Order In The Church: The Order Of Your Processional

by Mia Bolaris-Forget (Staff Writer)

We all know that the groom waits for his beautiful bride up at the alter and that the bride makes her grand entrance AFTER everyone else. But, what about everyone in between? What is their correct order of emergence from behind closed doors?

According to authorities, many religions call for the processional after the users have seated guests and moms have been escorted.

At this point, the first persons to take the stroll down the aisle are the bridesmaids, but in reverse order from that which you’ve chosen them. And, if you have a relatively “large” bridal party (6 gals or more) you may want to pair them up for the processional to save time.

Groomsmen can either wait at the front of the church or place of worship, meet the bridesmaids halfway down the aisle, or escort them all the way down the aisle from the doorway to the alter. But, experts suggest discussing your thoughts with your officiant since they will likely have suggestions on what will work best for you and in your situation.

Your bridesmaids (and groomsmen) are then generally followed by your junior bridesmaid, if you have one.

Next down the aisle is your maid of honor, or if you have two honor attendants, they can walk down the aisle together.

Your flower girls (or girls) are next in line, accompanied or followed by the ring bearer.

It’s now time for everyone to rise as the bride and her dad or escort, make their grand entrance with the escort taking the bride’s left arm.

And, if you have a trainbearer or page, they typically follow the bride.

This order is then reversed for the prelude with the groomsmen escorting bridesmaids out on their left arm.

However, couples should note that some religions may have different rules, so it’s best to ask.