If there is one song that defines the folk-era wedding ceremony, it is Paul Stookey’s “Wedding Song (There Is Love).” As the “Paul” in the legendary trio Peter, Paul and Mary, Stookey didn’t initially write this song for the charts—he wrote it as a gift. It has since become a timeless anthem for couples who want to emphasize the spiritual and philosophical nature of their union.

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As a wedding DJ, I’ve seen this song move generations of families. It’s one of those rare tracks that feels just as at home in a traditional church as it does at an outdoor, grassroots-style celebration.

The Gift of a Lifetime

The song’s history is as beautiful as its melody. When Stookey’s bandmate, Peter Yarrow, married Beth McCarthy in 1969, Paul wrote and performed this song for their ceremony. It wasn’t officially recorded until 1971 for his solo album Paul and…, but its impact was immediate. It peaked at #24 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached #3 on the Easy Listening chart, proving that its message resonated far beyond that first wedding day.

Key Lyrics to Consider

The song asks the profound questions that sit at the heart of any marriage:

“Well then, what’s to be the reason for becoming man and wife? Is it love that brings you here, or love that brings you life?”
“For if loving is the answer, then who’s the giving for?”

These lines make it a popular choice for Unity Candle ceremonies or as a thoughtful Processional.

Wedding Song (There Is Love)

Well, when Peter Yarrow married Beth McCarthy in 1969, Paul Stookey wrote and performed a song as a gift for their wedding titled “Wedding Song (There Is Love)” (also known as “Wedding Song” and “The Wedding Song”).

Well then what’s to be the reason for becoming man and wife
Is it love that brings you here, or love that brings you life
For if loving is the answer then who’s the giving for

“Wedding Song (There Is Love)” was later recorded in 1971 and put on his album Paul and. The song peaked at #24 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached #3 on the Easy Listening chart.

Famous Covers of “Wedding Song”

While Paul Stookey’s original is the most recognized, several other artists have brought their own flavor to this classic: Petula Clark, 1972, #65 Billboard Hot 100, Captain & Tennille, 1976, Featured on Song of Joy, and Mary MacGregor, 1978, #23 Easy Listening Chart.

In 1970 the trio decided to pursue solo careers. Then, they rejoined in 1981 and performed together until 2009 when Travers passed away from Leukemia.

Expert DJ Tips for Folk Classics

The Peter, Paul and Mary Connection: If you’re a fan of the trio, don’t forget their other hits for your cocktail hour or dinner. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” (written by John Denver) and “Puff (The Magic Dragon)” are great for a nostalgic, sing-along vibe.
Ceremony Timing: Because the song is quite philosophical, it works best during a quiet moment of the ceremony where guests can truly listen to the lyrics, such as a Unity Ceremony or a Prelude.
The “Spirit” of the Song: Stookey has often said that he felt the song was “divinely inspired” and even assigned the copyright to a public charity (the Music for Little People foundation). Playing it adds a layer of genuine altruism and spirituality to your day.