Wedding Ceremony Processional Order

The wedding ceremony processional is one of the most iconic moments of the entire day. It's the beginning of your love story unfolding in front of your guests music playing, hearts pounding, and all eyes on you. Whether you're planning a traditional, modern, or personalized ceremony, understanding the typical processional order can help ensure the moment runs smoothly and feels meaningful.

Wedding Ceremony Processional: Who Walks When and How

The wedding processional is the formal entrance of the wedding party into the ceremony space. It typically begins with the officiant and ends with the bride’s grand entrance, but the order can vary depending on cultural traditions, religious customs, or personal preferences.

Here’s a common outline for a traditional wedding ceremony:

1. Officiant: Sometimes the officiant enters first and waits at the altar.

2. Grandparents of the Groom: Walk down the aisle and are seated in the front row.

3. Grandparents of the Bride: Walk down the aisle and are seated in the front row.

4. Parents of the Groom: May walk together or with escorts.

5. Mother of the Bride: Often the last to be seated before the ceremony officially begins.

6. Groom: Walks down solo, with the officiant, or with his parents.

7. Groomsmen: Can enter all at once from the side or walk individually or in pairs.

8. Bridesmaids: Walk one by one or in pairs, leading up to the maid/matron of honor.

9. Maid or Matron of Honor: Walks alone right before the ring bearer and flower girl.

10. Ring Bearer: Carries the rings on a pillow or in a secure box.

1. Flower Girl: Scatters petals or simply walks down the aisle.

1. Bride and Escort: The bride traditionally walks with her father (or other chosen person), but this can be customized however you like.

Not every couple fits the traditional mold and that’s a good thing! You can create a processional that reflects your values, culture, or relationship.

Alternative ideas include:

• The couple walking in together

• Both partners being escorted by both parents

• No gender roles—just "attendants" on either side

• A “first look” before the ceremony and walking in as a pair

• Grandparents or children leading the way for a blended family

The most important part is that it feels authentic and meaningful to you. Your processional sets the tone for your entire wedding ceremony. Whether you stick with tradition or build your own version, it should reflect your relationship, your values, and the people who matter most to you.

Wedding Ceremony Recessional Order

The recessional is the formal exit of the wedding party and newlyweds at the end of the ceremony. It’s usually accompanied by upbeat or triumphant music and sets the tone for what comes next: photos, cocktail hour, or the reception. While it may seem simple, having a clear order ensures that everyone exits gracefully and the moment remains just as memorable as your grand entrance.

Here’s a classic recessional order often seen:

1. Newlyweds: The couple leads the way down the aisle, arm-in-arm, just moments after being pronounced married.

2. Flower Girl and Ring Bearer: If they’re young, they may follow the couple or be guided out by a parent or wedding coordinator.

3. Maid or Matron of Honor and Best Man: These two exit together, typically arm-in-arm.

4. Bridesmaids and Groomsmen: Each pair walks out together, typically in the same order they entered during the processional.

5. Parents of the Bride: Often escorted out by an usher or walk out together.

6. Parents of the Groom: Same as above; they follow the bride’s parents.

7. Grandparents and Other Honored Guests: They are usually escorted out by ushers or family members.

8. Officiant: Sometimes the officiant exits last, or stays behind briefly to assist with post-ceremony logistics.

Not every couple wants to follow a traditional format, and that’s totally okay! You can adjust your recessional based on your preferences, your family structure, or your ceremony setting.

Some variations could include:

• The couple exiting with children or pets for a blended family vibe

• A wedding party walking out in a choreographed or fun style

• Parents and grandparents staying seated while guests begin to exit

• Everyone dancing or celebrating their way back down the aisle (hello, upbeat recessional songs!)

Whether you stick with tradition or build your own version, your wedding should reflect your relationship, your values, and the people who matter most to you. Historic Acres of Hershey is a beautiful wedding and event venue, perfect for all kinds of gatherings, set amidst the rolling hills in the Pennsylvania countryside. If you are in love, you are welcome here. Contact our team to learn more or to schedule a tour.