37 Romantic Instrumental Wedding Songs for Every Part of Your Big Day

Cue all the Bridgerton vibes.
sarah hanlon entertainment and celebrity editor the knot
by
Sarah Hanlon
sarah hanlon entertainment and celebrity editor the knot
Sarah Hanlon
Entertainment & Celebrity Editor
  • Sarah is the Entertainment & Celebrity Editor for The Knot, with special focuses on pop culture and celebrity wedding news.
  • Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Sarah was a contributing writer for Bravo at NBC Universal.
  • Sarah has a degree in journalism and resides in New York City.
Updated Jun 25, 2024

When it comes to picking wedding songs for your big day, some couples might turn to the lyrics to narrow down the best options. But, as self-proclaimed wedding music experts, we can't help but advocate for instrumental wedding songs, too. In fact, some of the most romantic wedding tunes are those without any words at all. Instrumental cover songs are having a moment—and if you watched Bridgerton, you probably understand why. While lyrics can help set the tone for your wedding ceremony and reception, some instrumental songs succeed in evoking a sense of love and romanticism that words can't. It's for this reason that we recommend adding a few instrumental wedding songs to the playlist for your big day.

To help you choose the most memorable tunes, we've rounded up 36 instrumental wedding songs for every moment of your big day, from the ceremony recessional to the first dance and even your after-party. Once you've chosen your favorite options from our roundup below, tell your wedding musicians or DJ which tunes are must-plays so they can add your requests to the wedding day song lineup. Or, if you've hired a band to play live music, ask them to create their own rendition for your celebration. We have a feeling there won't be a dry eye in the house with any of these magical instrumental wedding songs.

Bonus: Listen to these romantic covers with our Instrumental Wedding Songs playlist on Spotify.

Instrumental wedding songs in this article:

Instrumental Wedding Processional Songs

Most couples play music to mark the beginning of the wedding ceremony, and it's common to queue a different song when the to-be-weds walk down the aisle. And, while some of the most classic wedding processional songs are instrumental, you might be in the mood for something a little more modern. Below, find our favorite romantic instrumental songs for your wedding ceremony music.

"I Will Always Love You," Vitamin String Quartet

This cover of Alicia Keys iconic love ballad truly captures the essence of heartfelt romance. It was released in 2023 as part of Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story.

"A Thousand Years," The Piano Guys

This Christina Perri ballad is a no-fail choice for your wedding day. (And if it makes you think of the whimsical forest wedding from Twilight, you're not alone.) This simple piano rendition will offer beautiful background noise as you walk down the aisle.

"Can't Help Falling in Love," Vesislava

You can't go wrong with Elvis Presley for your processional. With a hauntingly beautiful cello feature, your guests will be in awe from the moment you arrive.

"Begin Again," Piano Tribute Players

How about an underrated Taylor Swift song for your wedding ceremony processional? This sweet ballad is a unique choice for couples that want a memorable start to the wedding.

"Meant to Be," Steve Petrunak

Guests will instantly recognize the tune of this popular country love song by Bebe Rexha and Florida Georgia Line, making it a modern choice to kickstart your ceremony.

"Say You Won't Let Go," Ariella Zeitlin

Butterflies? Yeah, you'll have them in your stomach as you walk toward your S.O. with this instrumental wedding song playing softly in the background.

"You Are the Reason," Mareks Radzevics and Judson Hurd

Everyone will recognize this insanely romantic instrumental wedding song from the moment it starts. We can't think of a better way to approach the altar than with something like this accompanying your walk.

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"Thinking Out Loud," Vesislava

You've probably heard this mega-popular Ed Sheeran song at weddings before, but why not try the instrumental version? This cello-heavy cover has a gorgeous depth that'll give you all the feels.

"XO," Midnite String Quartet

You can make any Beyoncé song work for your wedding day, but this one is a no-brainer. Of all the instrumental wedding songs out there, this is one of our favorites.

"Canon in D," Johann Pachelbel

Perhaps you're looking for something a bit more classical. If the traditional "Wedding March" tune by Felix Mendelssohn feels too predictable, consider something like "Canon in D" for your big moment.

"Marry Me," United Guitar Players

Originally by Train, this acoustic guitar instrumental wedding song is particularly appropriate for your big day. Because, after all, we know you'd marry your S.O. today and every day.

Instrumental Wedding Recessional Songs

While the processional song marks the beginning of the ceremony, the recessional song signifies the end. The tune you play for your walk back up the aisle is just as important as the one you play to walk down. So, to help you pick the most romantic one, find our favorite wedding recessional songs that are instrumental below.

"Dynamite," Vitamin String Quartet

From the latest season of Bridgerton, this charming cover of the oh-so-popular BTS song will put your wedding guests in a celebratory mood.

"Wildest Dreams," Duomo

Fact: This instrumental version of Taylor Swift's hit from 1989 will bring the romance as you leave the ceremoney with your spouse. There's a reason this instrumental love song went viral thanks to Bridgerton, and we can't think of a more perfect tune to play as you walk back up the aisle after your ceremony.

"I'm Yours," Guitar Tribute Players

We can't help but swoon over this Jason Mraz ballad, which is a great choice for a cheerful wedding recessional.

"Here Comes the Sun," Nylonwings

Pay homage to The Beatles with this pretty instrumental wedding song. Classic rock fans will recognize this hit from the first note.

"Can You Feel the Love Tonight," Jack Jezzro

Disney music lovers and Elton John fans alike will adore this instrumental wedding song. And, let's face it: By the time you and your spouse recess back up the aisle, there's no doubt everyone will be feeling the love.

"Just The Way You Are," Sing2Piano

Bruno Mars is responsible for some of the most romantic love songs of all time, like this one. With a memorable piano feature, your ceremony recessional will feel like a fairy tale.

"Somewhere Over the Rainbow," Steve Petrunak

Even though this wedding recessional song is instrumental, everyone at your wedding will recognize it even without the lyrics.

"All The Stars," Vitamin String Quartet

Originally by SZA and Kendrick Lamar, "All The Stars" is an unexpected wedding-worthy song. This instrumental cover by Vitamin String Quartet feels modern and of-the-moment, ideal for couples looking for a totally unique way to close their ceremony.

"Love Me Like You Do," Brooklyn Duo

The romance builds throughout this instrumental wedding ceremony song, and we can't help but swoon over the thought of starting newlywed life to the tune of this Ellie Goulding hit.

"Love Story," Bridesmaids Quartet

You do have a wonderful love story, after all, so embark on married life with the instrumental version of one of Taylor Swift's most popular hits.

Instrumental Wedding Reception Songs

Dancing is often a huge component of most wedding receptions, but that doesn't mean you and your guests can't show off your best moves to a few instrumental hits. From covers of hits by artists like Rod Stewart, Florida Georgia Line and, yes, even the Jonas Brothers, here are our favorite instrumental songs for wedding receptions.

"Give Me Everything," Archer Marsh

Make a dramatic grand entrance with this orchestral cover of Pitbull's "Give Me Everything," from the Bridgerton Season 3 scene where Penelope and Colin Bridgerton get intimate for the first time. The opening chords will get your guests' attention and the song builds with exciting energy to kick off the reception festivities.

"Your Song," Attila Fias

Close your eyes and imagine you and your S.O. making your grand entrance to this romantic Elton John song. Iconic, right? It's no wonder why this cover landed a spot on our list of the best instrumental wedding songs of all time.

"If I Ain't Got You," Vitamin String Quartet

This cover of Alicia Keys iconic love ballad truly captures the essence of heartfelt romance making it ideal for a first dance or romantic dinner music. It was released in 2023 as part of Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story.

"You Belong With Me," Duomo

For a first dance straight out of Season 3 of Bridgerton, cue up this moving cover of Taylor Swift's popular track.

"Watermelon Sugar," Vitamin String Quartet

How about some Harry Styles for your wedding reception? This instrumental version of "Watermelon Sugar" will succeed in bringing your guests to the dance floor.

"Sucker," Guitar Tribute Players

We're obsessed with this fun Jonas Brothers song, which was inspired by their wives, so there's no doubt it deserves a spot on your wedding playlist. A slowed-down instrumental version would make for a nice surprise for guests once they hear the chorus.

"Holy," Guitar Tribute Players

Even your cocktail hour playlist can include some instrumental wedding music. ICYMI, "Holy" is an acronym for "High on Loving You"—AKA one of the most romantic country love songs to play on your big day.

"Lover," Edward Ong

Considering the fact that this Taylor Swift song literally has wedding vows as lyrics, we don't blame you for wanting to play it during your big day. But there's also something equally special about this stunning instrumental cover. We love the idea of using this as an entrance song to lead into your first dance.

"Landslide," Kirsten Agresta Copely

If you're not sure what song to use for your parent dances, consider opting for instrumental music. This classic Fleetwood Mac song is a great choice for either the father-daughter or mother-son dance, and the instrumental cover is just as beautiful as the original.

"Girls Like You," Vitamin String Quartet

Looking for upbeat instrumental wedding songs? Try this funky cover of Maroon 5's smash hit during cocktail hour to keep guests dancing while they mingle and snack on hors d'oeuvres.

"Iris," Virtuoso

This classic hit from the Goo Goo Dolls landed a spot on our roundup of the best rock love songs for your wedding day, so it's no surprise that the instrumental version is a great contender too.

"Higher Love," Vitamin String Quartet

The cover of this Whitney Houston song would fit in nicely at any time during your wedding reception, though we love the idea of using it for something special, like during the cake-cutting or for your final exit.

"All of Me," Vesislava

It's rare to attend a wedding that doesn't play this swoon-worthy chart-topper from John Legend. We don't blame you for wanting to play it on your big day—but for something different, we recommend this cover.

"Have I Told You Lately That I Love You," United Guitar Players

If you're looking for the best instrumental wedding songs, we suggest this ethereal rendition of Rod Stewart's classic love ballad.

"We Found Love," 2Cellos

While you might recognize this as a dance-worthy reception song, this version of "We Found Love" by Rihanna and Calvin Harris is just as fun. Play this instrumental wedding song for a grand exit everyone will remember.

Instrumental Wedding Songs by Instrument

If you're looking for the best wedding songs by instrument, find more music inspiration from these music selections:

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