walking down the aisle

MicahAnn2009

My father isn't going to be able to walk me down the aisle (reasons I don't want to discuss) but I was just wondering how has other brides done it? Who walked you down the aisle other then your father and what did the person performing the ceremony say if they didn't say "who gives this woman away?" I have 4 nephews who are pretty close and I am thinking about asking them at this point to escort me because it is a really long walk and down a few steps so I don't really want to do it alone. I guess I just want to know how a ceremony works out when there isn't a father "giving away" a bride.THANKS!

ChickenArms

I'm walking down the aisle by myself. My officiant is aware and is simply taking that part out of the ceremony. I've been at other weddings where another family member walked the bride down the aisle (mom's mostly) and the question was asked just like it would if the dad was there. You do it how you want to do it.

mbcdefg

I've never heard the "Who gives this woman?" line at a wedding. Plus, you are nobody's property to be given away. The escort usually kisses the bride when they get up to the front and that's that ... sometimes I've heard, "Who supports this woman/couple in marriage?" and the parents will answer, "We do."I've seen a lot of brides who had their mother walk them down the aisle. Or a brother, uncle, grandpa, aunt, friend, grandma, etc. Anyone who's special to you may escort you. I think the nephew idea is a nice one, but honestly I think having all four escort you is going to look silly (and it'll be logistically hard to pull off well). I would personally just pick one of them. I've also seen brides walk alone. After all, you're an adult making the choice to get married, so it's very appropriate to walk by yourself. But I can sympathize with not wanting to do it alone. A lot of brides also walk in with their FI. This could be an option for you. I know that the Catholic Church actually encourages this option, because the two of you are entering into the marriage together. Your call!

clross01

My brother is walking me down the aisle because our father passed away several years ago. When the officiant ask who gives this bride away my mom we stand along me and say "the family and I". HTH

austinandstella

My dad died a few years ago as well.  I didn't really know what to either both because I have no male in my life that I feel close to besides my fiance  and because I don't feel like anyone can take his place. My mom suggested I ask my brother though so thats what I'm doing. I don't want to be alone either.  I think that the nephew idea is good if you are close to them. Maybe each one can walk you a certain number of steps or something? I think you should do whatever you are comfortable with though.  Plus the nephews don't have to answer the question. Your mom or someone else can do that still.    Congrats and good luck!

Catwoman708

You do not have to have anyone walk you down the aisle, and you can definitely leave out the "who gives this woman". A lot of brides find it a little offensive even. But if you don't want to walk by yourself, and have steps to go down, I'd pick a close male relative, who can present a strong, steady arm for you to lean on as you maneuver down the steps.

Sarahkay488

My dad died a few years ago too- My mom is giving me away. Doesn't have to be a male.

persphone

Perhaps you could walk halfway and have your FI meet you and walk the remainder together...

jwinhold

You can have anyone walk you down. I know I'm repeating people but I just wanted to reiterate that point. I was going to have both of my brothers walk me down but instead, my mother is. My father will not be at my wedding. You could also have anyone... a cousin, a friend, your maid of honor, a flower girl. You can walk hand-in-hand or arm & arm with anyone you choose to because this is who you wish to have walk with you down the aisle at your wedding.Who, if it isn't your father, has been the most supportive person, male OR female, in your life (that that includes your fiance)? Narrow it down to one, two or three people and then you'll know who should walk with you.

NIKKIL5

I lost my dad last year to cancer and I have 3 uncles that have helped my mom, my sister and I so much since then. I'm getting married next May and I plan on asking all three of them to walk me part of the way down the aisle (mine is a long walk also). Don't let people tell you it's "silly" to have more than one person walk you down the aisle. It's your choice and, if you're like me, you can't just pick ONE. We are working the logistics out with the wedding coordinators and I think my dad would approve of and love the idea of my uncles taking his place for this. It is your day and you can do this any way you think is appropriate. Nicole

jessicalawson07

My father passed away when I was 12, i'll be getting married in December and ill be walking part way solo and then my fiance is going to come get me.