Processional/Recessional

Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” is the most popular processional song among couples, “hands down.” Depending on the tone of your wedding, it’s also fine to stroll down the aisle to something more unique, like Cat Power’s “Sea of Love,” Bruno Mars’ “Marry You,” or Johnny Cash’s “Rose of My Heart;” however, it’s typically the recessional where couples opt for more upbeat and fun selections, such as the Black Eyed Peas’ “I Gotta Feeling” or Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon.”

Cocktail Hour/Dinner

Your goal for times when the focus isn’t dancing: Keep it sonically appropriate but lively! Even though it’s not the throw-down part of the night, it’s still a party.

Jazz standards like Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald and more contemporary artists like Michael Bublé and Norah Jones, as well as classic rock artists, such as Van Morrison, Sting, and Bob Marley, and mellow Indie rockers like Bon Iver, Ingrid Michaelson and Iron & Wine are all highly reccommended.

First & Father/Daughter Dances

The classics still rule. Think the Beatles “In My Life” or Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World.” But feel free to use tunes that have personal history for you, or let you show off some fancy footwork. More couples are now choosing just one song, with bride/father/groom/mother on the floor all at once.

Dancing

If you want to ensure guests of all ages are grooving on the dance floor, play the Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back” – works EVERY time. Other than that, you’ll want a playlist that includes a combo of danceable songs that everyone knows (even grandma) and current hits, be it Beyoncé or My Morning Jacket.

© CTW Features