Does the bride's mother or groom's mother walk down the aisle first?

There is no law or religious rule about which mother walks first. It is simply tradition that the bride's mother is escorted down the aisle first, usually just before the wedding party. The groom's mother follows, often taking her seat just before the ceremony begins.

Many couples today prefer to mix things up. Perhaps both mothers walk together, or you might walk them down in an order that reflects your family's story. If your parents are divorced, or if you have step-parents, you can choose who walks with whom. What matters most is that everyone feels included and happy.

Here are a few options to consider:

• Walk the bride's mother first, then the groom's mother, in the traditional style.
• Walk both mothers down together as a pair.
• Have each mother escorted by a different family member, like a son or a grandparent.
• Skip the aisle walk entirely and have the mothers already seated.

Talk it over with your parents before the big day. A quiet chat can prevent any awkwardness and make sure the moment feels right for everyone involved.