25 Best Indie Wedding Songs – From Ceremony to Dancefloor
Indie wedding songs have become a go-to choice for couples who want music that feels personal and modern without relying on traditional wedding staples.
The genre covers a wide range of styles, from stripped-back acoustic tracks to big indie anthems, which makes it easy to build a soundtrack that flows naturally from ceremony to late-night dancing.
Whether you are searching for indie first dance songs, relaxed ceremony music or upbeat reception tracks, this guide brings together the best options across the day. We have included classic favourites alongside a few recent indie releases.
Many of these songs also work especially well when performed by a live indie wedding band, where the energy and dynamics can lift the atmosphere and make key moments feel even more memorable.
Indie Wedding Ceremony Songs
Choosing the right indie ceremony songs sets the tone for the rest of the day. Most couples look for something calm, emotional and understated for entrances or the signing moment.
1. First Day of My Life – Bright Eyes
This remains one of the most popular indie wedding ceremony songs thanks to its simple arrangement and sincere lyrics. It works particularly well for walking down the aisle or as pre-ceremony music.
2. Such Great Heights – Iron & Wine
A softer, acoustic reinterpretation that feels warm and reflective. Ideal if you want a relaxed atmosphere without anything too formal.
3. Sea of Love – Cat Power
Gentle and timeless. This track suits the signing of the register or the moment just after the ceremony ends.
4. Angels – The xx
Minimal and intimate, with a slow build that creates a calm and focused mood. A good choice for modern ceremonies.
5. Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby – Cigarettes After Sex
Dreamlike and atmospheric. This works well if you want something contemporary but still emotional.
6. Bloom – The Paper Kites
Soft indie folk with a romantic tone. A strong option for ceremony entrances or background music before guests arrive.
Indie First Dance Songs
Indie first dance songs tend to sit somewhere between traditional slow dances and upbeat pop. They often have meaningful lyrics and a tempo that feels natural to move to.
7. Baby I’m Yours – Arctic Monkeys
Short and warm with a vintage feel. This is one of the most requested indie first dance songs because it feels relaxed and affectionate.
8. Real Love Baby – Father John Misty
A laid-back groove and heartfelt lyrics make this a comfortable and natural first dance choice.
9. You & Me Song – The Wannadies
Upbeat and joyful without being too fast. Ideal if you want a first dance that feels light rather than emotional.
10. Grow Old With Me – Tom Odell
Simple piano and a clear romantic message. A modern indie option that works well for couples who want something sincere.
11. Lover, You Should’ve Come Over – Jeff Buckley
A slower, more emotional pick with real depth. This suits couples looking for a more dramatic first dance moment.
12. My Love Mine All Mine – Mitski
A recent indie love song that has quickly become a favourite for weddings. Its simplicity and warmth make it a strong contemporary choice.
Indie Songs for Drinks Reception and Daytime Moments
Daytime music often sits in the background while guests mingle, so the best tracks feel warm, familiar and easy to listen to.
13. Archie, Marry Me – Alvvays
Playful and fitting for the occasion. This works well during drinks or photo sessions.
14. Sweet Disposition – The Temper Trap
Atmospheric and uplifting. A great bridge between the ceremony and the evening party.
15. Fallingforyou – The 1975
Soft and modern, with a relaxed feel that suits quieter moments.
16. Ho Hey – The Lumineers
Familiar and easygoing. This track brings a gentle lift to the room without dominating the atmosphere.
17. Home – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
Warm, communal and positive. A great choice for outdoor receptions or summer weddings.
18. Nothing Matters – The Last Dinner Party
A recent indie release that adds a contemporary touch while still feeling emotional and melodic.
Indie Wedding Party Songs
When the evening begins, couples often want indie tracks that keep the energy up while still fitting the overall style of the day. These are the songs that bring people onto the dancefloor.
19. Mr Brightside – The Killers
An indie wedding classic. Almost guaranteed to get a full-room singalong.
20. I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor – Arctic Monkeys
Fast and instantly recognisable. A reliable way to raise the energy.
21. Dog Days Are Over – Florence + The Machine
Big, joyful and uplifting. Works well mid-set when the party is in full swing.
22. She Moves in Her Own Way – The Kooks
Light and catchy with broad appeal across age groups.
23. Electric Feel – MGMT
Distinctive and danceable. Keeps the vibe fun without feeling too mainstream.
24. Island in the Sun – Weezer
Relaxed and familiar, perfect for keeping the dancefloor full without pushing the tempo too hard.
25. Take Me Out – Franz Ferdinand
A great late-evening track that brings a burst of energy and nostalgia.
Why Indie Wedding Songs Work So Well
Indie music fits naturally into weddings because it feels personal without being overly sentimental. Many tracks focus on storytelling and atmosphere, which makes them ideal for key moments like walking down the aisle or the first dance.
Another advantage is flexibility. Indie songs can be arranged acoustically for ceremonies, played softly during drinks, or performed with full-band energy later in the evening.
For couples who want their wedding to feel relaxed and reflective of their own tastes, indie wedding songs often strike the right balance.
Many couples choose live music for this style because the arrangements translate beautifully on stage. If you’re exploring options, our guide to the best wedding bands in the UK is a useful place to start, with acts that regularly perform indie sets, as well as other genres.
Tips for Choosing Indie Wedding Music
If you are building your playlist, a few simple guidelines can help everything flow smoothly.
Start with the key moments first. Pick your ceremony songs and first dance before thinking about the party. These are the parts of the day guests remember most clearly.
Think about tempo changes. A good wedding playlist gradually builds energy from calm ceremony music to upbeat evening tracks.
Mix familiar songs with personal favourites. Well-known indie hits help bring guests together, while less obvious choices add personality.
Consider live arrangements. Many indie songs translate beautifully to live performance, particularly acoustic versions during the ceremony or drinks reception.
Popular Questions About Indie Wedding Songs
What are the best indie wedding songs for walking down the aisle?
Popular aisle choices include First Day of My Life by Bright Eyes, Sea of Love by Cat Power and Bloom by The Paper Kites. These songs feel calm and emotional without being overly dramatic.
What is a good indie first dance song?
Baby I’m Yours by Arctic Monkeys, Real Love Baby by Father John Misty and Grow Old With Me by Tom Odell are among the most requested indie first dance songs because they are romantic and easy to dance to.
Are indie songs suitable for a wedding reception?
Yes. Indie music works well for receptions because it creates a relaxed atmosphere while still offering recognisable tracks that guests can enjoy.
What are some upbeat indie wedding songs?
Mr Brightside by The Killers, Dog Days Are Over by Florence + The Machine and I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor by Arctic Monkeys are reliable choices for filling the dancefloor.
Can wedding bands play indie music?
Most professional wedding bands perform a wide range of indie songs. Live versions often add more energy and can be tailored to suit different parts of the day.
Final Thoughts
Indie wedding songs offer a flexible and personal soundtrack that works across every stage of your celebration. From understated ceremony music to high-energy party anthems, the genre gives you plenty of options to shape the mood exactly how you want it.
And if you’re still deciding on a direction, take a look at our guides to 90s wedding songs and 80s wedding songs for more inspiration.
