Ceremony
Processional
The walk down the aisle at the start of the ceremony, in a set order of wedding party and couple.
The processional is the entry order at the start of the ceremony. Traditional order: officiant, grandparents, parents of the partner being escorted, wedding party (paired), ring-bearer/flower-girl, and finally the couple — together or separately.
Many modern couples skip the traditional order, walk in together, or have parents walk both partners. Brief your processional order at the rehearsal and have the venue or coordinator cue music transitions.
Related terms
Recessional
The exit from the ceremony, with the couple leaving first followed by the wedding party in reverse pair order.
Wedding Party
The friends and family who stand with the couple at the ceremony — bridesmaids, groomsmen, attendants, and the maid/matron of honor and best man.
Officiant
The person who legally performs the marriage ceremony and signs the marriage license.