Who walks down the aisle right before the bride?

There is no single legal or universal order. In many churches the officiant enters first and takes their place at the front. Then the bride walks down the aisle, often escorted by a parent or chosen person. Some couples place a reader or a flower child just ahead of the bride. Others have the best man and the bride's parent enter together, with the bride following.

For a civil ceremony, the registrar usually enters before the bridal party or waits at the front. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, celebrants may enter with the couple. Check with your officiant or place of worship for their usual pattern, and confirm it with the register office if you are unsure about legal requirements.

Whatever you choose, decide early and tell everyone in the order of service. Practise the walk so the person directly before the bride knows when to move and where to stand.