Here are some tips for creating the perfect wedding processional.
Imagine the processional as the grand opening act of your wedding day. Guests are seated, the air is buzzing with excitement, and the music starts, signaling the beginning of something beautiful. Your wedding party makes its debut, setting the stage for the star of the show, you!
The processional is the ceremonial beginning of your wedding, marking the wedding party’s entrance and culminating with your memorable walk down the aisle. This is where your wedding day story unfolds, set to the music of your choice. Here are some tips for creating the perfect wedding processional.
What is a Wedding Processional?
A wedding processional is the order in which people walk down the aisle at the start of a wedding ceremony. Think of your wedding processional as a chance for your guests to see the happy couple and other people who have played an essential role in your relationship leading up to the wedding day. Deciding who will precede you down the aisle and the order in which they walk into your ceremony is totally up to you.
Most importantly, you and your partner feel like the processional aligns with your style and values.
Who is Included in the Wedding Processional?
The wedding processional is a chance to introduce guests to the special people who may have been there from the beginning and watched your romance blossom. Since there are likely many people you want to walk down the aisle with you, here are some of the more likely suspects:
- The ring bearer: While typically a child, such as a niece or nephew, there’s no need to stick with tradition. In fact, including a beloved pet as the ring bearer could be a heartwarming way to begin your wedding processional! If you want to avoid making a big deal of the rings or prefer to cut down on timing, a wedding party member can also hold them.
- The flower person: Traditions have moved beyond “flower girl” — anyone can sprinkle flower petals down to the end of the aisle.
- Grandparents: While including grandparents is traditional in some religions, the practice isn’t limited to religious ceremonies. If you want your grandparents to have a special moment at your wedding, invite them to walk down the aisle!
- Parents: It’s common for parents to walk down the aisle with one (or both) of the individuals getting married. If this fits your style, great! If not, other options could be to have them process down the aisle together, solo, or with another close loved one.
- The wedding party: Whether you have bridesmaids, groomsmen, or entirely different roles you’ve defined on your own, these people have celebrated you along this journey of love.
Pick Your Processional Music
Now that you have your order, it’s time to pick some tunes. For most processionals, 2-3 songs are best. One is used for the parents and wedding party entering, and one for the final partner(s) making their entrance. If the aisle is very long or there are many people entering a third song can be used just for the parents.
HISTORIC OAKLAND MANOR: THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE
Nestled in a peaceful wooded area in the heart of downtown Columbia, Historic Oakland Manor stands proudly in natural splendor. Elegant Oakland is the perfect setting for ceremonies, wedding receptions, bridal showers, holiday parties, family celebrations, business meetings, or retreats. Schedule a tour today with our expert venue coordinators! Please call (410-730-4801), email ([email protected]), or visit our chat on our homepage to book a tour appointment.
