These Are The Best String Quartet Wedding Songs for Your Big Day

On the hunt for string quartet wedding songs? While couples getting married can opt out of many "traditional" wedding elements (balloons instead of flowers, no speeches or colorful wedding attire, for instance), one element that most couples agree is essential is wedding ceremony music. There are a lot of options to choose from when it comes to musical entertainment for your big day, but hiring a string quartet can create a romantic ambiance for your ceremony.

Whether it's to play classical music (think "Canon in D" by Pachelbel and Felix Mendelssohn's "Wedding March") or modern songs during your wedding ceremony, processional, recessional, or during your reception, instrumental wedding songs set to strings create an unparalleled ambiance. Ahead, we've rounded up 22 of the best string quartet wedding songs for your special day.

Bonus: Listen to our picks with The Knot's String Quartet Wedding Songs playlist on Spotify.

"All of Me," John Legend

John Legend's "All of Me" is a must-have on any wedding playlist. Although it features piano music in the original version, it sounds just as beautiful played by a string quartet.

"A Thousand Years," Christina Perri

A true modern classic love song, "A Thousand Years" makes for a beautiful first dance song or processional song for couples who really want to wow their guests.

"Marry You," Bruno Mars

This Bruno Mars song is aptly titled "Marry You" but its cheerful rhythm is what makes it special and memorable. We love this string quartet wedding song particularly for a recessional because it complements the celebratory energy.

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"Can't Help Falling In Love," Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley's "Can't Help Falling in Love" tops the list of best wedding songs time after time. It's romantic. It's classic. Whether you hire a wedding DJ or wedding musicians to play it live on strings, you can't go wrong.

"Thinking Out Loud," Ed Sheeran

Of course, it's not a list of the best string quartet wedding songs without Ed Sheeran in the mix. "Thinking Out Loud" sounds particularly lovely played on strings, and guests of all ages will love it.

"Love on Top," Beyonce

Beyonce has no shortage of beautiful love songs but "Love on Top" is an especially great option for a wedding day, whether it's for a recessional, or played cocktail hour.

"Halo," Beyonce

Beyonce does it again with "Halo." We love this one particularly for walking down the aisle. Add in the string quartet and there won't be a dry eye at the wedding ceremony.

"Can You Feel the Love Tonight," Elton John

With this song playing in the background, your guests will surely feel the love in the air at your wedding ceremony.

"All You Need Is Love," The Beatles

This classic song by The Beatles sounds that much more magical when played by a string quartet, making it a great wedding song choice.

"At Last," Etta James

Etta James' "At Last" has been a wedding song favorite for decades and with good reason. Her vocals, the lyrics, and the music all come together to create one of the most beautiful love songs of all time. It gives classical wedding vibes.

"What a Wonderful World," Louis Armstrong

A beautiful reminder of how wonderful life can be makes this a fitting song choice for a wedding celebration, especially when played by a string quartet.

"I Don't Want to Miss a Thing," Aerosmith

This crowd-pleasing 1998 hit has been a wedding favorite since it's debut. It's the type of song that makes your heart melt and soar every time. It's perfect for a super-emotional processional.

"I'm Yours," Jason Mraz

This beautiful wedding song has a palpable energy of love and celebration which is very appropriate for your special day. When played by a string quartet, it makes it even more special.

"Stand by Me," Ben E. King

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle had this tune performed during their wedding ceremony. So hey, if it's good enough for the royals, it's good enough for us.

"No One," Alicia Keys

Oozing with love and soul, Alicia Keys' songs don't disappoint and "No One" is no different. It's a beautiful option to use as one of your wedding prelude songs for your ceremony.

"Make You Feel My Love," Adele

If there's anyone who can create an epic love song, it's Adele. "Make You Feel My Love" is no exception. It makes for a super-moving processional song, or as an interlude during the ceremony.

"Viva La Vida," Coldplay

This positive, hopeful song lends itself well as a processional song, especially when played by a cello and violins. One word: stunning.

"Somewhere Over the Rainbow," Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

This charming medley is beautiful for a walk down the aisle whether played by a string quartet, string trio or other wedding bands and soloists.

"Hallelujah," Leonard Cohen

We can't think of a more beautiful song to walk down the aisle to than "Hallelujah." Seeing your future spouse at the altar while the string quartet plays this song will truly be a moment you'll never forget.

"Canon in D," Johann Pachelbel

For couples who wish to go with something classic and traditional for their wedding music, "Canon in D" by German composer Johann Pachelbel is one that fits the bill as it was originally written for strings.

"Ave Maria," Franz Schubert

Various artists have recorded this classic wedding song over the years. Beyonce's lyrics are particularly beautiful but the music itself sounds gorgeous played by a string quartet.

"Wedding March," Felix Mendelssohn

It doesn't get more classic than the "Wedding March." It's a great option for couples who really want to make a statement as they walk down the aisle.

More String Quartet Wedding Song Ideas

Looking for even more string quartet wedding songs? Find more music inspiration from these music selections:

• Wedding Ceremony Songs by Genre
• Instrumental Wedding Songs
• Best Love Songs of All Time
• Country Wedding Songs
• Disney Wedding Songs
• Jazz Wedding Songs
• Violin Wedding Songs