The success of the reception can depend on your choice of bands, especially if you are planning to have dancing. You can have anything from beautiful strolling violins to wild colorful mariachi bands. If you like music, take the time to audition or at least hear or meet the person or persons who will play your songs whether they be traditional, classic, or contemporary pop. The traditional entrance music as the bride begins her walk down the aisle is the bridal chorus from Wagner's Lohengrin. Other popular processionals include Air from the Water Music Suite by Handel, Trumpet's Voluntary in D by Purcell, and Rigandon by Campa.
Recessional music is quicker in tempo and livelier than the processional.
Popular recessionals are the Wedding March from Midsummer Night's Dream by Mendelssohn, Ode to Joy from Symphony No. 9 by Beethoven, and contemporary selections are also become popular to use as a recessional. If you prefer more contemporary sounds, you might consider themes from Love Story and Romeo and Juliet. With such a wide variety of music, it is easy to be confused unless you are knowledgeable in songs and selections. Ask the advice of someone whose business is to make music. They will be only too glad to help you.