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From Aisle to Afterparty: Recommended Wedding Songs

Headshot of Fran Cavalier
Fran Cavalier Updated:
4th of June 2025

Your wedding playlist should feel like you - current, fresh, and maybe even a little viral. Whether it's a slow, emotional walk down the aisle or a chaotic dance-floor takeover at the reception, the right wedding songs can set the perfect tone. These recommended wedding songs reflect today's most memorable sounds, from TikTok hits and indie bangers to soulful alt-R&B favourites. The goal is to curate moments that feel authentic, intimate, and full of energy.

In this blog, you'll find everything from emotional first dance songs to upbeat wedding exit songs and electronic wedding songs made for the afterparty. Whether you're into heartfelt ballads or high-BPM tracks that light up the night, this guide covers every musical moment of your big day. Let your soundtrack be as unforgettable as your celebration.

Wedding Ceremony Songs

Modern, emotional, and tastefully understated, these songs are ideal for couples looking to create a meaningful ceremony without leaning on the usual wedding clichés. Tracks like “Invisible String” by Taylor Swift and “First Day of My Life” by Bright Eyes offer a subtle, sincere tone that feels personal without being overly sentimental. For a more contemporary edge, “Home” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros or “Better Together” by Jack Johnson bring warmth and familiarity in a laid-back, melodic way. These songs strike the balance between emotional resonance and modern style-perfect for a ceremony that feels thoughtful and true to you.

  1. “Invisible String” by Taylor Swift
  2. “Until I Found You” by Stephen Sanchez
  3. Turning Page" by Sleeping At Last
  4. “Lover (First Dance Remix)” by Taylor Swift
  5. “Flightless Bird, American Mouth” by Iron & Wine
  6. "River" by Leon Bridges
  7. "I Get to Love You" by Ruelle
  8. “Home” by Edith Whiskers (cover of Edward Sharpe)
  9. "Beyond" by Leon Bridges
  10. "I Like Me Better" by Lauv

Wedding First Dance Songs

For a first dance that feels genuine and contemporary, these songs blend emotional depth with a fresh, modern sound. Tracks like “Beyond” by Leon Bridges and “Adore You” by Harry Styles offer smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics without veering into overly dramatic territory. “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne brings a soulful, upbeat vibe for couples who want something joyful but still romantic. If you're leaning toward something stripped-back and intimate, “Sweet” by Cigarettes After Sex or “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron delivers mood and atmosphere in a subtle, cinematic way. These songs set the tone for a memorable first dance that feels timeless but undeniably yours.

  1. I Won't Give Up" by Jason Mraz
  2. “You're the One” by Rhiannon Giddens ft. Iron & Wine
  3. Conversations in the Dark" by John Legend
  4. “Like Real People Do” by Hozier
  5. “Lover” by Taylor Swift (Acoustic or First Dance Version)
  6. “The One” by Taylor Swift
  7. “Landslide (Live)” by The Chicks
  8. "The Luckiest" by Ben Folds
  9. "By Your Side" by Sade
  10. "Everywhere" by Fleetwood Mac

Electric Wedding Songs

If you're aiming for a high-energy, modern vibe, electronic wedding songs can instantly elevate the mood and get the party going. Tracks like “Electric Feel” by MGMT and “Midnight City” by M83 bring a cool, synth-driven atmosphere that feels stylish and danceable. For something more recent, “On Hold” by The xx or “Higher Love” (Kygo Remix) blends emotional vocals with polished production-perfect for a smooth transition from ceremony to celebration. Whether you're building toward a dance-floor moment or just want something with pulse and personality, these electronic tracks keep things fresh without feeling too clubby or chaotic.

  1. “Baby Don't Hurt Me” by David Guetta, Anne-Marie, Coi Leray
  2. “One Kiss” by Calvin Harris & Dua Lipa
  3. “Rush” by Troye Sivan
  4. Blinding Lights" by The Weeknd
  5. “On My Mama” by Victoria Monét
  6. “Party Girls” by Victoria Monét ft. Buju Banton
  7. “Padam Padam” by Kylie Minogue (TikTok fave)
  8. “Murder on the Dancefloor” by Sophie Ellis-Bextor (post-Saltburn revival)
  9. "As It Was" by Harry Style
  10. "Dance The Night" by Dua Lipa

Wedding Exit Songs

Your wedding exit song should feel like a celebration-joyful, bold, and full of momentum. Whether you're heading back up the aisle or making your final exit of the night, tracks like “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole and “You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates bring an instant sense of fun and finality. For something with a modern twist, “Feel It Still” by Portugal. The Man or “Good as Hell” by Lizzo adds personality and punch. These songs are all about sending you off in style-upbeat, memorable, and totally reflective of the moment.

  1. “About Damn Time” by Lizzo
  2. “Golden” by Harry Styles
  3. “Electric Love” by BØRNS
  4. "Good Feeling" by Flo Rida
  5. “Sunroof” by Nicky Youre & dazy
  6. “Love Again” by Dua Lipa
  7. Crazy in Love" by Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z
  8. “As It Was” by Harry Styles
  9. “Bejeweled” by Taylor Swift
  10. “Bubbly” by Colbie Caillat (soft classic Gen Z still loves)

Funny Wedding Songs

Not every wedding moment has to be serious-funny wedding songs are a great way to show off your personality and keep the vibe lighthearted. Whether it's during your reception entrance or a surprise twist in the first dance, comical wedding songs like “Marry You” by Bruno Mars or “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley add just the right touch of humour. These tracks bring energy, laughter, and a sense of fun that can make your big day feel even more memorable.

  1. “Barbie Girl” by Aqua
  2. “I'm Just Ken” by Ryan Gosling
  3. “Mii Channel Theme” by Nintendo
  4. “Glamorous” by Fergie (for the champagne pour moment)
  5. "Wannabe" by Spice Girls
  6. "Everything Is Awesome" by Tegan and Sara ft. The Lonely Island (from The Lego Movie)
  7. "Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen
  8. “Tik Tok” by Kesha (it's back)
  9. "Cotton Eye Joe" by Rednex
  10. “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley

Ready to plan the perfect wedding soundtrack? If you're in the middle of your wedding planning journey, don't forget the vibes are only as good as the people playing them. Check out our top-rated wedding DJs and live music suppliers to bring your ultimate playlist to life.

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About the author
Fran Cavalier
Fran is the social media expert at Guides for Brides, crafting the scroll-stopping content, trends, and wedding tips couples can’t get enough of. With a degree in Creative Writing and a natural flair for storytelling, she brings both style and substance to every article and social post. Whether you're searching for your perfect venue or deep in the inspo phase, Fran’s got the trend knowledge, planning advice, and fresh ideas to help make your big day unforgettable.

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