Who Walks First? Flower Girls And Bridesmaids' Order Explained

The order of a wedding processional is flexible and can be customised according to the couple's preferences. While the bridesmaids typically walk down the aisle before the maid or matron of honour, the placement of the flower girls in the procession is less set in stone. In traditional Christian and Jewish wedding processionals, the flower girls precede the bride, walking down the aisle after the bridesmaids. However, some couples opt to have the flower girls walk before the bridesmaids or even open the processional. Ultimately, the couple can decide the order that best suits their vision for the ceremony.

The flower girl traditionally walks down the aisle right before the bride

In modern times, the flower girl is usually between three and eight years old, though younger children can be included if they are confident enough to walk down the aisle. The flower girl's role is to scatter petals, though this is not obligatory, and she can instead carry balloons, pinwheels, or bubbles. The flower girl's dress is usually similar to the bride's gown, though it may also mirror the bridesmaids' outfits.

While this is the traditional order, it is not set in stone, and the wedding party can be arranged in any way the couple chooses. Some brides opt to have their maid of honour walk right before them, or to have the flower girl walk with the bridesmaids or ring bearer to prevent shyness or stage fright.

The bridesmaids can walk out in any order the couple chooses

For example, if the couple wants to include children in their wedding party, they may opt for having the young ones walk down the aisle first, followed by the bridesmaids and groomsmen. This can be a practical choice, especially if the children are shy or tend to be fussy, as they can be accompanied by their parents or a dedicated bridesmaid or groomsman. This way, the children have some company and support while walking down the aisle.

On the other hand, some couples prefer to have the bridesmaids and groomsmen walk down the aisle first, followed by the flower girls and ring bearers. This is a more traditional approach, as it allows the children to precede the bride and groom, symbolically ushering them into the ceremony.

Ultimately, the decision of who walks out when is entirely up to the couple. They can choose to prioritise practicality, symbolism, or any other factor that is important to them. The wedding is their special day, and they have the freedom to arrange the processional in a way that aligns with their vision and preferences.

The flower girl's petals are meant to bring good fertility to the bride

The flower girl is a centuries-old wedding tradition that has evolved over time. In ancient Rome, the flower girl would bring a basket of wheat and plants to the newlyweds as a symbol of fertility. The petals scattered by the flower girl represent new beginnings and growth, and the flower girl's innocence and virginity symbolise the bride's transformation from girl to wife.

The flower girl, usually the youngest member of the bridal party, walks down the aisle just before the bride, scattering petals as she goes. The tradition of the flower girl walking in front of the bride is also thought to protect the bride from harm on her wedding day. The flower girl's innocent and angelic appearance melts hearts and brings light and happiness to the celebration.

The flower girl's role is largely symbolic, and while it may not seem like a significant role in the grand scheme of the wedding, she is of utmost importance to the bride.

The flower girl doesn't have to throw petals, she can carry balloons or bubbles instead

The flower girl is a special part of every wedding, usually walking down the aisle before the bride to pave the way. Traditionally, flower girls toss flowers from their baskets as they walk, but there are many alternatives to this.

If your venue doesn't allow flower petals, or you're looking for something a little different, your flower girl doesn't have to throw petals. She can carry balloons or bubbles instead for a fun and unique twist. Balloons can be customised to match your wedding colours or theme, and bubbles are a great alternative for an outdoor ceremony.

If you're looking for more creative ideas, you could have your flower girl carry a single stem of a similar flower to the bridal bouquet, or hand out single flowers to guests as she walks down the aisle. A flower wand, pomander flower ball, or metallic confetti are also great alternatives to petals.

For a romantic and classic touch, parasols are a perfect choice, especially for summer weddings. Signs are another popular option, with cute and customizable messages like "Here Comes the Bride" or "Just Wait Until You See Her".

Whatever you choose, remember that there is no set order for your wedding procession, so feel free to get creative and make it your own!

The flower girl can be any young female relative or friend

The role of flower girl is a long-standing tradition, dating back to ancient Rome, where young girls would carry wheat and herbs for the bride and groom. In the Elizabethan era, the flower girl was seen as a symbol of hope and innocence, representing the bride's transformation from child to adult.

Today, the flower girl is usually a young female relative or friend of the couple, such as a niece, cousin, or a daughter of a close friend. She is typically between the ages of three and eight, though younger children can be included if they are able to walk down the aisle.

The flower girl usually walks down the aisle after the wedding party and just before the bride, though there is no set rule for this. Some couples choose to have the flower girl walk with the bridesmaids or with her mother if she is shy or nervous. The flower girl's main role is to charm the guests and set a cute and playful tone for the bride's entrance.

Flower girls are not required to throw flowers; they can carry balloons, pinwheels, or bubbles, or even escort a pet down the aisle. The flower girl's dress is usually similar to the bride's gown or the bridesmaids' dresses. While the parents of the flower girl typically pay for her outfit, the couple may offer to cover the cost if it is expensive.

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