Hey all,
So my dad is a ordained minister and has been or over 30 years. He was the officiant at both of my brothers weddings and I would like him to do that for my wedding too. I also want him to be able to fill the traditional roles of the father of the bride (walking me down the isle, giving me away, etc.) because I know that it's important to him (he also really wants to officiate the wedding). I'm wondering how he can do both without it being weird. I think it would be strange or him to give me away (which is a pretty powerful and symbolic gesture even if it is a little old-fashioned) and then to come back and be go-between for my fiance and I and God. Giving the bride away signifies the father stepping out of the daughter's life (as a caretaker and protector) I think it would be odd for him to do that but then step back in. So I have three ideas
1. Both of my parents walk me down the isle. My mom gives me away saying "Her Father and I" when asked who is giving the bride away. Pros: My dad still gets to walk me down the isle and officiate (plus my mom gets to be a part of the ceremony). Cons: He doesn't get to voice the giving me away part.
2. My dad walks me down the isle, gives me away, and still officates.
3. My dad walks me down the isle, gives me away, and we have someone else step in to officiate (not my favorite option, since we don't know many minsters who have a connection to both of us).
What do you all think? Any other ideas?