Choosing the music for your wedding is a really fun part of planning the big day. But where to start? There are so many songs in the world! You may already have a special song that you love as a couple that simply has to be included somewhere, but you might be in need of some more inspiration…Then read on for a list of my favourite romantic songs!
As a celebrant and a singer, I’ve heard or performed a huge variety of songs at weddings over the years, from The Levellers to Disney, and songs from musicals to 90s house classics!
I’ve had a great time compiling this list of songs that will make your wedding day even more beautiful. Here are the first 5 on my list…Comment below to let me know your favourites!
1. One Hand One Heart from West Side Story
OK, so I am biased about this one as I had it at my wedding…but it is a perfect fit for a wedding ceremony! It’s from the musical West Side Story, which is of course based on the greatest love story ever told, Romeo and Juliet. The star crossed lovers of the musical, Tony and Maria, are imagining what their wedding vows would be like, as they sing with one hand, and one heart. Have a listen to my friends The Knott Singers performing it here (at my wedding!):
Happy Sunday everyone! I've been thinking about wedding songs, and I'm going to make a list of my all time…
Posted by Tom Guest Celebrant on Sunday, 13 September 2020
2. At Last by Etta James
This is a firm favourite with couples, and with good reason. The gorgeous melody has a timeless quality, and there have been many versions by artists as diverse as Glenn Miller, Celine Dion and Beyoncé. But it is this rendition by Etta James from 1960 that is perhaps the most beloved – the sweeping strings and James’ soulful vocals are just beautiful, and will give your ceremony a vintage, classic air of romance.
3. Grow Old With Me by Tom Odell
I first came across this tune when I sang it at my friend’s wedding a couple of years ago. It really captures the exhilarating start of a relationship, and the excitement of the prospect of living a full life, together. It fits really well at any point in the proceedings, but it’s especially effective at the closing of a ceremony. I love it!
4. This Marriage by Eric Whitacre
There is nothing like the sound of a choir to stir the emotions. The next song on my list is this beautiful piece for SATB choir by the American composer Eric Whitacre. It’s a setting of a 13th century Persian poem, This Marriage by Rumi. The poem is often used as a reading, but the choral version is powerful in its simplicity. Whitacre write it for his wife on their 7th anniversary, so it would also be a great choice for a vow renewal ceremony. Have a listen!
5. Méditation from Thaïs by Jules Massenet
The opera Thaïs by Massenet is not particularly well known, but this interlude for solo violin and orchestra is famous as a stand alone piece full of beauty and stillness. It is lovely as a solo piano piece, but if you are lucky enough to find a violinist to play at your wedding it is just stunning, and perfect to accompany the signing part of your ceremony. Have a listen to this gorgeous rendition by violinist Nicola Benedetti:
And they are the first five songs in my (ever increasing!) list of favourite wedding songs! I will be sharing numbers 6-10 in another post, but enjoy listening to these, and make sure you comment below with your suggestions!
Much love,
Tom x