36 Wedding Reception Grand Entrance Song Ideas from the Experts

It’s one of your first big moments as a married couple—your “grand entrance” into the reception (not to be confused with the wedding ceremony processional or bride entrance, when you and your spouse-to-be walk down the aisle). The song you pick for this important moment is crucial—it will set the tone for your entire celebration. We asked DJs from around the country to share their suggestions for grand entrance songs, both for the newlyweds and their wedding party. Their best advice? Pick something personal! “Choose a song that has an ‘anthem’ feel for your wedding day, something that gives off the energy you are comfortable with while providing some creativity,” says Matt Brys of Extreme Productions Entertainment in Sacramento, California. Check out some fun wedding entrance song ideas from the DJs and our editors. 

“Good to Be Alive (Hallelujah)” by Andy Grammer

Looking for an upbeat wedding entrance song that will put your guests in a joyful mood? This pop hit is a great choice. “This song’s positive message makes you happy just listening to it and what’s a happier time than a wedding?" says Nina Russo of All Events DJs in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina.

“Dynamite” by Taio Cruz

Taio Cruz's hit is definitely one of the best wedding entrance songs. “The song starts out slow, so I can talk over the music," says Jared Redman of On-Site Productions in Birmingham, Alabama. "Right about the time I've introduced the couple, the song hits the chorus. It is a really fun and energetic song with a good beat that really sets the mood for the reception!”

"Apesh*t" by The Carters

Couple Beyonce and Jay-Z come together to create this celebration of Black Love. "It's extremely upbeat, it grabs everybody’s attention and really sets the tone for the rest of the reception," says Stefan Henry of DreSteff Events in Montclair, New Jersey.

"Confident" by Demi Lovato (Instrumental Version)

Your crew is looking and feeling amazing—so what's a better bridal party reception entrance song than this banger by Demi Lovato? "“It’s definitely a fire starter!” says Nate Nelson of LeForce Entertainment in Dallas, Texas.

"Bring Em Out" by T.I. feat. Swizz Beatz

"This song is an absolute classic of an entrance song that's been widely used by many wedding DJs and it never gets old," says Stefan Henry. "It’s very upbeat and once my couples enter, I always invite their guests for a quick dance session with newlyweds before their first dance song begins—it's a great way to start the reception. "

Favorite Movie Themes

If you're struggling to find the right wedding entrance song, look no further than your favorite films! “Movie songs give some insight into a couple’s personality and help connect family and friends more emotionally than a ‘normal’ pop song," says Paul Helms of DJPauly Entertainment in Salt Lake City, Utah. "Some of the more memorable ones are ‘Hooked On A Feeling’ by Blue Swede from Guardians Of The Galaxy, ‘Jump In The Line’ by Harry Belafonte from Beetlejuice or ‘The Imperial March’ from Star Wars. That last one always cracks the guests up, especially if the couple is really into Star Wars.”

"S.O.B." by Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats (Instrumental Version)

If you're searching for a unique rock wedding entrance song, give this tune a listen! “It's a great song that's not only got rhythm that the guests of honor (wedding party) can move to, but also has a very classic James Brown and the Famous Flames feel," says Jake Feldman of BCP Weddings in Grimes, Iowa. "It's great for those with an alternative appeal for music."

"24K Magic" by Bruno Mars

"The intro is old school cool and flamboyantly funky—and then it goes into that classic R&B vibe," says Blair Saldana of Nashville Party Authority in Nashville, Tennessee. "It's a perfect, celebratory buildup for the announcement and simultaneous entrance of the stars of the show.

"Lights (Nitti Gritti Remix)" by San Holo vs. Kanye West 

"My new go-to song for Introductions is something electric with a big drop," says Nate Nelson. "The intros set the tone for the evening, and I want all the guests to know that tonight is going to be an epic party!"

“You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates

“Have your DJ invite everyone on the dance floor to join the grand entrance and dance with you," suggests Steve Lebo of Party-Time Productions DJs in Monroeville, Pennsylvania. "This is a great song to make that happen!”

“Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon 

“This song sets the tempo for an upbeat evening," says Rich Leggitt of Black Tie Events in Norcross, Georgia. "For couples looking for a more formal and classic reception, pick a song by Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, or Michael Buble for a different feel.”

“Time of our Lives” by Pitbull and Ne-Yo

“This track is a 'feel good' party anthem that keeps the introductions moving!" says Jason Martinez of DJ Jason & Associates in Atlanta, Georgia. "It's high energy EDM/Dance sound helps to create a fresh and contemporary atmosphere all while reiterating ‘Give me the time of my life’ which is the whole point of a wedding reception."

“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars

Who doesn't love this wedding party entrance song? "It has such a good beat and some great breaks in the song so the DJ can make the entrance announcements," says Shannon Edds of Extreme Southern Productions in Bedford, Kentucky.

“No Doubt About It” by the cast of Empire 

Don Fowler of Dance Masters Entertainment in Baltimore, Maryland loves this pick because of its "pure energy and beat." He adds: "The two lines ‘If you came here to party/And ain’t no doubt about it’ make it a great high-energy way to start the night!”

"Marry You" by Bruno Mars

"Not only is this a popular wedding entrance song, but It has a great buildup; the tempo is perfect," says Stefan Henry. "It gives a warm happy feeling that 'we are at a wedding'. Today we come together to celebrate love freely with the newlyweds." And of course, all of your guests will sing along to the line: "Just say I do..."

A few editors' picks: 

"Party People," by Florida Georgia Line

Looking for a country wedding party entrance song? This may be the perfect choice. 

"Crazy in Love" by Beyonce and Jay-Z

The ultimate power couple returns for this ultimate favorite wedding entrance song.

"Can't Stop the Feeling" by Justin Timberlake

Want to start your party on an upbeat note? This pop classic will have all your guests tapping their feet and singing along.

"I Gotta Feeling" by The Black-Eyed Peas

​What could be a more perfect wedding entrance song than this one? "Fill up my cup, mazel tov!" and get the party started!

"Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor

You don't have to be a Rocky fan to feel totally pumped up after listening to this song. It's sure to give the energy in the room a major boost!  

"This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole

Not every wedding entrance song has to be an ultra fast-paced tune—sometimes something a bit more romantic gets guests in the mood to celebrate. This Natalie Cole song, made extra-famous in The Parent Trap is a perfect example. 

"One More Time" by Daft Punk

This electronic favorite is one of the best wedding party entrance songs—and particularly ideal for couples who had to postpone their celebration due to COVID. 

"We Found Love" by Rihanna feat. Calvin Harris

Maybe you didn't "find love in a hopeless place" but this Rihanna and Calvin Harris bop is a perfect wedding entrance song for your reception! 

"Love Story" by Taylor Swift 

Swifties, unite! If Taylor is a must-play at your wedding reception, this sweet love song is an ideal choice as you and your new spouse step into the party. 

"Party Rock Anthem" by LMFAO feat. Lauren Bennett and GoonRock

Your guests will definitely smile and start to boogie when they hear this wedding grand entrance song.  

"Best Day of My Life" by American Authors 

You and your new spouse will feel on top of the world when this song starts to play. 

"I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)" by Whitney Houston

Want to give your wedding reception a bit of '80s flair? This Whitney Houston song worked for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and it's sure to be a hit at your event, as well! 

"Celebration" by Kool & The Gang

Your wedding entrance is a perfect opportunity for a throwback favorite, like this one. 

​"Yeah!" by Usher feat. Lil Jon and Ludacris

​Don't be surprised if your guests rush onto the dance floor when this wedding entrance song starts to play.

"Raise Your Glass" by P!nk 

Turns out that P!nk has several hits that make perfect wedding entrance songs. This one will help your crew loosen up and get ready to party. 

"Get the Party Started" by P!nk

What could be a better party-starter than this P!nk classic?

"Beautiful Day" by U2

Rain or shine, your wedding day is sure to be a beautiful one. We love the dreamy, romantic feel of this wedding reception entrance song. 

"Thunderstruck" by AC/DC

Going for a rock vibe for your reception? What could be more perfect as a grand entrance song than a little AC/DC? Just don't be surprised in everyone in the crowd starts playing air guitar! 

​"Sky Full of Stars" by Coldplay

This may seem like a bit of an offbeat choice for a wedding reception, but its dreamy vibe will help create a magical grand entrance for the newlyweds. 

"Higher Love" by Kygo and Whitney Houston

A wedding reception is all about celebrating love and joy, and this song definitely sets the tone for a special night. 

​"Signed, Sealed, Delivered" by Stevie Wonder

Add a little Motown to your playlist by playing this Stevie Wonder classic during your grand entrance.