Creating A Wedding Processional: Tips For A Smooth Entrance

The wedding processional is a highly anticipated moment and can be one of the most memorable and emotional parts of the day for the couple and their guests. It marks the start of the ceremony and is the first time guests will see the couple and their wedding party. The processional order is usually dictated by religion or culture, but it can be customised to fit the couple's needs and reflect their personality. The processional traditionally includes the officiant, parents, the groom, the wedding party, the flower girls, the ring bearers, and the bride, who usually makes her debut last.

Choosing who walks down the aisle and when

Deciding who walks down the aisle and when can be a tricky part of wedding planning, but it's also an opportunity to make your wedding unique and meaningful to you. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you choose:

Officiant

The officiant is the person who will lead your wedding ceremony. They can be a religious figure, like a priest or rabbi, or someone you choose to officiate the wedding, such as a close friend or family member. There are a few options for when the officiant should enter:

• Entering at the beginning of the processional and walking down the aisle first.
• Entering at the same time as the groom or partner A to avoid standing alone at the altar for too long.
• Already being positioned at the altar before the processional begins.

Grandparents

Including grandparents in the processional is a lovely way to honour them, but it's not always possible, especially if they are unable to walk down the aisle due to health reasons. Here are some options to consider:

• If your grandparents are healthy enough, they can walk down the aisle together or with another family member, such as a grandchild, uncle, or aunt.
• If one grandparent has passed away, you may want them to walk alone or be accompanied by another family member.
• Grandparents can also be seated before the ceremony if they are unable to walk down the aisle.

Parents of the Couple

It's becoming increasingly common for both parents to walk the couple down the aisle. Here are some things to consider:

• Decide if you want one or both parents to walk you down the aisle.
• If you choose to have only one parent walk you down the aisle, you can have the other parent walk in on their own or with another family member.
• If you have a narrow aisle, you may not have the option of having both parents walk you down. Work with your venue and wedding planner to find a solution.

Groom/Partner A

The groom or partner A is usually at the altar before the wedding party enters, creating a special moment as they watch their partner walk down the aisle. Here are some options for their entrance:

• Walking down the aisle, either alone or with one or both parents.
• Entering from the side of the venue and taking their place at the altar.

Wedding Party

The wedding party can include bridesmaids, groomsmen, and any other roles you choose to include. Here are some tips for their entrance:

• Decide if you want them to enter in pairs, individually, or have groomsmen enter from the side while bridesmaids walk down the aisle alone.
• Consider the layout of the space when deciding on the order. For example, pairs can help navigate tripping hazards, especially if bridesmaids are wearing floor-length dresses or high heels.
• The first pair to enter will stand the farthest from the couple at the altar, so plan the order accordingly.
• If you have a maid of honour or best man, they will typically enter last and stand closest to the couple.

Ring Bearer and Flower Girl

Including children in the processional is adorable, but it can also be unpredictable! Here are some suggestions:

• Decide if you want the ring bearer and flower girl to walk down the aisle together or separately. Walking together may help ensure they make it down the aisle.
• Consider having the parents visible near the altar for the children to walk towards.

Bride/Partner B

Traditionally, the bride or partner B is escorted down the aisle by their father. However, this can be customised to include any special person you choose:

• Decide if you want to walk down the aisle alone, with one parent, or both parents.
• You can also be escorted by another family member, such as an uncle, aunt, grandparent, or sibling.

Remember, there are no rules when it comes to your wedding processional. You can customise it to fit your unique family dynamics and preferences. Work with your wedding planner and day-of coordinator to communicate the order to everyone involved, and be sure to practice at the rehearsal!

Selecting music to accompany the processional

• Consider the mood you want to create and the ambiance of the venue. Choose music that reflects the style and atmosphere you want for your ceremony.
• Select a song that is meaningful to you as a couple. This could be a song that holds special memories for you or simply a song that you both love.
• Think about the length of the processional and the timing of the music. If you have a specific song in mind, consider whether it is long enough to accompany the entire processional or if you need to edit it to fit the timing.
• Discuss with your partner and wedding party about any musical preferences or ideas they may have. It's important to involve them in the decision-making process and ensure that everyone is comfortable with the chosen music.
• Consult with your officiant or wedding planner for input and suggestions. They have likely worked on numerous weddings and can offer valuable advice based on their experience.
• Be creative and feel free to break away from tradition. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to wedding processional music, so don't be afraid to choose something unique and personalised.
• Consider the lyrics and instrumentals of the song. Opt for music that has a meaningful message or melody that resonates with you.
• Take into account any religious or cultural considerations. If you are having a religious ceremony, certain types of music may be more appropriate than others.
• Plan ahead and communicate your music choice to the relevant vendors, such as your DJ, band, or musicians. This will ensure that they have enough time to source the music and rehearse if needed.
• Be mindful of the volume and acoustics of the venue. Choose music that can be clearly heard and enjoyed by all your guests.
• Don't be afraid to mix and match songs. You can select different songs for different parts of the processional, such as one song for the wedding party and another for the bride's entrance.
• Consider the tempo of the music. Upbeat and lively music can create a joyful atmosphere, while slower and more sentimental music can evoke emotions during the processional.

Deciding whether to walk down the aisle alone or with a partner

Walking Down the Aisle Alone

Walking down the aisle alone can be a powerful statement of independence, particularly for those who feel uncomfortable with the idea of being "given away" or presented as property to be exchanged from one man to another. This option may be especially meaningful for those who identify as independent, strong, and autonomous. It can also be a way to avoid choosing between parents, such as in cases of divorce or complicated family dynamics. Walking down the aisle alone can also be a practical choice if the aisle is very small and there isn't enough room for multiple people to walk side by side.

However, walking down the aisle solo may be a daunting experience for some, especially those who feel they might benefit from having someone to squeeze their hand or steady their nerves.

Walking Down the Aisle with a Partner

Walking down the aisle with a partner can be a way to symbolically start your life together and can be a calming experience for nervous couples. It can also be a way to include your partner in the procession if you don't have a wedding party. This option may be particularly appealing to those who view the act of being escorted as a sign of support and companionship rather than ownership.

However, walking down the aisle with a partner means you'll miss out on the classic shot and moment of the groom seeing the bride walk down the aisle for the first time.

Other Options

There are many ways to adapt the processional to your preferences and family dynamics. Here are some alternative options:

• Walk down the aisle with both parents: This option can be a way to honour and include both parents, especially if you have a good relationship with them and want to avoid choosing between them.
• Walk down the aisle with a friend or another family member: This can be a good option if you want someone to support you and don't want to walk alone but don't want to be escorted by a parent.
• Walk down the aisle with children: For those with kids, having them walk you down the aisle can be a meaningful way to include them in the ceremony.
• Walk down the aisle with a pet: Your furry friend can be a fun and unique way to accompany you down the aisle!
• Meet your partner halfway: You can start by walking down the aisle alone and have your partner meet you halfway, so you finish the walk together. This option gives you the best of both worlds!
• Walk down the aisle with your partner and have your parents walk down the aisle first: This option allows you to walk with your partner while still including your parents in the procession.
• Skip the walk down the aisle entirely: You can choose to enter the ceremony space from the side or backdoor once the ceremony begins, or even mingle with guests and then make your way to the front once the ceremony starts.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to walk down the aisle alone or with a partner is a personal one, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Do what feels right for you and your partner, and don't be afraid to adapt the processional to your unique circumstances and preferences!

Determining the order of the wedding party

The wedding processional order is a cherished tradition that celebrates family members and the bridal party. While specific customs may differ by religion, the ritual remains a significant part of the ceremony across various cultures. The processional order for a traditional wedding is as follows:

The Mother of the Bride

The mother of the bride is the first to walk down the aisle, signalling that the processional is about to begin. She can be accompanied by another family member, such as a son, nephew or cousin, or she can walk alone. Once she reaches the end of the aisle, she takes her seat, traditionally on the left side of the aisle in the first row.

The Officiant

The officiant, who may be a friend, family member, or ordained individual, walks up to the altar and stands there while the rest of the processional makes their way forward.

The Groom

The groom usually enters from the side of the venue, close to the right side of the altar, where the groom and his family are traditionally placed. However, it is becoming more common for the groom to be escorted down the aisle by both of his parents, who then sit on the right side of the aisle in the front row.

The Best Man

The best man either walks in from the same side as the groom or alone down the aisle. They stand next to the groom at the altar, in the closest spot behind him. The best man may also hold the bride's ring.

The Groomsmen

The groomsmen enter the ceremony one by one, in order of who will stand farthest away from the groom to closest.

The Bridesmaids

The bridesmaids walk down the aisle one by one, or in some cases, in pairs with the groomsmen.

The Maid of Honour

Before the ceremony, the maid of honour helps the bride with her dress, veil, and train. During the processional, she stands by the bride's side at the altar and holds her bouquet and sometimes the groom's ring.

The Flower Girl(s) and Ring Bearer(s)

The flower girl and ring bearer are the final processional members before the bride. Traditionally, the ring bearer carries the wedding rings on a small pillow, which are then handed to the best man. The flower girl may carry a basket of petals to scatter. Once they reach the end of the aisle, they can sit with their parents or stand with the rest of the bridal party.

The Father of the Bride and the Bride

The father of the bride traditionally escorts his daughter down the aisle, standing on her right side. After "giving her away", he lifts the veil, kisses the bride, and takes his seat next to the bride's mother.

Variations and Customisations

While the above is a traditional order, there is room for customisation. For example, the officiant can walk down the aisle first, or already be waiting at the end of the aisle. Grandparents can be included in the processional, and the groom's mother can walk him down the aisle. The wedding party can be mixed up, with bridesmaids and groomsmen alternating as they walk down the aisle.

For blended families, the stepmother can walk in behind the mother of the bride. The groom can be sent in right before the ring bearer and flower girl. The bride and groom can walk in as a couple, or the bride can be escorted by both her mother and father, just her mother, or a close family member such as a grandparent, uncle, or brother. The bride can also walk down the aisle alone, or with her children or pet.

Considering alternatives to the father walking the bride down the aisle

The traditional wedding processional sees the bride's father escorting her down the aisle. However, this is not the only option, and there are several alternatives to consider. Here are some ideas to make your wedding processional unique and personalised:

• Walk with another family member: If you want to continue with tradition but your father is unable to walk you down the aisle, consider having another cherished family member escort you. This could be a brother, mother, or even your children, if you have any.
• Go it solo: You don't need anyone to accompany you down the aisle. A solo walk can be empowering and symbolise the journey you are about to take independently.
• Skip the aisle altogether: If the idea of walking down the aisle is intimidating, there are aisle-free options. A circular ceremony configuration, for example, eliminates the aisle, or you could enter the ceremony site before the guests.
• Walk with your partner: A wedding is the start of a new journey together, so why not walk down the aisle together? Forget superstitions and do a first look before the ceremony, then join hands and walk towards your future.
• Add your mother to the mix: Honour both your parents by having them walk you down the aisle. This is a way to include your mother, who has likely put in just as much work, if not more, in raising you.
• Walk with both parents: If you are close with both your biological father and stepfather, you can have them both escort you down the aisle. Alternatively, one can start the walk, and the other can meet you halfway.
• Choose another loved one: Don't feel like it has to be a male relative who walks you down the aisle. A mother, grandmother, sister, or close friend are all beautiful choices for an escort.
• Create your own tradition: Ultimately, it's your wedding, and you can create your own processional order. Be creative and make it meaningful to you.

Remember, there are no rules when it comes to the wedding processional order. You can adapt and personalise it to fit your unique family dynamics and preferences.

Frequently asked questions