Your Dream Wedding Playlist on a Budget: The Ultimate Guide to Songs that Set the Mood & Get the Party Started
Planning your wedding is all about creating moments that reflect who you are as a couple, and what better way to set the mood than with the perfect playlist? Music is an essential part of any wedding, from the moment you walk down the aisle to the last song of the night, and best of all—it doesn’t have to break the bank.
With the help of The Affordable Wedding, we’ve put together a list of must-have songs for your ceremony, first dance, and reception, plus tips on how you can create your own personalized wedding playlist without spending a fortune.
Why Choose Your Own Wedding Playlist?
When you choose your own songs, you get to set the vibe for your special day and make it completely unique. Plus, creating a playlist lets you incorporate personal touches, like your favorite songs as a couple, music that reflects your culture, or hits from a time that’s meaningful to you both.
Thanks to services like Spotify or YouTube, it's easier than ever to curate the soundtrack to your wedding, and with some thoughtful planning, you’ll have a playlist that not only matches your vision but also stays within your budget!
1. Walking Down the Aisle: Songs that Will Make the Moment Magical
The moment you walk down the aisle is something you’ll remember forever, and your song choice will set the tone. Whether you’re looking for something emotional, classic, or a bit modern, we’ve gathered some great options for you:
Modern Choices:
“A Thousand Years” – Christina Perri: A timeless favorite that’s perfect for a dreamy walk.
“Perfect” – Ed Sheeran: Romantic and personal, it’s a great option for today’s couple.
“Marry Me” – Train: A sweet, modern song that says it all.
“You Are the Reason” – Calum Scott: An emotional and powerful choice for the aisle.
Classic Touches:
“Canon in D” – Johann Pachelbel: A classic piece for a sophisticated vibe.
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole: Sweet, dreamy, and a bit whimsical.
“Ave Maria” – Franz Schubert: A traditional piece that gives your ceremony a touch of grandeur.
2. First Dance: Songs That’ll Make You Want to Hold Each Other Close
Your first dance is one of the most intimate moments of the day. Here are some popular, modern songs that will make this moment extra special:
Romantic First Dance Songs:
“All of Me” – John Legend: One of the most popular first dance songs, and for good reason—its heartfelt lyrics are perfect for a couple’s first dance.
“You Are the Best Thing” – Ray LaMontagne: Soulful and sweet, this track gives off happy vibes that are perfect for the occasion.
“At Last” – Etta James: A classic choice that has stood the test of time.
“I Won’t Give Up” – Jason Mraz: A beautiful, modern love song with lyrics that speak to commitment.
Something with a Little Beat:
“Lover” – Taylor Swift: For those who want a more upbeat, yet still romantic choice.
“How Long Will I Love You” – Ellie Goulding: Simple, yet emotional and timeless.
3. Get the Party Started: Music to Keep the Dance Floor Busy
The reception is where the fun really begins, so it’s important to have a playlist that gets people moving. Here are some of our top picks for your wedding party playlist:
Dance Floor Hits:
“Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars: A modern classic that will have everyone dancing.
“Shut Up and Dance” – Walk the Moon: Perfect for getting the whole group on their feet.
“Can’t Stop the Feeling!” – Justin Timberlake: Feel-good energy that’ll get people moving.
“Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey: A classic that’s always a crowd favorite.
For a Little Latin Spice:
“Despacito” – Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee: It’s a party in a song, and a great way to get everyone dancing.
“Bailando” – Enrique Iglesias: A fun, Latin anthem that’s perfect for getting the reception going.
“Vivir Mi Vida” – Marc Anthony: A high-energy track that’ll lift everyone’s spirits.
For a Chill Vibe:
“Sugar” – Maroon 5: A sweet, smooth hit that’s perfect for a laid-back reception.
“Happy” – Pharrell Williams: The name says it all—this track will bring smiles to your guests’ faces.
Bonus Tip: How to Build Your Playlist on a Budget
Building your wedding playlist can be a cost-effective way to customize your big day. Here are some tips to keep things within budget:
Use Free Platforms: Platforms like Spotify and YouTube let you create playlists for free, and you can access a massive catalog of music. Consider creating a “Wedding Playlist” on Spotify that you can share with your guests.
Mix Old and New: Incorporate some classic tunes along with modern hits. This not only adds variety but can make your playlist timeless and inclusive of all your guests' tastes.
Get Creative with Transitions: Consider mixing instrumental versions of songs for the ceremony (like instrumental “Canon in D”) and then switching to lyrical versions for your reception.
Your Wedding Playlist Inspiration
If you’re looking for some inspiration to get started, we’ve curated a wedding playlist on Spotify that includes all of our top song suggestions. This playlist will help you set the mood from the ceremony to the reception—so you can start planning your perfect wedding soundtrack today!
🎶 Listen to our curated wedding playlist on Spotify now!
The Affordable Wedding: Your One-Stop Shop for Wedding Savings
At The Affordable Wedding, we know that wedding planning can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be! By using our platform, you can find budget-friendly vendors and tips for saving on everything from your cake to your decor. And by creating your own wedding playlist, you’re already making an important step in keeping your wedding affordable without sacrificing quality or the fun!
Start planning today with The Affordable Wedding and get your wedding playlist ready. We’re here to help you have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank.
