Possibly the most important decision for any couple about to marry, is choosing a song for walking down the aisle.
Who walks down the aisle and who waits?
Traditionally the groom waits for the bride at the alter, in church. With civil ceremonies the groom waits for the bride at the end of the aisle, where the registrars are placed. An old-fashioned tradition seems to be that the groom shouldn’t turn around and look at the bride until she is next to him but this is outdated, and I can’t imagine a bride doesn’t want to be seen by her groom as she walks down the aisle looking so beautiful! These days children are often included in this lovely moment which makes it all the more special.
Same Sex Weddings
In more recent years this walk down the aisle takes many forms, especially with same sex weddings. I have played at weddings where one partner has waited for the other or sometimes both partners walk down the aisle, either separately or together. This decision should be made based on making the ceremony feel special, and whatever makes both partners feel comfortable. One of the most important factors to consider when walking down the aisle is the song.
Popular in 2019 for walking down the aisle
I have compiled list of all the songs chosen for me to play on the piano, for walking down the aisle, during 2019.
The most chosen song, which has been popular for a number of years is ‘A Thousand Years’ by Christina Perri from the Twilight films. I played this for 15 wedding ceremony entrances this year. It was also requested by countless couples where I was playing during the drinks reception or wedding breakfast. It is a very popular and beautiful wedding song.
Also popular for walking down the aisle in 2019 was Pachelbel’s Canon (5 weddings) for a more traditional entrance. Jonathan Cain’s Bridal March (5 weddings) is also popular for a traditional entrance with a modern twist.
A Song For Walking Down The Aisle – 2019 list.
Here is a list of all songs for walking down the aisle, requested in 2019, starting with the most chosen songs.
A Thousand Years – Christina Perri (Twilight)
Pachelbel’s Canon
Bridal March -Jonathan Cain
How Long Will I Love You – Ellie Goulding
Just The Way You Are- Bruno Mars
Can’t Help Falling in Love- Elvis Presley/ Hayley Reinhart
Perfect- Ed Sheeran
Heaven- Bryan Adams/ DJ Sammy
Wonderful Tonight- Eric Clapton
A Million Dreams (Greatest Showman)
Thinking Out Loud- Ed Sheeran
Beauty and the Beast (Disney)
Halo- Beyoncé
The One- Kodaline
Kissing You – Des’ ree (Romeo and Juliet)
A Whole New World (Disney)
All of Me- John Legend
From This Moment- Shania Twain
Love You Til The End- The Pogues (P.S. I Love You)
Rewrite The Stars (Greatest Showman)
Latch – Sam Smith
Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler (Beaches)
Hedwig’s Theme (Harry Potter)
Every Time We Touch- Cascada
Turning Page – Sleeping at Last (Twilight)
You’re Still The One- Shania Twain
Love is All Around- Wet Wet Wet (4 Weddings and a Funeral)
Always- Blink 182
Someday My Prince Will Come (Disney)
Too Close – Alex Clare
Primavera- Einaudi
I hope this gives you some ideas when thinking of a song for walking down the aisle and as always, I would advise keeping it live, as having a live musician can have a wonderful impact on your wedding ceremony!
Happy Wedding Planning!
Liz Hendry
