When does the groom enter the ceremony?

In a traditional UK wedding, the groom enters the ceremony room first, usually with his best man, and stands at the front, often on the right side. He waits there while the bridesmaids walk down, and then the bride enters, usually with her father or another loved one. This order is common but not required. Many couples now choose a different arrangement. Some have the groom walk in with his parents, or with both partners' parents. Others walk down the aisle together, side by side, to show that they are entering this new chapter as equals. Some couples have the groom enter after the bride, so the bride gets her own moment. The order of entry is something you can decide with your celebrant or registrar. They will usually guide you on the practicalities, such as where everyone stands and when to start the music. If you are having a religious ceremony, the place of worship may have its own customs, so check with them. The key is to plan the entrance so everyone knows where to go, and to choose an order that feels meaningful to you both.