[Wedding Ceremony & Reception BGM] Recommended Songs and How to Choose Them by Scene!

Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.

There are countless decisions that brides and grooms need to make as they prepare for their wedding and reception.

Background music is one of them!

With so much to get ready, many couples may find they just can’t get around to choosing songs.

However, music plays a crucial role in the reception, and the atmosphere of the venue can change dramatically depending on the tracks you choose!

In this article, we’ll highlight recommended songs—focusing on tracks that are actually popular at receptions—and share tips for selecting music for each scene.

We’ve arranged everything in the order of a typical reception schedule, so please read along while imagining the flow of the day.

Exit (1–10)

Ever Ever AfterCarrie Underwood

Enchanted – Carrie Underwood – Ever Ever After

Ever Ever AfterCarrie Underwood

This song celebrates the importance of believing in fairytale-like happy endings.

Featuring Carrie Underwood’s powerful vocals, it was written for the 2007 film Enchanted.

Created by the illustrious duo Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz, the track deftly weaves pop and rock elements into a country-pop ballad.

Its lyrics, which champion staying true to yourself and chasing your dreams, seem perfect for gently encouraging newlyweds as they take their first step into a new life together.

Used as a recessional song at a wedding, it’s sure to fill the entire venue with happiness.

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Kiss MeSixpence None The Richer

Sixpence None The Richer – Kiss Me (Official Music Video)

Kiss MeSixpence None The Richer

The song released in 1997 by Sixpence None the Richer, a Christian band from Texas in the United States, is a classic that seems to enjoy periodic revival hits in Japan as well, including in TV commercials.

Reissued as a single in 1999, it became a worldwide smash hit, including in Japan—a nostalgic memory for those who remember that time.

Simple yet perfectly crafted with no excess, it’s a flawless pop song, and Leigh Nash’s cute vocals warm the heart of anyone who listens.

True to its title, the lyrics are a charming love song, making it a lovely choice for a wedding recessional.

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Until I Found YouStephen Sanchez

Stephen Sanchez – Until I Found You (Official Video)

Until I Found YouStephen Sanchez

Released in September 2021, the smash hit “Until I Found You” became a major breakthrough in the career of Stephen Sanchez, a young singer-songwriter born in 2002.

Influenced by the old-school music style of the 1950s, the track features smooth melodies and emotional lyrics, with Sanchez’s nostalgic vocals enhancing its charm.

Used for a wedding recessional, it can help create a warm atmosphere that celebrates the couple’s fresh start.

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Send-off of guests (11–20)

So that you can feel a happy atmosphere right up to the end

After the bride and groom make their exit, the guests will leave as well, and the music played during that time is the send-off song. Choose tracks that keep the wonderful atmosphere of the reception going right up to the very end. Recommended are songs with a sense of closure. However, instead of slow, emotional pieces, opt for something a bit brighter that lets you send guests off with energy. It’s perfect if the guests leave feeling, “That was truly a great wedding today.”

Seeing off guests (1–10)

rainbow-coloredayaka

Nijiiro – Ayaka (Full)

rainbow-coloredayaka

This song was written as the theme for the NHK morning drama series Hanako to Anne.

Its lyrics, filled with anticipation for a new chapter in life, are a key reason for its popularity, and it’s often used during farewells.

Another reason is that it’s a song everyone knows.

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Ever Ever AfterCarrie Underwood

Enchanted – Carrie Underwood – Ever Ever After

Ever Ever AfterCarrie Underwood

The song written for the Disney film Enchanted, combined with Carrie Underwood’s powerful vocals, has become a wonderful track brimming with dreams and hope.

Featured on the soundtrack of the movie released in 2007, it celebrates the joy of finding a fairy-tale “happily ever after” in the real world.

Its up-tempo melody and positive lyrics seem perfect for gently encouraging couples embarking on a new chapter in life.

Among Carrie’s brilliant career, it stands out as a memorable track with a strong pop flavor.

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