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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.

Spanish wedding songs are well known for quite a few things, so it’s no surprise that romantic Spanish songs have remained as popular music choices for countless weddings across the world. The passion expressed in a Spanish love song is truly unmatched and has never felt more appropriate than being played during a day that celebrates the love of your relationship. 

Whether you’re of Spanish heritage or not, it’s no surprise if you’re a big fan of Spanish songs. That’s why some of the most popular songs for weddings fall under the category of Spanish music. Merengue, salsa, reggaeton, samba—the list goes on and on. To give all of your guests something to dance to, it’s always a good idea to check all of the boxes.

In recent years, Latin dancing and Latin dancing music have gained popularity beyond leaps and bounds! The media has brought this style of dancing to the forefront and the public has seen how beautiful the dances are and has fallen in love with the music associated with them. Latin music has become mainstream rather than a crossover.

Younger guests will love dancing to hits by new artists like Bad Bunny and Rosalia, while older generations will appreciate classic songs from Celia Cruz and Jose Luis Perales. And when you’re looking to play something that will bring everyone together, you can’t go wrong with fun sing-alongs from old-school legends like Selena and Elvis Crespo. 

From our personal experiences, we can tell you it’s the Latin dance songs that are best able to create that transcendent energy among people, especially at weddings. Some couples can’t imagine their wedding reception without playing popular Spanish songs instead of English ones.

So if you’re looking for the perfect songs for your wedding day and are hoping that it carries some eclectic Spanish flair, you’re in luck. There’s certainly no shortage of Spanish dance songs that beautifully capture the pure, boundless, and ever-lasting memory of a walk down the aisle or a dance between a father and his daughter.

We’ve come up with a handful of songs that we feel are the top romantic Spanish masterpieces of all time that we see clients request for us to play for the most important parts of their weddings. But this doesn’t scratch the surface of the extensive list of Spanish wedding songs because there is so much more we could put up here. If you know the best songs for the English translation of these beautiful ballads and duets, then you’d appreciate great rich cultural music

Romantic Spanish Wedding Songs

Suavemente – Elvis Crespo

This is arguably the greatest Spanish wedding dance of all time. It has a super energetic beat and vibe to it that makes it perfect for any wedding dance party.

This is the #1 most requested dance song for every Latin wedding and is almost always requested at non-Latin weddings as well.

Danza Kuduro – Don Omar & Lucenzo

Like “Suavemente”, this infectious dance monster is an extremely popular song at Latin weddings. This song is a guaranteed dance floor filler.

Despacito – Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee, Justin Bieber

This crossover smash hit was the biggest wedding dance song in 2017. You literally couldn’t go to a wedding that year (and even still) and not hear this song played at least twice. It has a medium-paced reggaetón beat which works super well on the dance floor. 

La Vida Es Un Carnaval – Celia Cruz

This classic Spanish song is still very popular with the older crowd at Latin Weddings. “La Vida Es Un Carnaval” is an all-time great Latin dance song.

You can never go wrong with playing this one.

Vivir Mi Vida – Marc Anthony

This track by Marc Anthony helped him win a Latin Grammy award back in 2013 when it was released. Fun Fact: This song is a cover version of a European song called “C’est La Vie” by Khaled

Experiencia Religiosa – Enrique Iglesias 

If you’re a huge fan of Enrique, you can’t miss out on this. Rating as one of the most popular Spanish wedding songs, it’s perfect for a soulful first dance. This song will take you into romantic depths unknown.

Hoy Tengo Ganas de Ti – Christina Aguilera & Alejandro Fernandez Christina and Alejandro 

Recreate this 1976 hit into a new-age masterpiece. This is one of the best Spanish father-daughter wedding songs. It’s romantic, yet decent and audience-friendly. Originally sung by Miguel Gallardo, the vocal prowess of these singers on this duet makes it one of a kind.

El Amor – Jose Luis Perales 

Ever found the true meaning of love? This classic piece is one of the most interesting wedding songs in Spanish. It explains love in the most basic yet complicated words. As a bond between mother and son or lovers, this is perfect for the mother-son dance and even the first dance.

Por Amarte Asi by Christian Castro ft. Ana Isabelle 

This is the ideal Spanish wedding music for a powerful entrance to your wedding. It is romantic, deep, calming, easy on the ears, and wedding appropriate. Christian and Ana combine their sonorous voices to build a vocal powerhouse. Walk down the aisle to this one, and your day remains unforgettable.

To sum it up, the best Latin dancing songs can bring excitement and joy to any party, gathering, or, better yet, Latin dance party!

Whether you’re a pro-Latin dancer or an amateur doesn’t matter. These songs will hopefully give you a starting part on what will keep your energy level up as you spin around on your all-important day. Each piece can offer you a good time listening or dancing with their authentically Latin beats!

While trying to figure out a first dance song for your wedding, it can help to narrow down options by genre first. Simply choosing your preferred style of music is recommended, but if you and your future spouse have differing taste or you truly enjoy a variety of sounds, you may want to consider R&B.

Fans of the smooth rhythm-and-blues genre love the soulful sound and often sensual beats. Romance is often a lyrical theme for these tunes, meaning there’s quite a variety to choose from that would make for wonderful love songs, and therefore wedding-song options. 

Our Favorite R&B First Dance Wedding Songs

Brian McKnight – “Back at One”

This is another one of those Brian McKnight songs that’s considered melodramatic out in the real world, but within the setting of a wedding party, it fits in as naturally as a bouquet of flowers. This should be played during a slow dance at a wedding reception.

Halo By Beyonce

Beyoncé originally wrote this song about her husband and so the lyrics are filled with love and emotion. The stunning melody will elicit emotional responses in everyone who attends your big day.

All Night Long By Lionel Ritchie

A great song to finish the day of celebrations and a way of ending the party on a high. This Lionel Ritchie song will get everyone back on the dance floor for one final dance and is a great way of getting those hips moving and toes tapping.

“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston

This is a beautiful daddy dance song that will make the most unexpected impact on you and on your guests during your wedding reception. You won’t forget it anytime soon, and it will make a great addition to your father daughter dance. You will love it so much, and your guests will be sure to enjoy the beauty of this song.

“Love On Top” By Beyoncé

“Love On Top” is an amazing combination of R&B and funk influences. Her main vocals, as usual, are full of spirit, and the backing voices keep your ear tailored to each adaptive role. It’s a banger with many feel-good vibes, and the artist’s vocal range seems to have no bounds with so many different sonics. Despite her powerful voice, the instrumental provides a slow and warm backdrop.

“All My Life” By K-Ci And JoJo

This late-’90s love song has become a prom and wedding staple. The voices of brothers K-Ci and JoJo Hailey hit all the right notes as they convey their gratefulness for discovering the love of their lives.

“No One” By Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys is unconcerned about what other people think in this uplifting love song. Nothing can stand in the way of her undying love for her handsome man; she sings passionately. Can we blame her when it comes to matters of the heart? Her personal life inspired her to write one of the best R&B love songs of all time.

“Adorn” by Miguel

With an opening salvo like “these lips can’t wait to taste your skin,” things get steamy quick on Miguel’s 2012 sex-soaked R&B love song. Armed with a deadly falsetto, the crooner melds the sweetness of a young Marvin Gaye with the swag of in-the-club-like-yeah Usher—it’s damn near irresistible.—

“Climax” by Usher

One thing you can count on with Usher is consistency: Two decades into his career, the slick singer is still releasing songs as titillating as, say, “Bad Girl.” “Climax” dropped on Valentine’s Day 2012, and it’s as surefire a soundtrack for horizontal listening as his previous hits; according to Diplo, Usher proposed the idea of “tak[ing] the strip club to the stadium” with its production. And with that dead-sexy falsetto and wax-melting grooves, you can hear it.

Here and Now – Luther Vandross

This beautiful song with tender lyrics it describes a promise of loving each other faithfully for the rest of their lives. Love, in this song, is the sole reason why life is such a beautiful thing. Nothing in the world can take this love away.

So Much in Love – All 4 One

This soulfully mesmerizing song is about a lover who wishes to walk down the aisle and exchange the wedding vows with his lady. To him, after that special moment, they will be together till the end of their lives.

With so many genres of music to choose from and with new R$B songs being released every day, it can be difficult to whittle down your playlist for your wedding day so use this guide to your advantage. If you need more ideas, contact us today!

Let’s face it – you know exactly what music you like to listen to. Your Spotify Wrapped may even tell us that you’re in the top 1% of listeners (kudos to you, that’s a LOT of music)! Now that it’s time to pick out just one song for each of the special moments of your wedding day, you’re stuck. Maybe there are so many songs you love that you don’t even know where to start. Maybe it’s the reverse and you’ve never really been the person that people turn to for building the party playlist – it’s not that your taste in music is bad (there’s no such thing as “bad taste” in music by the way – on this point we must be very clear), you’re just not put in charge of that part of the party. Whatever the reason, you’re feeling stumped, or overwhelmed, and well, that’s where we come in!

First, we promise that the fabulous and award-winning musicians of Around Town Entertainment are incapable of playing music that leaves the party feeling like it’s lacking something. We bring the heat every time, which is why we’re the most-beloved bands in the New York City and tri-state area! So, no matter what music you pick, we promise your guests will love it. With that in mind, we understand if you’re feeling a little stuck! What we’ve gone ahead and done is go through our list of special moments and give you tips on what style of song works best in each category. Style in this sense refers to a song’s qualities, rather than its genre; for example, style would be something like “upbeat, faster (uptempo), celebratory” where genre would be “jazz” or “hip hop” or “acoustic.” The genre should be uniquely you, and it often doesn’t matter when it comes to picking something appropriate for each moment – the style, however, is hugely influential. 

Without further ado, we’re going to work our way through the Special Moment categories listed on our own Final Information Document, given to each of our couples, and recommend what style of music you should look for, or what qualities you should look for in songs you love. The bonus sneaky trick is to use your Spotify account and search a few of these keywords; for example “Happy Upbeat.” Spotify will then pop up a playlist called “My Happy Upbeat Mix” and, lo and behold, it’s a playlist specifically curated for you, of songs you love or have listened to, or are like songs you love and have listened to, that suit the mood “Happy & Upbeat” (wildly cool of them, we know). From there, it becomes a lot easier and less overwhelming to try to find the song that best speaks to you for each moment. Keep in mind, some of the songs are VERY “skater’s choice” – namely your first dance, but on the whole, we think this should help! 

Bridal Party Entrance – This should be an energetic, upbeat, anticipatory, celebratory number! Your bridal party is your hype squad after all! 

Bride/Groom Entrance – Plenty of couples choose to combine their entrance with the bridal party’s so it’s entirely possible to use the same song here. However, it can also be a separate song, in which case, look for something romantic, celebratory, upbeat, happy, danceable, something that says “We did it”! 

First Dance – Remember when we said this one was skater’s choice? Yeah, we meant that. Every couple has a different set of skills on the dance floor and a different tempo that works for them. Strangely (or not so strangely), couples generally don’t need much help picking this one – it usually makes itself known pretty early on since it’s a deeply meaningful one to the two of you. Our one recommendation is to try to find a song with a tempo between 80 and 120 bpm for something that’s a moderate and moveable tempo. Faster than 120 starts to verge a little close to a club bop tempo and slower than 80 begins to feel dirge-like (and this certainly isn’t a funeral)! Not sure what tempo your song is? Check out sites like songbpm.com to find out where your song lies! Of course, the major advantage to hiring a live band is that we can always adjust the tempo of your song if your favorite one isn’t quite right in the recording! 

Traditional Dance – This doesn’t need our suggestions – you know if you need one or not and which one you need if you do! 

Father/Daughter & Mother/Son – We’re combining these two because their style needs are pretty much identical (even if you’re having a non-traditional parent dance)! Look for something sweet, happy, proud, gentle, or upbeat (depending on your relationship)! 

Cake Cutting – There’s literally sugar involved in this one. Look for something sweet! Upbeat tends to help out here, but you can also make it dramatic and slower since there isn’t any dancing for this one. 

Bouquet Toss – This one’s for the girls! Or the singles at large! Traditions are ever-changing and adapting so do with this one as you please. We recommend something energetic, upbeat, possibly feminist (trust us on that search term – Spotify will know to look for songs that hype up the girls), and most of all, FUN! 

Garter Toss – We’ll be so honest, it’s been a long time since we’ve seen a couple choose to do this one. The tradition is considered by most to be a bit outdated and we get it. However, if it feels comfortable for you, pick a song that’s anticipatory, excited, and, let’s face it, sexy. 

Song Requests 1-3 – Skater’s choice!! These are just the three songs you most want to hear on your big day during your dance sets! Typically, upbeat and joyful songs work well, but classics of any genre tend to get people on the dance floor. Trust us to pick lots of those though, so it’s always a good idea to put other songs, no matter what style, that are meaningful to you, here!

It’s official – the temperatures are dropping, the humidity vanishing, the kids are back in school, and the pumpkin spice back in the lattes. Which can only mean one thing really: you’re ready to bust out a sweater, put on ‘When Harry Met Sally,’ and keep all those cozy jazz songs we associate with the film and fall in this part of the country blasting. As a New York City-based company, we here at Around Town Entertainment love autumn in New York and we feel that we’re particularly qualified to tell you all about some of our favorite seasonally appropriate songs – all of which are, of course, also appropriate for your fall wedding! 

September has been an especially busy month for us and who doesn’t love an October wedding before the temperatures drop, or a wedding in the first two weeks of November – also known as the peak season for the colorful leaves around here. Of course, there’s no rule about wedding music being seasonally appropriate, but we find it’s often a really smart and successful move as people tend to dance more to the music they’re craving. Additionally, having the music match your ambience and theme just serves to create an even more cohesive and magical day that’s truly unforgettable. 

 Our award-winning bands and musicians will all tell you that they each have a different favorite song, but we’ve gone ahead and curated a list of songs that’s surprisingly wide-ranging given what we just said about a “cohesive ambience.” Below you’ll find some suggestions that are all linked to autumn in one way or another and who knows? You might just find the perfect song for your fall wedding! We’ve also tucked in suggestions about when each song might be appropriate on your big day – you know us, we love tips and tricks! 

“Autumn in New York” by Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong – Come on, you have to have known we were gonna start with this one! This is an all-time classic and easily the first song that comes to mind when anyone so much as says the words “autumn in New York.” Cozy, warm, nostalgic, slow, this song is perfect for a slow dance. 

“September in the Rain” by Sarah Vaughan – At first, this one doesn’t seem like it’s a love song, but then, surprise! “To every word of love I heard you whisper, the raindrops seemed to play a sweet refrain” comes along and cements this as another cozy jazz standard of a love song. For anyone getting married in September, you get dibs! 

“Autumn” by Couch – Yes, the band’s name is Couch. Trust us, though, this newer song is an absolutely perfect First Dance song with lyrics like “You bring color to my life… and I love autumn the way I love you.” Its melody and instrumentation are entirely modern, but the musical motifs echo the older classic jazz standards, without being one or trying to become one. Unpretentious and heartfelt, this is a song perfect for couples who truly never thought they’d find one another. 

“‘Tis Autumn” by Nat King Cole – This one sneaks up on you, setting the scene for verse after verse until you get to “Me holding you close really is no crime, ask the birds, the bees, and Old Father Time, it’s just to help the mercury climb” that finally reveals this classic to be quite the romantic love song, and absolutely perfect for a wedding even later on in fall when it’s even chillier! 

“September” by Earth, Wind & Fire – This one is about to be incredibly relevant since it begs the question, “Do you remember the twenty-first night of September?” which happens to fall on a Saturday this year! This one is uptempo, rare for this category of songs, and that makes it perfect for an entrance, or even a cake cutting! 

“Just Like Autumn” by Jordy Searcy, Carly Bannister, and The Tuesday Crew – this song is perfect for the acoustic/indie couple. Gentle, acoustic, and sweet, the song is a duet all about falling (in love “just like autumn” and a fabulous choice for either a processional or a first dance! 

“Sweater Weather” by The Neighbourhood – You’ll likely remember this one from 2013, even if you haven’t thought about it in awhile. If classics, jazz, and acoustic music don’t speak to you, this one probably will. Modernist, and pulsing, this one is great for a choreographed first dance or in a dance set!

“Harvest Moon” by Neil Young – this one is actually perfect to incorporate into a dance set if you want to get couples who’ve been married for years onto the dance floor for an “anniversary” dance, with lyrics like “I wanna see you dance again because I’m still in love with you.” If the original Neil Young doesn’t quite do it for you stylistically, check out covers by the band Melt,  Maya Delilah, or Lord Huron! 

“we fell in love in october” by girl in red – Probably the most “indie rock” of all our suggestions, this one is for fans of artists like Lana Del Rey or Phoebe Bridgers, it works incredibly well for our LGBTQ couples. Chill and simple, the lyrics do the lifting on this one. Not what we’d call ideal for a first dance necessarily, but there are lots of ways to work this one in!

Admit it – you read “Wedding March” and a very specific song popped into your head immediately. The question is – which one? There are two entirely different and equally iconic songs often colloquially referred to as “The Wedding March” and it’s more common than you’d think to get them mixed up! As masters of the wedding ceremony music, we here at Around Town have gotten pretty good at reading your minds and knowing which one you mean, but we thought it’d be fun to talk a little about the two – what sets them apart, how each one entered the zeitgeist, and when the best moment to use each of them is, if you want to use either of them! One thing is for sure, no matter what songs you choose for your wedding ceremony, our award winning and top-notch musicians will absolutely knock it out of the park on your big day. 

The first thing we want to clear up is which song is which! We’ll start with a linked list of the two so you know from the outset which one we’re talking about when. 

“Wedding March” by Felix Mendelssohn 

“Here Comes the Bride” or “Bridal Chorus” by Richard Wagner 

Believe it or not, the “Wedding March” wasn’t actually written for weddings at all. That’s right, Mendelssohn didn’t originally compose it with blushing brides and grooms in mind. Instead, he wrote it as part of a suite for—wait for it—Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream! You know, the whimsical play with fairies, mischief, and a little bit of magic. More specifically, the song is meant to accompany the wedding of Titania, the fairy queen, and Duke Theseus. (It’s also a safe bet that Mendelssohn had no idea his music would one day become a wedding staple, but hey, that’s showbiz for you.)

The best part? This masterpiece was written in 1842, which means the “Wedding March” has been setting the tone for joyous occasions for over 180 years. However, it didn’t actually make its debut in a wedding ceremony until 1847, in England. After that, it slowly but surely started gaining steam in the world of weddings, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Now, if you’re wondering where “Here Comes the Bride” comes from, well, we have another fun little artsy backstory for you! It was composed by Richard Wagner for his opera Lohengrin in 1858, and it became a wedding classic after being used for the marriage of Victoria, Princess Royal, to Prince Frederick William of Prussia. 

According to Matthew Campbell, founder of My Wedding Songs (another go-to source for all things wedding music), the “Wedding March” is traditionally used for the processional—aka the moment you walk down the aisle to meet your soon-to-be spouse. But it’s also commonly played during the recessional—the big exit after the “I dos,” when you and your spouse make your first grand appearance as a married couple.

Campbell explains that “Here Comes the Bride” is typically used as the processional (cue all the anticipation and emotion), while Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March” is reserved for the recessional (cue all the celebration and confetti). He describes Wagner’s piece as one that evokes “anticipation and grandeur,” while Mendelssohn’s is all about “joy and celebration.” So, while both pieces are iconic, they serve different vibes and moments during your big day.

In other words, this song can bookend your ceremony with an extra layer of tradition and drama. Think of it as a soundtrack that says, “This is really happening!” into “This happened!”

Now, we can hear you asking: is the “Wedding March” still popular? Short answer? Absolutely. Couples still choose traditional tunes like the “Wedding March” for their ceremonies all the time. But here’s the deal: it’s not mandatory by any means! These days, your wedding is all about personal style, and plenty of couples opt for more contemporary or meaningful songs that reflect their relationship. Whether that means a string quartet playing Mendelssohn or an acoustic version of your favorite indie love song, the choice is 100% yours, and we promise no matter what songs they are, our musicians will bring exactly the sound and feeling you’re looking for! 

Now we do feel we should add a quick caveat for our religious couples, as there are a few things to think about! For one, not all venues are on board with these classics. According to Campbell, some religious settings—especially Catholic churches—might not approve of the “Wedding March” due to its secular origins and its ties to A Midsummer Night’s Dream (hello, fairies and pagan goddesses!). In fact, the Catholic Church advised against using the “Wedding March” in Mass weddings starting in 1971, though in some cases, it can still be used during the processional or recessional. Lohengrin certainly isn’t as pagan, but the opera is a tragedy far more than a romance, with some sorcery and brothers-turned-into-swans; the wedding in which the “Bridal Chorus” occurs falls in the middle of the opera and is followed by less romantic events (spoiler alert: the bride herself dies just before the curtain falls). 

Why the restrictions? Well, it turns out Shakespeare’s play isn’t exactly what you’d call a holy text. Themes of magic, manipulation, and mistaken identities make it a bit of an odd fit for more conservative religious ceremonies. And “Bridal Chorus” could feel like a bit of a bad omen, in addition to coming from a secular source. So, if you’re planning a traditional church wedding, it’s worth checking with your venue to see if they allow the “Wedding March” and “Here Comes the Bride” or if they have any preferred alternatives!

With a name like “Around Town Entertainment” it should come as no surprise that we’re well-traveled; we’ve had the pleasure of performing at countless venues throughout the tri-state area, country and even the world!. So we think we’re a pretty credible source when we tell you that Foxfire Mountain is one of the most stunning, thorough, and attentive venues you could possibly pick! Our award-winning bands consistently have a phenomenal experience working with Foxfire, and, just as importantly, our couples have an equally phenomenal experience. By now, you must have noticed that our second favorite pastime is spilling all the best secrets there are when it comes to wedding planning (our first favorite pastime is, of course, providing the best live music around and keeping your guests on the dance floor all night long with all your favorite songs!), so without further ado, let us tell you all about this absolute gem! 

Let’s be honest—when you’re hunting for the perfect wedding venue, it can feel like scrolling through the same cookie-cutter options. You want something unique, something that feels like you, and ideally, a place where you can escape from the hustle and bustle and let nature work its magic. Enter Foxfire Mountain House, a dreamy Catskills retreat that ticks all the boxes for a wedding that’s anything but ordinary.

Nestled on ten and a half private acres (yep, private—you and your guests will have the whole place to yourselves!), Foxfire Mountain House is like stepping into another world. Imagine towering mountains, fields of wildflowers, and a sparkling pond complete with a picture-perfect bridge. Whether you’re drawn to the romantic woods or the wide-open meadows, the setting alone will have you and your guests swooning before the first dance even begins.

What makes Foxfire truly stand out, though, isn’t just the scenery. It’s the way the property feels like a perfectly curated dream, from the moment you arrive until you reluctantly say goodbye. The main inn, with its eleven impeccably decorated guest rooms, manages to be both luxurious and cozy—think boutique hotel vibes meets rustic charm. For extra space (and let’s face it, extra privacy), you’ve got the adorable Foxfire Cottage, with its four additional guest rooms, plus two separate cabins that are perfect for a little romantic seclusion. 

A Full Wedding Weekend Experience—All Yours

Foxfire doesn’t just want to host your wedding—they want to give you a whole weekend to remember. From Friday afternoon to Sunday morning, you and your guests will have free rein of the entire property. That means you can kick things off with a welcome or rehearsal dinner for your 38 overnight guests (and yes, you can add more if you need!), enjoy breakfast with your crew the next morning, and then ease into your wedding day without a single worry in the world. Think of it as your own mini-vacation wrapped up in a wedding—because who says the party has to end after one day?

The venue itself can accommodate up to 140 guests for the ceremony and reception, making it perfect for intimate gatherings or mid-sized parties. Plus, Foxfire provides everything you need for your event, from ceremony seating to reception tables, dinner chairs, and all the plates, glasses, and flatware your heart desires. No need to rent a thing. Oh, and did I mention there are fresh flowers, candles, lights, and fire pits set up around the property to create that perfectly romantic ambiance? It’s like the set designers of your favorite movie came in and sprinkled fairy dust over every corner of the venue.

Farm-to-Table Feasts Custom-Made for You

When it comes to food, Foxfire gets it. The last thing you want is a standard-issue wedding menu that tastes like it’s been copied and pasted from last weekend’s event. That’s why Foxfire’s culinary team works with you to create a completely custom, farm-to-table menu that reflects your unique taste and style. Whether you’re dreaming of a casual, laid-back BBQ or a multi-course gourmet dinner, they’ve got the culinary chops to bring your vision to life. Plus, everything is locally sourced and sustainable, so you can feel good about what’s on your plate (and in your belly!).

You’ll even get three complimentary vendor meals on reception day, and if your guest list extends beyond the 38 overnight stayers, no problem—Foxfire can easily add more guests to your welcome dinner and breakfast. The flexibility and customization options here are basically endless, which means you get to call the shots.

A Venue that Feels Like Home—Now and Forever

Foxfire has mastered the art of making couples feel like they’ve discovered a secret paradise in the mountains, but they don’t just stop there. They want to be part of your love story for years to come. Once you’ve tied the knot, they’ll invite you back to celebrate anniversaries and milestones, with 25% off lodging, food, and beverages for future stays. How sweet is that? It’s like having a magical second home, just waiting for you to return and relive all the amazing memories from your wedding day. Plus, there’s something undeniably special about coming back to the place where it all began.

And if you’re worried about the nitty-gritty logistics, rest easy—Foxfire has your back. From set-up to clean-up, they handle all the hard stuff so you don’t have to lift a finger. They even provide a restroom trailer for your reception day because, let’s face it, you don’t want any wedding day “uh-oh” moments.

No Gratuities, No Worries

One of the coolest things about Foxfire? Their hospitality extends to how they treat their staff. The entire team is paid a living wage, and the venue provides top-notch benefits, meaning the people helping you create your dream day are genuinely passionate about what they do. No tipping, no service charges, no hidden fees—it’s all about transparency and making sure you can focus on what matters most: celebrating your love with your favorite people.

Your Dream Wedding Awaits at Foxfire

In the end, what makes Foxfire Mountain House such a standout venue is its blend of natural beauty, impeccable hospitality, and a commitment to making your day as personal and unique as possible. Whether you’re imagining a cozy, intimate affair or a larger celebration with everyone you love, Foxfire has the charm, character, and Catskill magic to make it all come to life.

Ready to start planning your wedding weekend escape? Foxfire Mountain House is waiting to welcome you with open arms—and maybe a glass of wine on the Moroccan-tiled veranda.

Before Chappell Roan was a femininomenon who had us feeling hot to go, pulling in record breaking crowds at Lollapalooza, she spent almost 10 years on the music circuit, playing tiny venues as anything but a household name. But in the last year, almost overnight, Chappell has become exactly that, with her tunes blasting in bars, clubs, Ubers, and even during the roll call at the Democratic National Convention last week (her home state of Missouri chose ‘Good Luck, Babe!’ as their signature song). 

And while Chappell Roan’s meteoric rise is well-deserved and yes, we will absolutely play Pink Pony Club at your reception if you put it on your list of requested songs, what we actually want to talk about today are some other young up-and-coming artists with phenomenal music you may not have heard yet that will absolutely get people on their feet and onto the dance floor, or that may be perfect for some of your special moments! They might not be sensations yet, but with music like this, it’s only a matter of time. 

The real bonus of picking songs by artists who are currently lesser-known for your special moments is that you’re unlikely to find the same song being played the next weekend at your friend’s wedding  – you’ll have music that’s just as special and unique as you are! And Around Town’s award-winning and highly-praised bands can learn any song, no matter how new or underground, so don’t worry if you don’t see it on our song list! If you put a song on your Final Information Document in one of the specified boxes, we’ll learn it – even original songs by you, a friend, or a family member! (Yes, we’re seriously that cool.) 

Now, without further ado, let’s get into some underrated artists you might not know (but should)! 

Sammy Rae & The Friends – a queer band from Brooklyn, NY, this band cranks out nothing but bops that are meant to make you feel good, feel seen, and feel like you’ve always got a friend in them. The band has a permanent horn section and the jazzy retropop feel never fails to bring the heat. The music alone is enough to make you fall in love with the band, but it’s the lyrics that really nail home the empathetic nature of this band and their music, wise beyond their years. The group recently released their first-ever love song called “I Get It Now,” but if you’re looking for an upbeat bop “Let’s Throw a Party” never disappoints! 

Olivia Dean – a London-based singer songwriter with a sultry, gritty-yet-smooth voice perfect for the neo soul music she’s lately been taking off with. Amazon Music declared her the Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2021 and she’s slowly been gaining more and more attention, especially on the summer music festival circuit, making quite the splash at Glastonbury and another at Lollapalooza. Her tunes aren’t all over the radio waves yet though, (which is why she still makes this list) and songs like ‘Dive’ could be absolutely perfect for a first dance, or ‘Carmen’ for a parent dance, or a non-traditional parent dance. 

Stephen Day – A Nashville-based boy from Georgia, Stephen beautifully hybrids folk, pop, and singer-songwriter and is popularly monikered as a “crooner.” With lyrics that will surprise you and a down-home feel, his songs are crowd-pleasers, with “If You Were the Rain” perfect for a more upbeat moment, or “It Was You” for a more dramatic one. 

Boys Go To Jupiter – These funky Brooklynites are so new they don’t even have an EP out yet. But the singles they have dropped? Let’s just say “Wall St” goes so hard that when we first heard it we had to play it another 5 times immediately – the clever lyrics and song title initially hide the absolute brilliance of this rocking love song that surprises you repeatedly; every time you think you know where it’s headed musically, it switches it up, keeping you hooked and dancing hard from start to finish. 

Madison Cunningham – A recent opener for Lake Street Dive, this L.A.-based folk singer-songwriter already has a GRAMMY, making her lack of widespread fame even more surprising. Heavily guitar-based, her music focuses on exposing her tender and unique vocals and gorgeously poetic lyrics. Her song ‘Something To Believe In’ is a phenomenal choice for a slower parent dance. 

Couch – Boston-based and quickly gaining critical acclaim, this pop/funk/rock/R&B/soul style band has been described as “breathing new life into the pop scene” by Sheesh Media. And their songs are nothing but crowd-pleasers and good vibes: ‘Black Bear Lane’ especially stands out as a perfect  song to end the night on if you have a grand exit planned to a getaway car! 

Eloise – born in rural France, and now UK-based after a teenagehood spent in London, Eloise got her start posting acoustic covers on Instagram in 2017 and quickly gained support from artists like Billie Eilish and Sam Smith. She’s gained even more praise lately for her way with words, emotion, and unique incorporation of classic styles like jazz, R&B, standards, and current pop. Her music feels naturally intimate in a way that many artists attempt for years and often never achieve. A lot of her songs express complex emotions that may not be the right tone for your big day, but ‘You, Dear’ is a major exception and makes for a perfect first dance.