Your Perfect Processional (& there are so many options!)

Hello Gorgeous!

One thing every one of our clients should know and understand about the Certified Wedding Planners at Infinity Events is that though we know and understand etiquette and tradition, we believe in incorporating family dynamics and supporting clients’ desire to be different, then help them figure out the best way to do it! When it comes to ceremonies, we always say “create your own adventure” and we mean it, but where do you start? Let’s take a moment and go through some options when thinking about the processional order for the ceremony as it sets the tone for th event, creating a memorable moment as the wedding party and couple make their way down the aisle.

Please note: This information assumes a bride/groom couple. For our LGBTQ+ couples, we can choose any of these as a base processional option and adjust how we see fit! Customization is part of the journey!

Traditional Processional

In many American weddings, the processional follows a conventional order that honors long-standing customs. This order emphasizes the sense of ceremony and structure, creating a timeless feel for the couple and their guests.

Officiant: The officiant can stand at the altar before the processional begins or begin the processional by walking down the aisle first
Grandparents: Beginning with the groom’s family and followed by the bride’s
Parents: Beginning with the groom’s family and followed by the bride’s
Groom and Best Man: The groom enters from the side of the altar, often accompanied by his best man.
Groomsmen: The groomsmen may walk in singly or in pairs, or they can enter with the bridesmaids.
Bridesmaids: Bridesmaids process down the aisle one by one, leading up to the maid or matron of honor.
Maid/Matron of Honor: The last of the bridal party to walk down the aisle, she usually stands by the bride’s side.
Flower Girl and Ring Bearer: These young attendants precede the bride, scattering petals, carrying the rings, or hosting signage.
Bride and Escort: Finally, the bride enters, typically escorted by her father, to the excitement of the gathered guests.

Modern/Contemporary Processional

Couples today often opt for a modern twist on the traditional processional to reflect their personal tastes and preferences. This contemporary approach offers flexibility and can incorporate more personal touches, making the ceremony feel unique to the couple.

Officiant: The officiant can start at the altar
Grandparents and Parents: Typically beginning with the groom’s side and ending with the bride’s side
Groom: The groom might walk down the aisle alone, with his parents, or with his best man.
Groomsmen and Bridesmaids: Instead of walking separately, groomsmen and bridesmaids can pair up and walk down the aisle together.
Flower Girl and Ring Bearer: These children can still have their moment to shine just before the bride.
Bride and Escort: The bride’s entrance remains a highlight, but she might choose to walk with both parents or another significant person.

Personalized Processional

For those who want to break free from tradition altogether, a personalized processional can be designed to suit the couple’s vision. This non-traditional processional is perfect for couples looking to create a distinctive ceremony that truly represents their relationship and values.

Officiant: Positioned at the altar as the starting point or can proceed down the aisle. Processional for the officiant can show an additional honor to him/her and is considered especially when the officiant is a family friend or someone of significance to the couple.
Couple’s Entrance Together: Some couples prefer to walk down the aisle together, symbolizing their journey into marriage as equals.
Family and Friends: Instead of a formal bridal party, some couples choose to have close family members and friends walk down the aisle ahead of them, perhaps even sharing a few words or blessings.
Pets: Including pets in the processional can add a delightful and personal touch.
Unique Elements: Think outside the box with elements like musicians leading the way, or a pre-recorded message playing as guests take their seats.

At Infinity Events, we believe that our role is to educate couples about the rich traditions, cultural nuances, and etiquette surrounding wedding ceremonies. However, we also emphasize the importance of personalization. Every couple has unique priorities, family dynamics, and visions for their special day. Our job is to blend traditional elements with the couple’s individuality to create a ceremony that is both meaningful and memorable. We guide couples through the options, explaining guest expectations and cultural significance, and then help them craft a processional order that feels authentically theirs. Whether sticking to tradition or forging a new path, Infinity Events is dedicated to making every couple's ceremony as unique as their love story.