Less Traditional Love Songs Suitable for Weddings
Let’s be honest…the sheer volume of detail and planning that goes into a wedding can be overwhelming. From the decor, to dinner options, to the colors of practically everything...It’s all beautiful and enough to make your head spin at the same time!
Another of the numerous decisions that must be made when organizing a wedding is music.
As a wedding harpist, my greatest fulfillment comes from making sure my couples are happy—not only by playing for them during this memorable occasion, but also by easing the music selection process!
Music brings a distinctive touch to any event and has the power of making your day uniquely "you". It's important to include music that represent you as a couple, whether it be through songs with special meaning, songs with fond memories, or songs that give you both a sensation you want to feel on your wedding day!
Credit: Photobyjulieta
With all that said, it’s okay to be different and even select music your guests may be hearing for the first time!
We all know and adore the traditional love songs such as ‘A Thousand Years’ by Christina Perri and the many Ed Sheeran classics—because how could we not? They are all ‘Perfect’ wedding tunes! That was an Ed Sheeran reference incase you missed it…
But for the less traditional couple, so many love songs exist that are appropriate for weddings and haven’t yet been overused!
Looking for less traditional love songs to be played on your wedding day? I’ve got you covered!
Yellow - Coldplay
A song about devotion and sacrificing everything for the person you love! An instrumental version makes for a lovely recessional choice.
Wildest Dreams - Duomo
When Duomo's instrumental rendition of Taylor Swift's "Wildest Dreams" originally appeared on Bridgerton, many people, including myself, fell in love with it. Despite its popularity, the song isn't yet considered a wedding classic, but surely an enchanting melody to consider for walking down the aisle.
A Million Dreams - The Greatest Showman
From the movie The Greatest Showman, this track is about sharing your dreams with someone and doing whatever it takes to achieve them. A dance to this song is wonderful way to begin a marriage and live out your dream wedding day!
Credit: Purpletreephotography
Always Remember Us This Way - Lady Gaga
Always remember the sweet moments in the bad times, as there will be both in marriage! While some might claim that the lyrics aren’t ideal for a wedding, others have chosen it as their first dance! Your interpretation of the song's message is what counts. Whatever the case, the melody is pretty lovely and is perfect for cocktail hour background music.
Halo - Beyonce
‘You’re everything I need and more…’
Ideal as processional music or the first dance, this song represents taking a chance and falling in love.
Sky Full of Stars - Coldplay
This Coldplay hit is an expression of admiration for both one's inner and exterior beauty. This song, which begins as a piano ballad and gradually becomes more upbeat, is excellent for wedding reception music.
Oceans- Hillsong
A modern Christian song and one of my favorites to play during wedding entrances. The melody combined with the bride walking down the aisle always creates a very emotional moment!
Credit: Purpletreephotography
Peaches - Justin Bieber
‘There’s nothing like your touch / It’s the way you lift me up / And I’ll be right here with you ‘til the end’
A tribute to Hailey Bieber and the love Justin has for her with lyrics that resemble wedding vows—a lively song for background or dancing reception music.
Ocean Eyes - Billie Eilish
Billie relates her lover’s eyes to the beauty of the ocean that are easy to fall into. The melodious tune is soothing and pleasing to the ear.
Hold on, We’re Going Home - Drake
Perhaps I’ve saved the most unexpected love song for last! In this R&B hit, Drake describes his intense love for a woman and compares their relationship to being at home; warm, comfortable, and a place where one can be themselves. How all true love ought to be!
Credit: Elizabethinlove
Instrumental or lyrical, either version of the songs I’ve shared above will surely add a less traditional and more contemporary twist to your event! Remember, music has a way of making moments personal. Be intentional, true to yourself, and choose what feels right!
Don't hesitate to get in touch if you need further advice on choosing your wedding's music. And if you happen to be in search of a harpist to play these songs on your special day, I know a girl for that as well!
For now, head over to my Instagram @denisefungmusic for more song samples and harp covers of a few songs mentioned above!