So… what’s the deal with walking down the aisle?

It’s one of those wedding moments that everyone knows. The music starts, the nerves kick in, and all eyes turn to watch you arrive. Whether you dream of a grand entrance or cringe at the thought of being centre stage, the aisle walk has a way of sticking around, even in the most alternative weddings. But do you have to do it? And where did the tradition even come from? As part of The Traditions Issue, let’s talk about it.

Where Did the “Walk Down The Aisle” Tradition Begin?

The classic aisle walk in Western weddings dates back to a time that was far less about romance and more about family deals and tradition. Back then, a bride was “given away” by her father, often as part of an agreement between families. Property, alliances, and social standing were top of mind – not love. Like so many wedding traditions, the meaning has shifted over time.

If you look at weddings around the world, you’ll find endless ways to make an entrance. In Jewish weddings, both partners often walk in with their parents. Hindu weddings might see the groom arrive in a lively parade, while the bride is escorted beneath a canopy. In many Pacific Islander and Indigenous cultures, ceremony entrances are all about music, dance, and family. The point is, it’s really about showing up for your moment, surrounded by your people, in a way that feels right for you.

Header and above photos by Leo Farrell via Jeremy & Ryan’s Modern Melbourne Wedding at Glasshaus Brücke

Is Walking Down The Aisle Still A Thing?

Absolutely – but it’s no longer one-size-fits-all. Some couples love the tradition of walking in with a parent or special person. Others skip it, start together at the front, or meet in the middle. LGBTQIA+ couples especially have shown us that there are no rules. It’s not about what’s expected, it’s about what fits your story.

You might walk in on your own, with both parents, a sibling, your child, or a best friend. Maybe you want to walk in together, or maybe you want everyone to just gather and start the ceremony with no entrance at all. The options are wide open.

Alternatives to Walking Down The Aisle

Not vibing the classic aisle walk? Here are some ways couples are making their entrance their own:

Ditch it!
Just skip it. Mingle with guests, then start the ceremony together.

Walk on your own
If walking solo feels empowering, make it a moment to soak it all in. And who says just one of you has to walk? You can each have your own grand entrance!

Walk together
Enter with your partner for a truly “we’re in this together” vibe.

Bring in someone special
Parents, kids, siblings, chosen family – whoever means the most.

Make it a group affair
Have your whole wedding party, your children, or even your pets join you.

Change the route
Who says you have to use the centre aisle? Enter from the side, meet in the middle, or dance your way in.

Skip the walk entirely
Start already standing together at the front, ready to go.

The bottom line: there’s no one right way. Make it personal, and make it yours.

Photos by Leo Farrell via Jeremy & Ryan’s Modern Melbourne Wedding at Glasshaus Brücke

Choosing Your Aisle Song

The music sets the mood for your big moment. Some couples pick a song that means something to them, others go for a classic, or something completely unexpected. You could have live music, a favourite playlist, or even a string quartet. If you’re after ideas or help choosing, check out our post on aisle songs from real couples here or our post on unique instrumental song choices for your ceremony here.

What is the order of walking down the aisle at a wedding? 

Just like every other part of your ceremony, the order you walk down the aisle is entirely up to you. There’s no rulebook, but if you’re curious about the “traditional” way, here’s the usual line-up:

Traditionally, parents or special family members enter first, followed by Partner One, who takes their place at the top of the aisle. Next comes the wedding party, often bridesmaids, groomsmen, or chosen friends, sometimes walking in pairs or one by one. After that, you’ll usually see flower children, ring bearers, or page kids make their entrance, and finally, Partner Two walks in, often on the arm of a parent, both parents, or someone meaningful. Sticking to old-school tradition? Partner Two might walk on the right arm of their escort- originally so their father could draw his sword, just in case.

Who Stands At The Front?

Tradition usually has the couple at the front, sometimes with their wedding party lined up beside them. But you can mix this up too. Maybe you want family nearby, or to stand together with your kids, or just the two of you. Some couples even stand in a circle with their closest people.

The Aisle Logistics

Think about the space. Is your aisle wide enough for two people or just one? Do you want to walk slowly or make a quick entrance? Let your photographer and celebrant know your plan so they can set up the best view and sound. If you are walking in a group of three (perhaps with both parents), make sure your aisle is wide enough.

If your venue isn’t aisle-friendly, just create a path or gathering spot that works for you. If accessibility is a concern, chat to your venue and vendors ahead of time about ramps, surfaces, and any help you or your guests might need.

Photos by Leo Farrell via Jeremy & Ryan’s Modern Melbourne Wedding at Glasshaus Brücke

What If You’re Feeling Nervous?

Nerves are totally normal. If walking in front of everyone feels overwhelming, try these ideas:

Focus on your partner, not the crowd.

Take a few slow breaths before you walk.

Walk with someone who makes you feel calm, or walk together.

Choose music that soothes you or brings joy.

Or, skip the walk and just start together at the front.

Accessibility & Inclusion

Your ceremony entrance should feel welcoming for everyone. Consider physical accessibility for yourself and your guests, sensory needs (music volume, lighting), and ways to include everyone who matters to you – chosen family, kids, or anyone you want by your side. If a traditional walk feels daunting, adjust it to suit what feels best.

The Bottom Line

There’s no “right” way to arrive at your ceremony. The walk down the aisle can be as traditional, modern, or personal as you want. Whether you walk, dance, skip it, or make up something entirely new, the only rule is to do what feels honest for you and your story.