Marriage Ceremonies

Marriage Ceremonies

A marriage ceremony used to be purely religious but contemporary, more secular ceremonies have become very popular over the last century. No matter which type of marriage ceremony you choose, the processional is the first glance the wedding guests get at the wedding party. You only get one shot at first impressions, so consider all options you have available.

A Catholic wedding processional begins with the priest followed by the groom and best man that enter through a side door. They wait at the altar for the groomsmen and bridesmaids that enter in pairs. The two that stand furthest from the groom and bride are the first to enter. The maid of honor enters alone, followed by the flower girl and ring bearer. Finally, the father (or other close family member) and the bride enter, arm in arm. The bride walks on the left and the father or escort leads her to the front of the aisles, taking his place next to the mother of the bride.

A Protestant wedding is similar with a few twists. The mothers of both the bride and the groom are seated after all other guests have taken their seats, usually escorted by a male family member, friend of the groom or other usher. The processional music starts right after the mothers have been seated. The officiator, groom and best man usually enter by a side door or entry and take their places at the altar. The groomsmen either escort the bridesmaids or follow the groom and best man through the side door. The bridesmaids, ring bearer, flower girl and maid or matron of honor then enter. The bride, escorted by her father or other close male relative, makes her way to the altar. The escort stays standing until the minister asks

Marriage Ceremonies