Guest post by Hannah at HMH Piano Collective, a team of wedding pianists who specialise in creating unforgettable ceremony moments through live music. I first met Hannah at this spectacular winter wedding at Dewsall Court, where her live wedding ceremony music created the most gorgeous romantic atmosphere and we’ve kept in touch ever since. I love hearing her play!
When it comes to your wedding ceremony, music has the power to set the tone, stir the emotions, and capture the heart of your story as a couple. Over the years, some songs have become absolute favourites for good reason – they’re timeless, romantic, and utterly beautiful.
But what if you love the vibe of a popular song, yet want something a little less expected? Maybe you’ve heard a certain track at several weddings and are after something that still feels like “you,” just with a twist.
If that sounds like you, you’re in the right place! Below, I’ve rounded up some of the most-requested wedding ceremony songs, along with alternative suggestions that keep the same emotional feel or lyrical theme – just with a little less airplay. Think of it as the musical equivalent of wearing a classic dress with a unique twist, or adding a secret detail just for you.
Of course, if one of the “popular” songs below is your song – please don’t change it just for the sake of being different. Music is deeply personal, and your choices should always reflect your love story. This is simply here to spark ideas for couples who might be stuck.
Let’s dive in!
If you love: A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
Try instead: Turning Page – Sleeping at Last
Both featured in the Twilight films, both dripping with gentle romance and poetic lyrics. Turning Page is just as emotional and cinematic, but a little less well-known – making it a hidden gem for walking down the aisle.
If you love: You’re Still the One – Shania Twain
Try instead: Forever Like That – Ben Rector (Acoustic)
Shania’s classic celebrates enduring love, and Forever Like That has a similar message – quiet, sweet, and perfect for couples who’ve grown together over time. The acoustic version is especially wedding ceremony-friendly.
If you love: Perfect – Ed Sheeran
Try instead: Tenerife Sea – Ed Sheeran
Still Ed (because let’s face it, he’s a wedding music king), but with a more delicate, intimate feel. Tenerife Sea is a lovely choice for a less overplayed Sheeran moment.
If you love: A Million Dreams – The Greatest Showman
Try instead: Rewrite the Stars – The Greatest Showman
Still from the same musical, but a little less overused – and still full of magic, hope, and the feeling of building a future together. Great for couples who want a cinematic feel without choosing the most obvious track.
If you love: This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) – Natalie Cole
Try instead: You Make My Dreams – Hall & Oates
Energetic, joyful, and guaranteed to get toes tapping – You Make My Dreams has that same celebratory energy, with a slightly retro vibe. Brilliant for a fun recessional.
If you love: River Flows in You – Yiruma
Try instead: Kiss the Rain – Yiruma
Yiruma’s music is a favourite for a reason – it’s emotional and expressive without needing lyrics. Kiss the Rain offers a similar mood but is played far less often, making it a fresh choice for piano lovers.
If you love: I Giorni – Ludovico Einaudi
Try instead: Una Mattina – Ludovico Einaudi
Equally moving and introspective, Una Mattina carries that same Einaudi magic but with a subtly different energy. Ideal for a reflective prelude or aisle walk.
If you love: Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley
Try instead: Sea of Love – Cat Power
Elvis’ classic is pure romance, and if you’re after something with that same timeless sentiment but a softer, more modern vibe, Sea of Love is a gorgeous alternative. Cat Power’s version is stripped back, haunting, and full of feeling – perfect for a slow walk down the aisle or a quiet moment during your ceremony.
If you love: Canon in D – Pachelbel
Try instead: Salut d’Amour – Elgar
Looking for a classical piece that still feels romantic and ceremonial, but with a bit more movement and emotion? Salut d’Amour is a heartfelt alternative. Its graceful melody makes it ideal for walking down the aisle or as a reflective piece during the signing of the register.
If you love: All You Need Is Love – The Beatles
Try instead: Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles
Still Beatles, still joyful, but Here Comes the Sun has a slightly softer, more acoustic feel that makes it perfect for spring or summer ceremonies. It’s like a warm hug in musical form.
Final Thoughts on Your Wedding Ceremony Music:
Choosing your wedding ceremony music is one of those lovely little details that can really reflect your personality as a couple. Whether you go for the classics or take the road less travelled, make sure your choices feel true to you. And if you’re ever stuck, don’t be afraid to ask your celebrant or musician for suggestions – we’ve heard it all, and we’re here to help bring your soundtrack to life.
