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

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

Reception (1–10)

First, set the mood for the reception.

The music played at the beginning of the reception is the welcoming music. It’s the songs that play until the bride and groom make their entrance. The key is to choose them with the feeling of welcoming your guests. This moment also plays an important role in setting the tone for the reception to come, so it’s best to pick songs that match and unify the overall image of the event. Many venues allow about 30 minutes from guest arrival to the couple’s entrance, so preparing around 10 songs will give you peace of mind!

Happiness ForeverNEW!MISIA

MISIA – Happiness Forever (Official Music Video)
Happiness ForeverNEW!MISIA

This work resonates with warm words celebrating two people who vow to spend their lives together.

It’s a single released in September 2013 by the singer MISIA, known for her overwhelming vocal prowess.

It became widely known after being featured as the commercial song for the wedding magazine Zexy.

The lyrics, written from the bride’s perspective, and the gospel-style chorus that seems to echo throughout a church will fill the venue with a blissful atmosphere.

In the music video, Noriyuki Higashiyama and Kazué Fukiishi play the bride and groom, portraying the dramatic scenes of a wedding reception.

Why not choose it as background music for the entrance or exit at your wedding, or for your profile video?

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CanonJohann Pachelbel

Pachelbel – Canon In D Major. Best version.
CanonJohann Pachelbel

A wedding classic: Pachelbel’s Canon.

It’s a versatile piece that suits many moments and is perfect for welcoming guests! It greets them with elegance.

Its gentle melody won’t interrupt conversations and sets the expectation for a wonderful start to the reception.

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Just The Way You AreBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – Just The Way You Are (Official Music Video)
Just The Way You AreBruno Mars

This is a top-notch pop song and a beloved classic by Bruno Mars.

It’s incredibly popular at weddings, and it’s hard to believe it was released in 2010.

It was issued as the lead single from his debut album, Doo-Wops & Hooligans.

The song became a worldwide hit, even winning the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.

Its positive and gentle message is truly wonderful.

This sweet number brightens various moments of a wedding, relaxes the atmosphere of the venue, and is perfect for welcoming guests.

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Married LifeMichael Giacchino

It’s a masterpiece with an inspiring melody and deep emotional resonance.

Used in the opening montage of the film “Up,” it beautifully portrays the joys and sorrows of the protagonist Carl’s life.

Composed by Michael Giacchino in 2009, it won the Academy Award for Best Original Score.

The music is gentle yet vibrant, offering a soothing presence.

It doesn’t force emotions; instead, it has a warmth that stays close to the listener’s heart.

It’s perfect for a wedding welcome scene, helping guests relax while lifting their spirits.

A wonderful piece that will resonate with the hearts of the couple and all their guests.

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SummerHisaishi Joe

A famous piece by Joe Hisaishi that paints a summer landscape.

Its beautiful melody, woven from freshness and nostalgia, resonates deep in the heart.

Released in May 1999 as part of the soundtrack for the film “Kikujiro,” it has since been used in commercials and many other contexts.

The delicate piano timbre and phrases reminiscent of a school chime are striking, gently stirring listeners’ memories.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you feel the arrival of summer or when you look back on memories with someone special.

It’s also popular for wedding reception arrivals, warmly embracing the hearts of guests.

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Butterfly EffectSEKAI NO OWARI

SEKAI NO OWARI’s new challenge paints a fantastical world where butterflies dance.

Saori’s piano and gentle vocals weave a beautiful melody that resonates with the heart.

Released in June 2023, the song drew attention as the opening theme for the Fuji TV drama “My Marriage Proposal” (Watashi no Oyome-kun).

The lyrics are imbued with themes of coincidence, fate, and the intuition and romance that can shape the course of life.

Played as background music during a wedding reception’s welcome scene, it can relax guests and make the waiting time for the bride and groom more enjoyable.

It is a track filled with hope for a happy future.

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Lovin’ YouMinnie Riperton

Minnie Riperton – Lovin’ You (Official Video)
Lovin' YouMinnie Riperton

It’s a song performed by Minnie Riperton, who was said to have a five-octave vocal range, and one that many people will recognize.

With its cute vocals and gentle melody, it evokes a refreshing morning in a forest.

It’s recommended for welcoming guests at weddings held in lush, green settings.

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