Bridesmaids set the tone before the bride appears, and the moment they walk in is one of the most overlooked opportunities to shape the atmosphere of a ceremony. Choosing a dedicated piece of music for your bridal party — separate from the bride’s entrance — brings a touch of theatre, emotion, and intention to the start of your ceremony.
As live wedding musicians, JAM Duo see more and more couples choosing two different songs: one for the bridesmaids and one for the bride. It creates a beautifully layered entrance and gives each part of the processional its own identity.
Why Have a Separate Song for Bridesmaids?
1. It creates a sense of build-up
The ceremony begins the moment the first bridesmaid steps into the aisle. Giving the bridal party their own entrance music creates a gentle rising energy before the bride appears. It feels cinematic, elegant, and thoughtfully planned.
2. It keeps the bride’s moment distinct
When everyone enters to the same song, the effect can feel slightly rushed or blurred. A separate piece means the bride’s entrance lands exactly as it should — as the highlight of the processional.
3. Bridesmaids deserve their moment too
Many bridesmaids have supported the couple through the journey to the wedding day. Giving them their own music can feel like a small but meaningful thank-you.
4. It helps control timing beautifully
With live musicians, the pace can be adjusted to match the number of bridesmaids, their walking speed, and the length of the aisle. When the final bridesmaid reaches their spot, the music can gently resolve — ready for the bride’s song to begin.
5. It elevates the flow of the ceremony
It’s not just about music; it’s about choreography. Two songs turn a simple processional into a refined, emotionally paced sequence that feels intentionally designed.
Popular Songs for Bridesmaids’ Entrances
Here are some of the most requested choices JAM Duo perform for bridal party entrances. All are arranged live for cello and piano, which brings a warm, expressive sound to the moment.
1. A Thousand Years — Christina Perri
Timeless, gentle, and immediately recognisable. Ideal for creating a soft, romantic start.
2. Can’t Help Falling in Love — Elvis Presley / Kina Grannis style
A tender choice with a smooth walking tempo. Works beautifully for small or large bridal parties.
3. Turning Page — Sleeping at Last
Atmospheric and emotional — perfect for a graceful, elegant entrance.
4. Halo — Beyoncé (Instrumental)
Flowing, warm harmonies paired with cello create a rich, cinematic feel.
5. I Get to Love You — Ruelle
A modern favourite that sets an intimate, heartfelt tone before the bride appears.
6. At Last — Etta James (Instrumental)
Classic, soulful and refined — lovely for weddings with a vintage or timeless feel.
7. Only Time — Enya
Soft, ethereal and calming. A steady walking pace suits longer aisles.
8. Bridgerton-style string arrangements
These always feel elegant and refined — ideal for bridesmaids walking in one by one.
Popular choices include:
- Wildest Dreams
- Love Story
- Material Girl (string version)
9. Canon in D — Pachelbel
Still one of the most requested pieces. Many couples now choose it for the bridesmaids and something more personal for the bride.
10. The One — Kodaline (Instrumental)
Warm, contemporary, and deeply emotional.
Bridal Entrance – Mashup of 2 Songs
Below are a few examples of popular songs we have been asked to blend together. The first song is played as your bridesmaids walk in, seamlessly transitioning to a second song as the bride enters. We can blend any song into any other song at any point – All timed to perfection on your wedding day!
There is more inspiration on our listen page
How JAM Duo Make It Seamless
One of the most special things about having live musicians is the ability to blend seamlessly from the bridesmaids’ song into the bride’s entrance. This creates a beautiful continuous musical moment — no gaps, no awkward cuts, no “stopping and starting”.
Jules and Anne-Marie shape the timing so the final chord of the bridesmaids’ piece flows gracefully into the bride’s chosen entrance song, perfectly aligned with her first steps.
It’s a simple touch, but couples often tell us it completely transforms the feel of the ceremony.
Making Your Processional Feel Personal
Whether you prefer classical, modern, film music or something completely unexpected, having two different entrance songs is a wonderful way to add individuality to your ceremony.
JAM Duo can arrange anything you choose — with over 350 recordings on our listen page for inspiration only, and no limits on the songs you can request via your client form.
If you’d like help choosing the perfect pieces for your bridesmaids and your own entrance, we’re always happy to guide you.
