With today’s families, there is no longer a one-size-fits-all answer to which person should escort the bride down the aisle on her wedding day. Back when everything about weddings was traditional from the cake to the bride’s jewelry to the first dance song, it was always the father of the bride who was expected to walk her down the aisle. While many brides still do choose that option, it does not always work for every situation. You might not be close to your father, he might have passed away, or you might have a step-father to whom you are equally close. Luckily these days it is up to the bride to decide what works best for her particular situation. This is a look at the different options.
A beautiful bride walks down the aisle alone – stunning. Credit: Artage via Manette Gracie Events.
If you are having a hard time deciding which person you would like to have walk you down the aisle, one option to consider is simply walking by yourself. Does it take self-confidence to go solo? You bet, and what could be more beautiful than a confident glowing bride walking proudly down the aisle? A variation on this is to have your fiance meet you halfway down the aisle so you can complete the journey to the altar together. The symbolism will just melt your heart.
How sweet to have your mother walk you down the aisle. Credit: James M. Dvorscak Fine Wedding and Portrait Photography.
Who is your best friend? If you answer your mother is your closest friend in the world, consider having her be your ceremony escort. She can walk you along with your father or by herself. It is very sweet when a mom walks with her daughter on her wedding day. I think it is because the mother is not the most traditional choice, so it is obvious that she was specially chosen for the honor.
Father and stepfather walk their beautiful daughter down the aisle together. Credit: La Vida Creations.
So what if your dilemma is not lacking a father, but being torn between two dads? In these days of blended family arrangements, there are plenty of brides who are blessed to have a wonderful stepfather as well as a loving father. When in doubt, biology usually trumps, but sometimes the bride was raised primarily by her stepfather and he is her main father figure. If it wouldn’t start WW III, you might consider asking both dads to be your escorts. As long as they are on civil terms, it can be a great option. By the way, I love the pearl chandelier earrings and birdcage veil on the beaming bride in the picture above, don’t you?
Bride and groom walk down the aisle together. Credit: Manette Gracie Events.
The popularity of “First Look” wedding photography means that many couples now see each other before the start of their marriage ceremony. If you are opting for a First Look session, then you might even consider walking down the aisle arm in arm with your groom. While it is not so traditional, it is nice to think about taking the first steps of this important journey together.
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C’mon, this is so cute! Credit: Debbie Harmon Photography.
If you will be tying the knot outside, you could forget about a human escort and choose a beloved pet instead. It is really quite adorable, as well as your dog is relatively well trained. Just be sure that you won’t be offending anyone (like your dad) by choosing your dog instead. In the end, the best escort for the bride is the one that will make her feel the happiest. If that someone happends to have four legs instead of two, I say go for it!
