Marking the Moment: The Best Recessional Wedding Songs for a Memorable Exit

12/28/2024

What is a processional in a wedding


In a wedding, a processional refers to the formal march or parade of participants from the front of the ceremony space to their designated seating areas. This can include:

1. **Wedding party**: The bride, groom, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and flower girls/ring bearers typically walk down the aisle together in a predetermined order.
2. **Family members**: Parents, grandparents, or other honored family members may also be included in the processional.
3. **Minister/Officiant**: The person performing the ceremony will often enter last, just before the wedding party.

The processional usually takes place before the actual ceremony begins. It's an opportunity for the participants to take their seats and prepare for the celebration to come.

Some key points to consider:

* **Order of entry**: Traditionally, the wedding party is introduced in a specific order: bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl/ring bearer, maid of honor/best man, then the bride and groom.
* **Music**: A pre-selected song or piece of music is often played during the processional to add ambiance and significance. This can be a classic wedding march, a modern pop song, or even a special hymn or instrumental selection chosen by the couple.
* **Timing**: The processional typically takes place about 10-15 minutes before the scheduled start time of the ceremony, allowing everyone to get settled and for any last-minute adjustments to be made.

Overall, the processional is an important part of the wedding ceremony, setting the tone for the celebration that follows.


What is a recessional at a wedding ceremony


At a traditional Western-style Christian wedding, the recessional (also known as the procession) is the final processional of the ceremony. It's when the bride, groom, and their attendants exit the ceremony venue after the "I dos" have been exchanged.

Here's what typically happens during the recessional:

1. **The newlyweds exit**: The bride and groom, now husband and wife, walk back down the aisle together, usually to a song of their choice (which is often a lively, upbeat tune). This marks the official end of the ceremony.
2. **Attendants follow**: The bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers accompany the newlyweds out of the venue, often in reverse order of how they entered during the processional.
3. **Special guests exit**: Any special guests, such as the officiant or honor attendants, may also exit with the wedding party.
4. **The happy couple departs**: The newlyweds make their way to a receiving line or a post-ceremony celebration, often accompanied by cheering and well-wishes from the gathered guests.

The recessional is an opportunity for the wedding party to be seen by all the guests one last time, allowing everyone to congratulate the happy couple on their new union. It's also a great chance for some final photos to capture the excitement of the moment!


Recessional Wedding Songs


Recessional wedding songs are an important part of the ceremony, as they signal the end of the service and mark the beginning of the newlyweds' departure from the venue. Here are some popular recessional wedding songs:

1. "Here Comes the Bride" by Richard Wagner - A classic choice that's been a staple at weddings for decades.
2. "Ode to Joy" by Ludwig van Beethoven - A beautiful and uplifting piece that's perfect for a grand exit.
3. "The Wedding March" by Felix Mendelssohn - Another classic choice that's often played during the recessional processional.
4. "Trumpet Voluntary" by Jeremiah Clarke - A lively and upbeat option that's sure to get everyone smiling.
5. "Air on the G String" by Johann Sebastian Bach - A soothing and elegant piece that's perfect for a more low-key recessional.
6. "Hornpipe from Water Music" by George Frideric Handel - A fun and festive choice that's great for couples who want to make a statement.
7. "Mendelssohn's Wedding March" - Another option from Felix Mendelssohn, this one is a bit more mellow than the original but still packs a punch.
8. "The Liberty Bell" by John Philip Sousa - A fun and patriotic choice that's perfect for couples who want to add some flair to their recessional.
9. "Radetzky March" by Johann Strauss II - A lively and energetic option that's sure to get everyone dancing.
10. "The Stars and Stripes Forever" by John Philip Sousa - Another patriotic choice that's perfect for couples who want to celebrate their special day with a bang.

Remember, the recessional song should reflect the couple's personalities and style, so choose one that you both love and that will make your exit from the venue unforgettable!


Recessional wedding order


The recessional is the final processional at a wedding, where the newlyweds exit the ceremony venue after being pronounced husband and wife. Here's a typical recessional wedding order:

1. **Wedding Party**: The maid of honor and best man, followed by the bridesmaids and groomsmen, will lead the way out of the ceremony space.
2. **Groom and Best Man**: The groom and his best man will exit together, usually arm-in-arm or side-by-side.
3. **Bride and Groom**: The newlyweds will then exit together, often with their arms around each other or holding hands. This is a moment for the happy couple to enjoy the applause and admiration of their guests.
4. **Wedding Party (again)**: If there are any additional members of the wedding party, such as flower girls or ring bearers, they may follow the bride and groom out of the ceremony space.

Some variations on the recessional order might include:

* A special song or musical piece playing during the recessional
* The wedding party walking down a separate aisle or exit route to create a more dramatic effect
* The use of props or accessories, such as umbrellas or canopies, to add flair to the recessional

Remember to check with your officiant or wedding planner to confirm the specific recessional order and timing for your ceremony.


Wedding processional order


The wedding processional order is the sequence in which the participants enter the ceremony location during a wedding. Here's a general outline of the typical order:

1. **Prelude music**: Soft background music starts playing to set the mood and signal that the ceremony is about to begin.
2. **Groom, groomsmen, and ring bearer**: The groom, his attendants (groomsmen), and the ring bearer (if applicable) walk down the aisle and take their positions at the front of the ceremony location.
3. **Flower girl and/or junior bridesmaids**: If there are flower girls or junior bridesmaids, they will typically follow the groom's party into the ceremony location.
4. **Parents and family members**: The mothers of the bride and groom, followed by other parents and family members (such as grandparents), will walk down the aisle and take their seats in the front rows.
5. **Bridesmaids**: The bridesmaids, led by the maid or matron of honor, will then enter the ceremony location and take their positions at the front.
6. **Bride**: Finally, the bride walks down the aisle, often accompanied by her father, mother, or another significant family member (or a solo walk for the bride). The bride takes her place at the altar next to the groom.
7. **Processional music**: A special song or hymn is played during this time, and participants may take their seats or prepare for the ceremony.

Some variations on this order might include:

* Adding a processional for the groom's mother or other family members
* Including a special entrance for the bride's mother or other family members
* Having the wedding party enter together as a group (often referred to as a "mass walk" or "group processional")
* Incorporating cultural or personal traditions into the processional order

Remember that the specific processional order can vary depending on the couple's preferences, cultural background, and overall ceremony style.


Traditional wedding recessional


The traditional wedding recessional!

In a traditional wedding, the recessional is the processional that takes place after the ceremony. It's when the newlyweds, accompanied by their attendants (bridesmaids and groomsmen), make their way back down the aisle to exit the ceremony venue.

Here are some details about the traditional wedding recessional:

**Who participates:** The newlyweds (the bride and groom), bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers typically participate in the recessional.

**Order of appearance:** The order is usually: the newlyweds, followed by the attendants (bridesmaids and groomsmen), then the flower girl(s) and ring bearer(s).

**Music:** The recessional music is often a lively, upbeat tune to match the celebratory atmosphere. Common choices include "Here Comes the Bride" (reversed), "Ode to Joy," or a popular pop song.

**Tips:**

1. **Make it fun**: The recessional is a great opportunity for the newlyweds to let loose and have fun with their attendants.
2. **Keep it coordinated**: Ensure that the attire, jewelry, and accessories of the participants are cohesive and match the overall wedding style.
3. **Plan the exit**: Decide on the exit route from the ceremony venue, considering any obstacles or photo opportunities along the way.

**Etiquette tips:**

1. **Don't linger:** Try not to stop or linger at the altar after the ceremony. The recessional is meant to be a quick and joyful procession out of the venue.
2. **Wave but don't block:** Wave to your guests, but avoid blocking their view or obstructing the aisle.
3. **Show appreciation:** Take a moment to thank your wedding party, family members, and friends for their support during the ceremony.

Remember, the recessional is an exciting part of the wedding celebration! Enjoy the moment with your loved ones, and make it a memorable exit from your special day.


Processional and Recessional Graduation


For graduation ceremonies, a processional and recessional are important components to mark the beginning and end of the event. Here's what you need to know:

**Processional:**

* A processional is the ceremonial march or walk that begins the graduation ceremony.
* It typically takes place before the main program starts and sets the tone for the rest of the event.
* The procession usually involves the graduating class, faculty, and other important figures (e.g., administrators, honorary degree recipients).
* Participants may be seated on stage or in a designated area, often accompanied by music or applause.

**Recessional:**

* A recessional is the ceremonial march or walk that concludes the graduation ceremony.
* It typically takes place after the main program has finished and marks the end of the event.
* The recession usually involves the graduating class, faculty, and other important figures (e.g., administrators) exiting the stage or venue in an orderly fashion.
* Music, applause, or a final farewell message may accompany the recessional.

Some key considerations for processions and recessions:

1. **Timing:** Ensure that the procession and recession are well-coordinated with the overall schedule of the event to avoid delays or disruptions.
2. **Order of appearance:** Typically, the most senior or highest-ranking individuals (e.g., university president, honorary degree recipients) lead the procession and recession, followed by faculty members, and then the graduating class.
3. **Music and audio:** Choose music that complements the ceremony's tone and atmosphere. Ensure that audio equipment is functioning properly to accommodate the processional and recessional music.
4. **Lineup and seating:** Confirm the order of participants and seating arrangements in advance to minimize confusion or errors during the procession and recession.
5. **Timing and pacing:** Plan the procession and recession to allow for a smooth transition between events, avoiding excessive delays or pauses.

By considering these factors, you can create a memorable and dignified processional and recessional for your graduates, adding an extra layer of significance to this special milestone.


Best recessional Wedding Songs


The recessional song - the perfect way to end a wedding ceremony and start the celebration! Here are some of the best recessional wedding songs to consider:

**Classic Favorites**

1. "Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles - A timeless choice that's sure to bring joy and sunshine to your special day.
2. "I Choose You" by Sara Bareilles - A sweet, upbeat love song that's perfect for a modern couple.
3. "Marry You" by Bruno Mars - A fun, catchy tune that's all about the excitement of getting married.

**Modern Twists**

1. "Love on Top" by Beyoncé - A funky, energetic choice that's sure to get everyone moving.
2. "Can't Stop the Feeling!" by Justin Timberlake - A feel-good song that's perfect for a wedding recessional.
3. "Unsteady" by X Ambassadors - A modern love song with a soaring chorus and a great energy.

**Timeless Romantics**

1. "At Last" by Etta James - A soulful, classic choice that's perfect for couples who want to make a memorable exit.
2. "It Had to Be You" by Harry Connick Jr. - A charming, old-school love song that's sure to bring smiles to everyone's faces.
3. "The Way We Were" by Barbra Streisand - A nostalgic choice that's perfect for couples who want to make their wedding day feel like a movie.

**Upbeat Anthems**

1. "Best Day of My Life" by American Authors - A fun, indie-pop song that's perfect for a modern couple.
2. "On Top of the World" by Imagine Dragons - A high-energy choice that's sure to get everyone pumped up and excited.
3. "Shut Up and Dance" by Walk the Moon - A fun, upbeat song that's all about letting loose and having a great time.

Remember to choose a recessional song that reflects your personalities, love story, and wedding style. And don't forget to practice your walk beforehand - you'll want to make sure you're confident and comfortable as you exit the ceremony!