Tips for Getting to the Altar
Walking down the aisle is one of the most treasured moments of your wedding day, and entire lifetime. To make sure you don’t miss a step, follow these straightforward guidelines at your church rehearsal and actual ceremony.
Your arms should be linked with your escort, whether it’s your father, your husband, or someone else. Don’t hold hands or grab each other by the waist. Unless you’re losing your balance, it’s best not to grab him by the shoulder.
Your bouquet is held in front of your waist so that your hands aren’t squashed at your side. In addition to this being formal etiquette, it has another advantage. “When your arms are flat at your side, they look heavy in photographs,” says Danielle Bobish of Curtain Up Events in New York City.
Remember to take your time, and to take everything in, says Bobish. “This is your one walk down the aisle and your moment. Milk it for all its worth.”
Bobish says that nerves cause people to move too quickly. Instead, look up at your groom, and feel free to make eye contact with people in the room. While you shouldn’t run to the side or start making air-kisses, it’s okay to smile back when you see Mom crying in the front row. Also, no one is in any rush for you to get to the altar; their eyes will all be enjoying your moment as well.
If you have a train, the person behind you normally holds it. If there is no one taking care of it, your Maid of Honor (who walks down right before you) should fan out your dress and train right before she takes her turn in the spotlight.
Most important, relax, breathe, and know the man you love is just a few short steps away.
-David Toussaint
Check Out the Church Rehearsal
Check Out Alternate Escorts if Dad can’t Be There
Check Altar & Aisle Decorations