Wedding Tips

Processional

	Groom and men attendants. (They usually come in from the vestry).
	Bridesmaids.
	Matron or Maid of honor.
	Flower girl. (Flower girl and ring bearer sometimes walk down aisle together).
	Ring bearer.
	Bride on father's left arm. By the bride being on father's left arm, the father stands between bride and groom until bride is given away. This is traditional; however, if you have a long train, we suggest the right arm.

Recessional

	Bride on groom's right arm.
	Flower girl on ring bearer's right arm.
	Maid or matron of honor on the best man's right arm.
	Bridesmaids on the right arm of groomsmen.

Receiving Line

Traditional

	The bride's mother is considered the hostess to the wedding. She is usually first in the receiving line.
	Ushers first bring out bride's parents, then the groom's parents. After each set of parents wish the newlyweds well, they take their place in the receiving line.
	Parents are alternated in the receiving line so each can introduce the other to the new side of the family.
	Best man, and men attendants do not stand in line, and it is not improper for either the bride's father or groom's father to be omitted from the line.
	Children do not stand in the receiving line.
	The easiest response for the bride and groom to make -- and it hurries the line along -- is a warm and gracious "thank you".

Regardless if the line forms from the right or left the usual order of the line is as shown.

Bride's mother

Groom's father

Groom's mother

Bride's father

Bride

Groom

Maid of honor

Bridesmaids

Alternate

Weddings of today are more celebrated and elaborate than those of past years. Because of long receptions, meals, and dancing, time is an important factor in planning your wedding. The alternate receiving line method has become accepted and preferred by many. It is as follows:

	After the recessional - the groom or head usher returns down the aisle to escort the bride's parents out; after which he escorts the groom's parents out.
	The bride and groom now return down the aisle and addresses each row beginning on the brides side then alternating from brides side to grooms side. It is only necessary for the bride and groom to address each row by saying *"thank you for sharing this time with us, and we hope to see you at the reception."* By doing this, you have thanked an entire row instead of each individual.

	If you wish, the traditional receiving line can still be set up; just omit the bride and groom.
	The average time saved by using the alternate receiving line set-up is up to 20-30 minutes. This method also looks impressive and adds a personal touch.

Other Wedding Tips

	Church seating arrangements - as you enter, the left side of the church is reserved for the bride's family and friends. The right side for the groom's family and friends.
	It is more comfortable for the bride to be out of sight of the in-coming guests. If the church is small, consider having the bride arrive just before the ceremony begins.
	Shortly before the ceremony is to start, the ushers seat the groom's parents.
	The bride's mother is the last person to be seated before the ceremony begins.
	The bride is escorted up the aisle by her father. If father is not living, then by brother, or older relative, or family friend. Brides escort stays as far to the left or right side of the aisle as possible, depending on which arm is used, to permit bride to walk down the center of the aisle, for the sake of appearance and to protect her gown.

	When bride starts down the aisle in the processional, the user spreads out train of her gown evenly behind her.
	The newlyweds first kiss at the altar? Ask your clergyman.
	When planning your time schedule, please allow sufficient time so no one is rushed. Especially the time between your wedding and reception. It is always a good idea to consult all your service providers before setting times.