There are many ways the groom and bride can enter, and much depends
on how many attendants you have. The ceremony begins with the groom's
mother and then the bride's mother being seated in the front row aisle
seats by an usher, a groomsman, or sometimes even the groom. Then
the minister and the groom walk out together. The best man and groomsmen
may follow, or they may escort the bridesmaids from the back of the
room and down the aisle. If there is a ringbearer, he or she follows
the other attendants. The flower girl, if there is one, usually enters
right before the bride. For simple weddings, the same bridal march
can be used for the attendants and the bride. With several bridesmaids,
you may want an introductory piece, followed by the wedding march
for the bride only. The mothers take the lead in standing up when
the bride enters. If the bride's father or another man is escorting
her down the aisle, he walks on the bride's right. He can simply escort
her down the aisle and then sit down, or the officiant may ask, ``Who
gives this bride in marriage to this man?'' or ``Who blesses this
marriage?'' The father replies ``I do,'' ``Her mother and I do,''
or ``Her family and I do.'' The minister then says, ``Thank you.''
The father may kiss the bride on the cheek, and perhaps offer her
right hand to the groom's left hand as they walk the last step to
the front together. The father or escort then sits down in the first
row.
Continue to Part Two:
The Sermon - option
#1, option #2, option
#3, option #4
Colorado
Wedding Ceremonies
