosphere that celebrates the love shared between two people embarking on their journey together as husband and wife.

“Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel

“Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel is a beloved piece of timeless beauty, often associated with the romantic atmosphere of weddings. It’s intricate harmonies and melodic structure, initially composed for three violins and basso, display Pachelbel’s knack for multi-instrument composition.

“Your Song” by Elton John

Elton John’s “Your Song” is a timeless classic that holds a special place in the hearts of many couples. Released in 1970, it quickly became one of Elton John’s most beloved songs and remains a popular choice for weddings.

When choosing music for your wedding, consider adding “Your Song” to your playlist. Its sentimental lyrics evoke emotions that resonate with both brides and grooms-to-be, making it a perfect choice for creating memories that will last a lifetime.

“Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars

“Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars is a beloved wedding song that has captured the hearts of couples all around the world. Released in 2010, this catchy tune quickly climbed its way to the top of the charts, making it an instant hit for weddings everywhere.

The heartfelt lyrics combined with the song’s catchy melody make “Just the Way You Are” an ideal choice for various wedding moments. Whether you’re walking down the aisle or entering your reception as newlyweds, this song sets a loving and celebratory tone.

“Truly Madly Deeply” by Savage Garden

“Truly Madly Deeply” by Savage Garden is a timeless love song that has captured the hearts of couples all over the world. Released in March 1997, this ballad became an instant hit and remains one of Savage Garden’s most beloved tracks.

With its romantic and sentimental feel, “Truly Madly Deeply” has become a popular choice for weddings, making it a perfect addition to your list of top piano wedding songs. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and captivating melody create a moving and emotional experience that perfectly captures the love and commitment shared between two people on their special day.

“Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey

One of the top 47 piano wedding songs that will make your big day even more special is “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey. This enduring song, written by Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry, and Neal Schon, has a unique structure that sticks in your mind.

It’s no wonder this song creates a lively atmosphere on the dance floor with loved ones. Consider adding “Don’t Stop Believin’” to your wedding playlist to create an unforgettable celebration filled with hope and perseverance.

“A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay

Coldplay’s “A Sky Full of Stars” is a song that brings a burst of joy and celebration to any wedding ceremony. With its uplifting lyrics and exhilarating piano-driven melody, this song creates an atmosphere of jubilation and hope.

As the song’s title suggests, “A Sky Full of Stars” is about experiencing love that’s as vast and beautiful as a star-filled sky. It’s a fantastic choice for a joyous moment during the reception or as an upbeat song to close out the evening, ensuring your wedding ends on a high note.

Choosing the perfect piano wedding songs can truly enhance your big day and create a magical atmosphere. Whether you prefer classical pieces or modern hits, there is a wide variety of options to suit every couple’s taste.

Remember that these songs can be customized to reflect your unique love story and personal style. So take some time to explore this list and find the melodies that resonate with you as a coup.