Traditional Wedding Ceremony Order (and How to Make It Your Own)

Planning your wedding ceremony can feel like a big task, especially when you're trying to figure out the order of events. One of the most helpful places to start is by looking at a traditional wedding processional. This post breaks down the classic ceremony order you’ll typically see at a nondenominational Western American wedding with a bride and groom, but remember, your day is completely yours to customize! Whether you're switching roles, walking solo, honoring step-parents, incorporating your religion, or blending cultures, there’s no wrong way to walk down the aisle.

As professional wedding planners we have created a guide for a traditional wedding ceremony order. Use it as a helpful starting point as you plan your own wedding ceremony, and tweak it however makes the most sense for you and your loved ones.

Traditional Wedding Ceremony Processional Order:

1. Officiant

The officiant typically enters first during the prelude music and takes their place at the front. They may make any necessary pre-ceremony announcements, like giving a welcome and a gentle reminder to silence phones for the unplugged ceremony, before the processional officially begins. Their presence at the altar signals to guests that the ceremony is about to start.

2. Groom’s Grandparents

First, the groom’s paternal grandparents, then maternal grandparents, are seated.

3. Bride’s Grandparents

The bride’s grandparents follow in the same order: paternal, then maternal.

4. Parents of the Groom

The groom’s parents are typically seated next. Some couples opt to have them walk together. Others may include stepparents or additional family members.

Photographer: Taylor Felts

5. Mother of the Bride (with Escort)

The mother of the bride is traditionally the last to be seated before the processional of the wedding party begins. She is usually escorted by a male relative, often a son, brother, or close family friend. The father of the bride can also escort her down, then swing back around to walk his daughter down the aisle.

6. Groom

Once all the family is seated, the groom typically makes his entrance. There are several options for how this moment can look. He may walk down the aisle solo, accompanied by one or both parents, or even with another meaningful person in his life.

7. Wedding Party

Bridesmaids and groomsmen walk down the aisle, either individually or paired together. This can also include co-ed bridal parties or members of all genders, whatever best reflects your crew! They can find their place at the altar starting from the furthest point out and working their way in, with your Maid of Honor and Best Man processing last. Alternatively, if your wedding party will be seated during the ceremony, they can walk directly to their reserved row and take a seat.

Photographer: Matlock & Kelly

8. Ring Bearer

The ring bearer walks down the aisle, carrying the rings (or symbolic ones if you're keeping the real ones safe with someone else!). We never recommend having the ring bearer stand up at the altar if he is below the age of 10, as most kids can not stand still for long periods of time at the altar. Instead have a reserved seat in the first few rows for him to sit with family members to enjoy the ceremony from the audience.

9. Flower Girl

The flower girl traditionally walks just before the bride, scattering petals down the aisle. Same as the ring bearer, we recommend that the flower girl stay seated throughout the entire ceremony.

10. Bride + Escort

Finally, the bride makes her grand entrance, usually with her father, another meaningful person of her choice or by herself. It’s a moment filled with emotion and tradition, but it’s entirely up to you how it looks and feels.

Photographer: Alex Kelly

This order is rooted in traditional Western American ceremonies, but today’s weddings are more diverse than ever. Feel free to swap roles, honor step-parents or other guardians, or skip roles altogether. Maybe your grandparents will already be seated, or you and your partner want to walk in together. There’s no “right” way, just your way.

No matter how your processional unfolds, the most important part is that it reflects your values, your family, and your story. Need help organizing your own ceremony order? We're happy to help you customize a lineup that feels perfect for your day. Reach out to us today to learn more about our wedding coordination and planning packages!