The recessional is when the bride and groom walk back down the aisle to leave the ceremony, followed by the immediate members of the the wedding party.

The couple should brief the organist, musicians or music co-ordinator on what music they would like played during the recessional.

There is generally an atmosphere of great happiness and relief; the celebrations are about to begin and the couple are officially Mr and Mrs.

Traditional Order

The traditional order for the recessional is as follows:

bride and groom
followed by...
chief bridesmaid and best man
followed by...
mother of the bride and father of the groom
followed by...
father of the bride and mother of the groom
and finally...
the other bridesmaids, baby bridesmaids and pages

See The Role of the Parents

See The Best Man: Duties on the Day

See The Chief Bridesmaid: Duties on the Day

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