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2025 Wedding Recessional Songs (After I Do)

March 16, 2025 by jenni 7 Comments

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You’ve exchanged your rings, said “I Do” and finally shared that first kiss as a married couple. Congratulations! Now, which song do the newlyweds (I’m talking about you!) wish to hear first as they make their way back up the aisle?? Will it be romantic, happy, funny, or simply one you both enjoy? Here is a list of possible Wedding Recessional Songs for 2025.

Couple arm in arm while walking back down the aisle in wedding attire looking at guests on either side, with overlay text reading "wedding songs walking back after I do".

Listen to the Playlist

All songs can be found on this Spotify Playlist: 2025 Wedding Recessional Songs (After I Do). There are more songs on the playlist than are listed in this article. Below are just a few of the songs selected as top wedding songs for walking back up the aisle as newlyweds!


Songs for Walking Back Up the Aisle (Recessional)

A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Op. 61: IX. Wedding March by Mendelssohn

Classical – Orchestra Instrumental
Midsummer Night’s Dream, Op. 61: IX. Wedding March by Felix Mendelssohn is a lively piece composed in 1842 as part of the incidental music for Shakespeare’s play. The celebratory melody has become iconic and is frequently played at weddings. The piece’s triumphant character and Mendelssohn’s orchestration make it a timeless symbol of marital celebration.

Bride and groom embrace after their lakeside wedding ceremony.

Right Back Where We Started From by Maxine Nightingale

R&B/Soul – Full Band Background – Feminine Voice
A strong, enduring love is the focus of this song. The singer recalls the day they first met and the deep connection felt. The song emphasizes how love can be tested, but it remains powerful. The singer expresses that their partner is the only one for them.

Classic by MKTO

Pop – Full Band Background – Masculine Voices
This song is a heartfelt ode to a timeless love. It celebrates a woman of unique beauty and classic elegance. Captivated by her old-school sophistication, he feels born in the wrong time to appreciate her fully. The song blends nostalgia and modern affection. It paints a picture of love that is both timeless and unforgettable.

Couple in wedding attire walking away from the ceremony site smiling and holding hands.
Photo courtesy of Anastasia Cherie Photography

This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) by Natalie Cole

Pop – Full Band Background – Feminine Voice
These lyrics express a deep, passionate love that feels everlasting. The singer is overjoyed to have found their partner who brings happiness, joy, and fulfillment. The love they share feels like a dream come true. The singer vows eternal love and devotion.

be my forever (feat. ed Sheeran) by Christina Perri

Pop – Piano w/ Drums & Guitar Background – Feminine (Christina) & Masculine (Ed) Voices 
It starts off a bit slow, but the chorus is so cute! These lyrics express deep, passionate love and a desire for commitment. The singer feels on top of the world and wants their partner to stay forever. The singer asks for a promise to stay. Their heart and mind know the relationship is right.

A man signing a document while a smiling blonde woman wearing a veil over looks.
A wedding couple kiss in a deep dip, in front of a wood door with a rock surround on a log cabin.

Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours by Stevie Wonder

Soul/Jazz – Full Band Background – Masculine Voice
This soulful song expresses regret over past mistakes in a relationship. The singer acknowledges staying too long and saying goodbye. Now, they recognize their partner as their heart’s true desire. They declare full commitment, saying they are “signed, sealed, delivered.”

We Are Family by Sister Sledge

R&B/Soul – Full Band Background – Feminine Voices
These lyrics celebrate family strength, unity, love and the support they share. They highlight the powerful connection and close bond of family. The chorus, “We are family,” calls everyone to join in and sing along. The song reflects the joy of being united as a family.

Bride and groom share a kiss while groom covers his eyes.

How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) by James Taylor

Pop/Folk – Full Band Background – Masculine Voice
This song emphasizes love’s transformative power, bringing warmth, happiness, and belonging. The lyrics of “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” express gratitude and joy for a partner’s love. The singer reflects on their partner’s emotional comfort and understanding. Their love brightens life, making everything else seem dull. The singer compares love to sweet things like sugar, jelly, and honey.

With This Ring by The Platters

Pop – Full Band Background – Masculine Voice
The lyrics express a deep commitment to love and loyalty. The singer, once a wanderer, promises to stay devoted. They pledge to cherish their partner forever. The ring symbolizes this promise of everlasting love.

Bride and groom display their fingers with their wedding bands while smiling towards the camera.
Photo courtesy of Anastasia Cherie Photography
Man in a plaid long sleeve shirt kisses a woman in a tan long sleeve shirt with ruffles as she displays her engagement ring on an outstretched hand towards the camera at sunset.
Photo courtesy of Anastasia Cherie Photography

I Do by Colbie Caillat

Pop – Ukulele & Background Acoustics – Feminine Voice
Colbie Caillat has such a fun vibe with the ability to make those listening feel loved and at ease with her songs. The lyrics reflect a personal transformation driven by love. The singer once saw relationships as only fleeting connections. Now, they’ve found something different in their partner. They say “I do” and embrace lasting love. They envision a future together, growing old and reminiscing.

Almost Like Being In Love by Nat King Cole

Jazz – Full Band Background – Masculine Voice
The singer describes a blissful, uplifting mood. They feel in love, though they can’t pinpoint why. Their joy is contagious. A smile radiates positivity to those around them. The world feels vibrant and full of life. Everything around them aligns in harmony. It’s a moment of pure emotional euphoria.

Woman in a white two-piece dress holding a bouquet being lead by a man in a tan suit walking an Australian shepherd in the forest.

Yes Sir, That’s My Baby by Frank Sinatra

Big Band – Full Band Background – Masculine Voice
You cannot go wrong with the iconic crooner, Frank Sinatra. This song captures the excitement of a new chapter filled with love. Frank joyfully declares his commitment, expressing certainty and pride in his decision. With a playful tone, he confirms he is ready to share his love.

I’m A Believer by Smash Mouth

Alternative/Indie/Pop – Full Band Background – Masculine Voice
To all my Shrek lovers, this one is for you! These lyrics express doubts about love, thinking it is meant for others. Everything changes when they meet someone special. They feel an undeniable happy connection and are officially a believer in love. The song celebrates love’s power to transform and bring joy.

Mountain resort wedding photos with bride and groom embracing atop a peak.
Mountain resort wedding photos with bride and groom embracing atop a log near a ski lift.

Best Day Of My Life by American Authors

Indie Rock – Full Band Background – Masculine/Feminine Voice
The singer celebrates pure joy and excitement, believing this will be the best day of their life. They reflect on chasing dreams and embracing new experiences. The song captures freedom, adventure, and optimism.

Only Wanna Be With You by Hootie & The Blowfish

Pop – Full Band Background – Masculine Voice
The song tells a quirky love story between two people from different worlds. Despite their differences, the narrator is committed and wants to stay with their partner. Tensions and misunderstandings arise, but their desire to be together remains strong. The lyrics express unconditional love and acceptance, embracing flaws and challenges.

Woman in a white lace gown embraces a man in a dark blue suit before a sunset lit sky with a backdrop of a golf course and pine trees.

The Power of Love by Huey Lewis & The News

Rock – Full Band Background – Masculine Voice
Love is a powerful force that can evoke many emotions and change lives in unexpected ways. The song emphasizes that love doesn’t need wealth, fame, or possessions. It’s about a deep, unpredictable connection. Despite its challenges, love can save and change lives. Love is a force that drives the world forward. It’s both strong and vulnerable. Love brings out the best in people and makes the impossible possible.

Gimme All Your Lovin’ by ZZ Top

Rock – Full Band Background – Masculine Voice
The singer craves love, affection, and connection. They desire an intense, passionate experience with their partner. Repeatedly, they ask for love, hugs, and kisses. There’s an energetic, demanding quality, emphasizing reciprocal love and passion.

Man in a dark suit and woman in a white lace dress hold hands and touch foreheads with a smile while standing on a grassy lawn.
Photo courtesy of Anastasia Cherie Photography
Young couple in wedding attire just about to kiss with lake in background.

Danger Zone by Kenny Loggins

Rock – Full Band Background – Masculine Voice
For all my Mavericks and Gooses (Geese?), this song is perfect now that you’ve secured your wingman/woman. It describes the thrill of living on the edge, with imagery of high-speed adventure and risk. The singer embraces this wild ride, diving into the unknown. They emphasize going all in to experience life fully.

Renegades by X Ambassadors

Pop – Full Band Background – Masculine Voice
The song celebrates rebellion, freedom, and living without constraints. Two people embrace life as “renegades,” defying norms. With youthful energy, it honors pioneers and outlaws who challenge the status quo. It calls to break free, make bold moves, and live unapologetically. The song embraces the adventure of living on the edge.

Forest wedding reception tent with wooden farm tables and cross back chairs surrounding a wood door floor where the bride and groom are dancing.

Shut Up and Dance by WALK THE MOON

Alternative/Indie – Full Band Background – Masculine Voices 
The song tells the story of an electrifying connection on the dance floor. Two people are drawn together by attraction. They let go and lose themselves in the moment. With carefree attitudes, they share an unforgettable night. Bound by chemistry, music, and desire, they live in the moment.


Other Signature Wedding Songs

Wedding Songs for Walking Down the Aisle
Wedding First Dance & Reception Songs


Conclusion

Again, here is the link to these songs on Spotify: 2025 Wedding Recessional Songs (After I Do).

I hope there is something you were able to take away from this selection of 2025 Wedding Songs. Remember to Pin this post for when you are ready for next steps.

Couple embracing in the forest, foreheads touching, with overlay text reading "wedding songs walking back after I do".
Two photos of couples walking back down the aisle after their wedding ceremony, with overlay text reading "wedding songs walking back after I do".
Four photos of couples walking back down the aisle after their wedding ceremony, with overlay text reading "wedding songs walking back after I do".
Couple kissing while walking down the aisle in wedding attire, with overlay text reading "wedding songs walking back after I do".

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Rust colored text reading "xoxo Jenni" with light Tiffany blue background.

Filed Under: Wedding Advice, Wedding Design & Planning Tagged With: diy wedding, wedding advice, wedding ceremony, wedding music, wedding playlist, wedding songs

Previous Post: « 2025 Top Wedding Songs for Walking Down the Aisle
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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Heidi

    March 17, 2025 at 6:23 pm

    Love this list. I tried to pick a favorite, but there are so many cool selections! I love Natalie Cole, Frank Sinatra, and Midsummer Nights Dream, but lots of others sound great too! Like Stevie Wonder!

    Reply
  2. Jessica Eve

    March 20, 2025 at 2:42 pm

    I’m sending this to my cousin who is getting married soon! What a beautiful post.

    Reply
    • Haley

      March 21, 2025 at 5:59 pm

      So helpful to have a list of such great ideas!! I like seeing what each person chooses for their wedding!

      Reply
  3. Sarah

    March 20, 2025 at 3:34 pm

    I wish I’d had this list when I got married. I forgot about it and had to pick something at the very last minute the morning of. It was not well thought out and not a great pick. 😂

    Reply
  4. Trina

    March 23, 2025 at 8:32 pm

    So helpful having a list of wedding songs to walk back after “I do!” Saves a lot of time instead of listening to each one. This is perfect for anyone planning their wedding!

    Reply
  5. Alisha Mosier

    May 5, 2025 at 10:39 pm

    I swear you make it easy to plan every wedding detail. I could have used this when I got married in 2015! Love your articles!

    Reply

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Today is an exciting day!  So glad you found our blog.  I’m Jenni, wife and mama, events professional and lover of all things wedding.  Follow along for stories on real weddings, event tips, diy projects, and more!  Read more about me here.

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