The Processional Order: A Guide to Honouring Tradition and Your Unique Story

Lisa Cooper
Oct 22, 2025
3 min read

Setting the Stage: More Than Just Walking Down the Aisle

The processional order—the way you and your party enter the ceremony space—is the moment the magic begins. It sets the tone, provides the first emotional reveal, and establishes the importance of the event.

However, many couples feel pressured to follow rigid tradition, often forgetting that the best processional is the one that tells your story.

As your celebrant, my role is to guide you past the rulebook and create an order that is authentic, joyful, and completely reflective of your partnership.

Part I: The Traditional Processional Order (The Classic Structure)

The traditional processional is deeply rooted in religious ceremonies and follows a specific sequence designed to build anticipation for the final entrance.

The Classic Sequence:

The Officiant / Celebrant: Enters first and takes their position at the altar or front of the space.
The Groom and Best Man: Traditionally wait at the front. Alternatively, they can enter as the first pair of the main wedding party.
Grandparents & Seating of Families: Grandparents are often seated first, followed by the Parents of the Groom, and finally, the Mother of the Bride (the last family member to be seated before the main party enters).
The Wedding Party: Groomsmen and Bridesmaids enter next, often in pairs.
The Maid/Matron of Honour: Enters solo, just before the children.
Flower Girl(s) and Ring Bearer(s): Their entrance signals that the key moment is seconds away.
The Bride and Escort: The final and most anticipated entrance.

Part II: The Modern, Flexible Processional (The Tip Your Hat Approach)

Today, tradition is optional. The modern processional is about authenticity, equality, and inclusion. This is where we break away from rigid rules to design a flow that feels genuinely yours.

Scenarios for a Bespoke Processional:

Scenario	Who Enters & How	Key Benefit & Symbolism
The Unified Entrance	Both Partners walk down the aisle together, hand-in-hand.	Symbolizes starting the marriage as equals and a unified front. It alleviates pressure and establishes immediate togetherness.
Separate, Equal Focus	Partner 1 (e.g., the Groom) is escorted by both parents or a loved one. Partner 2 (the Bride) enters last, escorted by their chosen person.	Provides a special moment for both individuals and their families, ensuring equal focus on both entrances.
The Family Forward	The Bride or Groom is escorted by a team of loved ones—both parents, siblings, or their own children.	A beautiful choice for blended families or for honouring multiple significant people in your life.
The No-Aisle Option	The entire wedding party, including the couple, is already assembled at the front when guests arrive.	Perfect for small, informal, or unusual venues. It eliminates performance pressure and maximizes time with guests.

Part III: The Celebrant's Expertise: Essential Practical Details

The difference between a nice ceremony and a flawlessly delivered one is in the detail. Here are a few professional considerations I bring to every bespoke processional:

Integrating Music Cues

The emotional arc of the processional is dictated by the music. We will select distinct pieces for three key moments to maximize impact:

The Prelude/Guest Seating (Background music).
The Processional (The main wedding party enters).
The Bridal/Final Entrance (The key emotional reveal).

As your celebrant, I manage the timing and cue the musicians/tech team to ensure your music lands perfectly with each step.

Including Children and Pets

Children and pets add immense joy, but need management. We can integrate your dog as a ring bearer or your children as escorts, provided we have a solid plan and a dedicated handler to ensure their comfort (and a smooth ceremony!).

The Recessional (The Exit)

The recessional is the joyous release. The order is simple and quick:

The newly married Couple exits first to celebratory music.
The Wedding Party follows the couple (in pairs or groups).
Family and Guests follow them.

Conclusion: Let Your Story Lead

The best processional order is the one that captures your true identity and celebrates the start of your adventure. Don't worry about "what you should do"—focus on what you want to feel.