Walk This Way

Traditionally, the bride’s father would walk her down the aisle and literally ‘gave her away’, transferring guardianship from himself to the groom. While women are no longer chattel (thank goodness!), the tradition of the father ‘giving the bride away’ serves as a show of support of the union from the family.

But what if your client’s familial situation isn’t conducive to this (father has passed on, estranged relations) or if they prefer to break with tradition? The one thing to remember is that nothing obligates your client from following any tradition – this is THEIR wedding, so they can do whatever they feel most comfortable doing. A few ideas for non-traditional aisle accompaniment:

• both parents (mother and father)

• mother

• grandfather

• brother

• maid of honor

• family friend

• their children

• walk down alone

• walk down with their groom

One thing to note is brides can walk down with a bridesmaid or multiple people as there’s no rule for only walking with one or two people. Just be sure the aisle is wide enough for whatever your client dreams of!

While this may be a tough conversation to have with the client, it is one that needs to be had. Not only will it have you prepared for the ceremony, but it will also allow you to become closer to your client. Not only do you get to reassure her this is normal you get to reassure her you are there for her and her big day will go over smoothly!