Deborah Chan
A wedding aisle runner is a long piece of fabric placed on the ground that starts at the entrance or threshold of the wedding ceremony venue and ends at the altar. It is typically unrolled along the aisle just before the bride's entrance, creating a dedicated path for her as she makes her way to the altar. The aisle runner can be made from various materials, including polyester, burlap, turf, acrylic, or fabric, and is usually white, but can also be coloured to match the wedding theme or colour scheme. To avoid tripping hazards, it is important to secure the runner at both ends using stakes, pins, tape, weights, or flower pots.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Installation | Use stakes, pins, tape, weights, or flower pots to secure the runner. |
| Timing | Typically, the runner is rolled out just before the bride's entrance. |
| Who | Two groomsmen or ushers usually roll out the runner. |
| Purpose | Aisle runners add to the aesthetics of the venue and serve functional and traditional roles. |
| Materials | Polyester, burlap, turf, polyolefin, carpet, acrylic, heavy-duty fabric, glitter, or sequin. |
| Colors | White, ruby, navy, gold, silver, or custom-printed. |
| Width | Four-foot-wide runners are ideal for large venues or couples who want their wedding party to walk side by side. |
| Guests | Avoid having guests walk on the runner as it may get damaged or dirty. |
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What You'll Learn
- Timing: Roll out just before the bride's entrance, or after guests are seated
- Materials: Use stakes, tape, pins, weights or flower pots to secure
- Length: Account for extra length to secure runner at both ends
- Fabric: Choose polyester, burlap, turf, acrylic or heavy-duty fabric
- Colour: White is traditional, but match to your colour scheme or venue
Timing: Roll out just before the bride's entrance, or after guests are seated
Aisle runners are a beautiful addition to any wedding ceremony, adding elegance and tradition to the occasion. They are a common feature at weddings, with many couples choosing to include them as a decorative element. The timing of rolling out the aisle runner is important to ensure it looks its best for the bride's entrance.
If you want to avoid any potential issues with the aisle runner, such as wrinkles or tears, the best time to roll it out is just before the bride's entrance. This way, it will look pristine and untouched as she makes her way down the aisle. It can be rolled out by the groomsmen or ushers, creating a dramatic moment as the bride begins her walk. This timing also ensures that the aisle runner is not damaged or dirtied by guests walking on it.
However, some couples prefer to have the aisle runner rolled out after the guests are seated. This approach ensures that the runner is properly secured and there are no tripping hazards for guests entering the ceremony. It also allows for a grand reveal of the runner, creating a magical moment when the doors open and the bride makes her entrance. To achieve this, the aisle runner can be rolled out from the front to the back of the aisle after everyone is seated.
If you choose to roll out the aisle runner before the guests arrive, it is important to rope off the aisle or block it with a ribbon to prevent guests from walking on it. This ensures that the runner remains in good condition and reduces the risk of wrinkles or tears. It also adds an element of tradition, as guests are escorted to their seats along the outside of the aisle, reserving the centre aisle for the wedding party.
The material of the aisle runner is also an important consideration. Polyester, burlap, and turf are common choices, each offering different advantages. Polyester is long-lasting and non-slip, reducing the risk of falls. Burlap is classic and durable, while turf is lightweight, durable, and UV-protected. For outdoor weddings, a high-quality polyolefin carpet with a rubber backing can provide a smooth and secure surface for the wedding party to walk on.
Overall, the timing of rolling out the aisle runner is a key factor in ensuring a smooth and elegant ceremony. By rolling it out just before the bride's entrance or after the guests are seated, you can create a memorable and magical moment, while also minimising the risk of any wrinkles, tears, or tripping hazards.
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Materials: Use stakes, tape, pins, weights or flower pots to secure
Aisle runners are typically made with polyester, burlap, or turf. Polyester is long-lasting and non-slip, reducing the risk of slipping or falling. Turf is UV-protected, weather and fade-resistant, durable, and lightweight. If you're using turf, you can easily stake down the runner using the reinforced grommet corners. Polyolefin is another option, offering better flexibility and stretch.
If you're using a lightweight aisle runner, you can secure it with stakes, pins, tape, weights, or flower pots. If you're installing the runner on a carpeted floor, you can use pins to secure it, or simply rely on the weight of the runner itself if it's made from polyolefin or actual carpet. For outdoor weddings, tent pegs or garden stakes work well on soil or sand. You can also use small votives with lights, weighted-metal candle holder stands, decorative stones, or coloured pouches with sand inside. For a beach wedding, use heavy objects such as driftwood, rocks, or potted plants to anchor the edges.
If you're using a soft surface such as carpet or grass, be aware that heels will likely puncture the runner. If you're using a slippery surface like tile, the aisle runner will increase the slip factor. Most cheap aisle runners do not have a backing, so it's important to choose a quality runner to avoid falls.
To avoid the issue of tripping, it's recommended that the aisle runner is rolled out just before the bride's entrance, or occasionally, just before the first bridesmaid. If you do choose to roll out the runner before guests arrive, you can block the centre aisle and require guests to enter via side aisles.
To ensure the runner is properly secured, have someone at the end with scissors and tape or pins to quickly secure it down. If the venue has doors, pull the runner straight back and close the doors to work your magic. If there are no doors, roll the runner back as far as possible and leave it until the bride enters, then quietly secure it while all eyes are at the front.
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Length: Account for extra length to secure runner at both ends
A wedding aisle runner is a long piece of material laid down along the middle aisle of your wedding ceremony for the couple and wedding party to walk down. It is a wedding tradition and serves as a decorative element while providing a defined path for the bridal party to walk down during the ceremony. Aisle runners are usually rolled down just before the bride's entrance, although some couples choose to roll them out before the first bridesmaid.
When measuring the length of your aisle runner, it is important to account for extra length at both ends to secure the runner. You should add at least 2 feet after the back of the last row of seats. If your aisle runner is longer than the length of your aisle, you will need someone at the other end with scissors, tape, or pins to quickly secure it down before the bridal entrance. This is important to avoid any accidents and to ensure that the runner does not move.
For outdoor wedding runners, you can use pins or nails to secure the runner to the ground. Some runners have grommet holes to prevent the material from tearing, and you can also add them yourself for extra protection. You can also use stakes, weights, or flower pots to secure the runner. If you are using a carpet aisle runner for an indoor wedding, use strong double-sided tape along the sides of the runner to prevent it from shifting.
It is recommended to install your aisle runner well before the ceremony begins to avoid any delays and to ensure that it is properly secured. This will also allow you to fix any issues that may arise, such as wrinkles or crooked edges.
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Fabric: Choose polyester, burlap, turf, acrylic or heavy-duty fabric
When selecting the fabric for your wedding aisle runner, it's important to consider the theme, venue, and surface of your wedding. Here are some popular fabric options to choose from:
Polyester
Polyester is a common choice for indoor weddings as it is long-lasting and non-slip, reducing the risk of slipping or falling. It is elegant and can complement various wedding themes and settings. It is also easy to secure with tape, weights, or flower pots.
Burlap
Burlap, also known as natural burlap, is a popular choice for outdoor weddings, especially those with a rustic or bohemian theme. It is durable, classic, and biodegradable, making it a practical option if you don't plan on reusing it. It comes in different widths and colours, allowing for customisation.
Turf
Turf aisle runners are ideal for outdoor venues as they are UV-protected, weather and fade-resistant, durable, and lightweight. They provide a smooth surface for walking and are easy to secure with stakes due to their reinforced grommet corners.
Acrylic
Acrylic fabric, including satin and organza, is often chosen for indoor weddings as it provides a soft and luxurious feel. These fabrics add elegance to the ceremony and can be secured with double-sided tape.
Heavy-duty fabric
Heavy-duty fabrics like vinyl are commonly used for outdoor weddings due to their durability and resistance to the elements. Vinyl is a practical choice for beach weddings as it provides a stable and clean surface on the sand.
Remember, there are no set rules when it comes to choosing the fabric for your wedding aisle runner. You can select a fabric that best suits your theme, colour scheme, and venue, creating a personalised and stylish walkway for your special day.
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Colour: White is traditional, but match to your colour scheme or venue
A white aisle runner is the most common and traditional choice for weddings. However, you can also choose a colour that matches your wedding colour scheme or complements the venue's greenery.
If you want to keep your wedding colour scheme consistent, you can select from a wide range of colours offered by various companies, including red, beige, cream, gold, black, and various shades of these colours. You can even opt for a glitzy gold aisle runner to add a touch of glamour to your wedding.
If you're having an outdoor wedding, you might want to consider a colour that complements the venue's natural surroundings, such as the greenery or the colour of the sky. This can create a beautiful and cohesive look for your ceremony.
The material of the aisle runner can also influence your colour choice. For example, burlap runners are available in natural and cream colours, while velvet runners come in a range of plush colours. Polyester aisle runners are also a popular choice due to their durability and non-slip properties, and they are typically available in various colours as well.
When deciding on a colour, it is recommended to request colour samples, as the representation of colours online can vary from one monitor to another. This will ensure that you find the perfect shade that matches your vision and complements your wedding venue.
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Frequently asked questions
It is typical to put down the aisle runner just before the bride's entrance. Some couples opt to roll it out before the first bridesmaid or after the guests have been seated.
Traditionally, wedding ushers or groomsmen are responsible for rolling out the aisle runner.
To avoid tripping hazards, secure the aisle runner at both ends using stakes, pins, tape, weights, or flower pots. If your aisle runner is longer than the aisle, have someone at the other end with scissors, tape, or pins to quickly secure it.
The type of aisle runner you use depends on your venue and theme. Polyester aisle runners are long-lasting and non-slip, while turf aisle runners are UV-protected, durable, and lightweight, making them ideal for outdoor weddings. For a rustic theme, a burlap runner is a good option. You can also choose a colour or pattern that matches your colour scheme or venue's greenery.
