The Bridesmaids' Walk: Timing And Tradition

The wedding processional is the term for the group of people walking down the aisle to mark the beginning of a wedding ceremony. The order of the processional varies depending on the type of wedding, but typically, the bridesmaids walk down the aisle before the maid of honour. In a traditional Christian ceremony, the bridesmaids walk down the aisle after the mother of the bride and before the flower girl(s) and ring bearer(s). In a traditional Jewish ceremony, the bridesmaids walk down the aisle after the best man and the groom, and before the maid of honour. In a traditional Hindu ceremony, the bridal party walks down the aisle before the bride. In a Catholic wedding, the bridesmaids walk down the aisle after the mother of the bride and before the flower girl and ring bearer.

Who walks down the aisle with the bridesmaids?

The wedding processional refers to the group of people walking down the aisle to mark the beginning of a wedding ceremony. The processional often includes the wedding party, flower girls, ring bearers, and the bride and groom and their parents. The order of the processional depends on the type of wedding ceremony.

Traditional Christian Wedding Processional Order

In a traditional Christian wedding, the mother of the bride is the first to walk down the aisle, followed by the groom, who traditionally takes their place at the head of the altar. The best man is next, either walking in from the side or as the last groomsman. The groomsmen then walk down the aisle one by one, followed by the bridesmaids. The maid or matron of honour walks down the aisle after the bridesmaids and stands next to the bride during the ceremony. The flower girl and ring bearer precede the bride, who is escorted by her father.

Traditional Jewish Wedding Processional Order

In a traditional Jewish wedding, the rabbi and/or cantor are the first to walk down the aisle, followed by the bride's grandparents, the groom's grandparents, the best man, and the groom, who is accompanied by his parents. The bridesmaids then walk down the aisle in pairs, followed by the maid or matron of honour, the ring bearer, and the flower girl. The bride is escorted by both of her parents and they are accompanied by the bride's grandparents.

Traditional Nondenominational Wedding Processional Order

In a nondenominational wedding, the officiant is usually already at the altar to signal the beginning of the processional. The groom and his groomsmen can already be at the altar as well, or they can walk down the aisle. The best man will follow the groom's lead. The groomsmen and bridesmaids then walk in pairs, starting with those standing farthest from the couple. The maid or matron of honour walks alone, followed by the flower girl and/or ring bearer. The bride may be escorted by her father, mother, or both, or she may decide to not have an escort.

Traditional Catholic Wedding Processional Order

In a Catholic wedding, the priest, followed by the groom and best man, enter the ceremony first. The groomsmen and bridesmaids then walk down the aisle in pairs, with the groomsman on the right and the bridesmaid on the left. The maid or matron of honour walks after the groomsmen and bridesmaids and stands next to the bride. The flower girl and ring bearer walk together or with the ring bearer preceding the flower girl. The bride is escorted by her father, who traditionally sits next to the bride's mother after giving her away.

Traditional Christian Ceremony in the United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, the bride and her father traditionally walk down the aisle first, leading the procession of bridesmaids, flower girls, and pageboys. The groom and best man follow the officiant and take their places at the altar, with the groom's back to the bride until she reaches the altar. The bride's father stands to the left of the bride, and after giving her away, sits next to the bride's mother. The rest of the wedding party walks down the aisle in pairs, following the bride and her father.

In a traditional Christian wedding, the groomsmen walk down the aisle with the bridesmaids. In a traditional Jewish wedding, the groomsmen walk down the aisle in pairs, followed by the groom, who is accompanied by his parents. In a nondenominational wedding, the groomsmen and bridesmaids walk in pairs, starting with those standing farthest from the couple. In a Catholic wedding, the groomsmen and bridesmaids walk in pairs, with the groomsman on the right and the bridesmaid on the left. In a traditional Christian ceremony in the United Kingdom, the youngest male attendants, called page boys, walk with the bridesmaids.

When do bridesmaids walk down the aisle in relation to the groomsmen?

The wedding processional order varies depending on the type of wedding ceremony. In a traditional Christian ceremony, the groom and best man enter from the side of the venue and take their places at the altar. The bridesmaids and groomsmen then walk down the aisle, either in pairs or individually, with the best man always coming last. The maid of honour follows, and then the flower girl and ring bearer. Finally, the bride and her father walk down the aisle. In a Catholic wedding, the priest, groom and best man enter first, followed by the groomsmen, bridesmaids, maid of honour, flower girl and ring bearer, and then the bride and her father.

In a traditional Jewish ceremony, the rabbi or cantor is the first to walk towards the altar, followed by the bride's grandparents, the groom's grandparents, the best man, and the groom, who is accompanied by both his parents. The bridesmaids then walk down the aisle, either solo or in pairs, followed by the maid of honour, flower girl and/or ring bearer, and finally, the bride and her parents.

In a Hindu wedding, the groom's procession, or "baraat", begins the ceremony, with the groom arriving on horseback, by elephant, or in a luxury vehicle, accompanied by his family and friends. The bride's family welcomes him with music and rose petals, and then the bride arrives, escorted by loved ones, such as her maternal aunt and uncle, or her brothers.

In a nondenominational wedding, the officiant may enter from the side of the venue or walk down the aisle first, followed by the groom and best man, who may also enter from the side or walk down the aisle. The groomsmen and bridesmaids then walk in pairs, or individually, followed by the maid of honour, flower girl and/or ring bearer, and then the bride, escorted by her father or another loved one.

In a modern wedding, the officiant walks down the aisle and stands at the altar, followed by the couple's parents, the wedding party, junior attendants, and then the couple, who may walk down the aisle alone or with their parents.

The LGBTQIA+ community can adapt any religious or cultural processional traditions or create their own. For example, one partner could enter first, followed by the other, or they could walk in together, or with their parents.

What do bridesmaids do before the brides walk down the aisle?

The bridesmaids' duties before the bride walks down the aisle will vary depending on the type of wedding ceremony and the preferences of the couple. However, here is a general overview of what bridesmaids typically do before the bride's grand entrance:

• Assisting the Bride: This is one of the most important duties of a bridesmaid. Before the ceremony, the maid or matron of honor (the bride's right-hand woman) helps the bride with her dress, veil, and train, ensuring everything looks perfect. She may also be responsible for holding the bride's bouquet during the ceremony and returning it to the bride after the kiss.
• Walking Down the Aisle: In most wedding traditions, the bridesmaids precede the bride down the aisle. They may walk solo, in pairs, or with groomsmen. The maid or matron of honor usually walks alone after the other bridesmaids.
• Seating Arrangements: During the processional, the bridesmaids typically take their places at the front, on the left side of the altar. The first bridesmaid often takes her place farthest from the bride, and they may form a diagonal line to get a good view of the couple.
• Other Duties: In some cases, bridesmaids may have additional duties before the bride walks down the aisle. For example, they might help with last-minute preparations, such as ensuring the venue is ready or assisting the bride with final touches on her hair and makeup.

Remember, the specifics may vary depending on the couple's preferences and the type of wedding ceremony. It's always a good idea to communicate with the couple and the other members of the wedding party to understand your responsibilities and ensure a smooth and memorable wedding ceremony.

What do bridesmaids do during the ceremony?

The bridesmaids' duties during the ceremony are largely focused on supporting the bride and ensuring her comfort and peace of mind. Here is a detailed breakdown of what bridesmaids typically do during the wedding ceremony:

Before the Ceremony

Bridesmaids often assist the bride with final preparations, such as checking that her dress, veil, and train are perfectly in place. They ensure that the bride's bouquet, dress, and overall appearance are pristine before she walks down the aisle. This role is usually assigned to the maid or matron of honour, but other bridesmaids may also lend a helping hand.

During the Processional

The bridesmaids typically walk down the aisle before the maid or matron of honour. They may walk individually or in pairs, depending on the couple's preference and the layout of the space. If there are groomsmen, the bridesmaids may walk alongside them or separately. The bridesmaids' procession is often a memorable moment, as it builds anticipation for the bride's entrance.

At the Altar

Once at the altar, the bridesmaids take their designated places, usually standing in a line or diagonally to have a good view of the couple. The first bridesmaid to walk down the aisle will stand farthest from the bride, and the subsequent bridesmaids follow in order. The maid or matron of honour typically stands closest to the bride, ready to offer any assistance needed during the ceremony.

Holding the Bouquet

During the ceremony, the maid or matron of honour may hold the bride's bouquet, especially during moments when the bride needs both hands, such as exchanging rings or signing the register. This duty can also be shared among the bridesmaids if the bride prefers.

Supporting the Bride

Throughout the ceremony, the bridesmaids are there to provide emotional support and ensure the bride feels calm and confident. They may offer a reassuring smile, a gentle word of encouragement, or a subtle reminder to the bride if needed. Their presence is a source of comfort and celebration for the bride as she takes this significant step.

After the Ceremony

Following the ceremony, the bridesmaids typically join the recessional, exiting the ceremony space alongside the groomsmen. They may walk in pairs or individually, mirroring their entrance. The bridesmaids then proceed to the wedding photos, reception, and any other post-ceremony activities, continuing to support and celebrate the newlywed couple.

When do bridesmaids walk down the aisle in a non-traditional ceremony?

The wedding processional is a memorable part of the ceremony, and while there are traditional orders for who walks down the aisle and when, couples are increasingly choosing to personalise this aspect of their wedding.

If you're planning a non-traditional ceremony, here are some ideas for when your bridesmaids should walk down the aisle:

• Have the bridesmaids walk down the aisle with the groomsmen– they can enter in pairs, or with one attendant from the bride's side walking alongside an attendant from the groom's side.
• Mix up the wedding party– bridesmaids and groomsmen can walk down the aisle in an alternate order, rather than in two separate groups.
• Have all your close family walk down the aisle before the bridesmaids and groomsmen– this can include grandparents, parents, step-parents, and other family members.
• Send in the groom with or without his parents before the bridesmaids– this can be a nice way to signal the start of the processional.
• Have the bridesmaids walk down the aisle first– this breaks with tradition, which usually dictates that the bridesmaids walk after the groom and his groomsmen.
• Skip the walk down the aisle entirely– instead, your wedding party could enter the ceremony space from the side or backdoor once the ceremony begins, or you could mingle with guests and then make your way to the front.

Remember, there are no rules when it comes to your wedding processional order, so feel free to adapt it to suit your personal style, preferences, and family dynamics.

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