Knowing where to stand for a wedding processional/recessional can be a little confusing and intimidating, so I’ve broken down the processional and recessional for a traditional Christian wedding in four easy steps. I hope this is clear for everyone. (And, hopefully not clear as mud!)
What to Know About the Wedding Ceremony Processional
- The Groom, Best Man and the Groomsmen will enter from the right of the ceremony location. Standing from the left is the groom, then the best man and then the remaining groomsmen. (Some grooms prefer to walk down the aisle too, so this step could be the groom, best man and officiant walking down the aisle with the groomsmen escorting the bridesmaids)
- The Bridesmaids walk down the aisle one behind the other. You start with the bridesmaid who will stand the farthest from the bride and groom — And the maid (or matron) of honor will walk down the aisle last.
- The Flower Girl(s) and the Ring Bearer can walk down the aisle together — OR — the flower girl(s) can walk in after the ring bearer walks down the aisle.
- The Bride will walk down the aisle with her Father. Her father will be on her right. If her mother walks in with her, she should stand to her left.
What to Know About the Wedding Ceremony Recessional
- The Bride and Groom will exit first. The groom will be on the bride’s left.
- The flower girl(s) and the ring bearer will exit next. Again, the ring bearer will be on the flower girl(s) left. If there is more than one flower girl, the ring bearer can exit before them.
- The Maid (or Matron) of Honor will exit with the Best Man on her left. Then the Bridesmaids will follow the Maid (or Matron) of Honor. The bridesmaids will be escorted by the groomsmen (the groomsmen will be standing to the bridesmaids left).
- The Bride’s Parents will exit next. The Groom’s Parents will exit last. If you want to include the grandparents, you can add them too. However, I find that grandparents prefer to take it slow and wait until everyone exits before they depart.
Remember to Make Your Wedding Ceremony Your Own
Please know that this is a guideline for a traditional Christian ceremony. Your wedding should be as unique as you are, so make your wedding ceremony (including your processional) your own.
The Baltimore Museum of Art Provides an Unforgettable Wedding Ceremony Backdrop
For couples who dream of saying “I do” surrounded by world-class art and timeless architecture, the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) offers an unforgettable wedding ceremony backdrop. This venue offers iconic event space nestled in the heart of Charm City, and it blends culture, elegance, and history, making it one of the most coveted wedding ceremony locations in Baltimore. Before you start envisioning your walk down the aisle in between the museum’s grand columns, here are five key things every couple should know when planning a wedding at the Baltimore Museum of Art.
1. The Setting of the BMA is Breathtaking, But Logistics Matter
From the moment guests arrive, the Baltimore Museum of Art makes a striking impression with its neoclassical architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds. Many couples host their wedding ceremonies in the museum’s Sculpture Garden, which offers a serene outdoor setting surrounded by lush greenery and stunning art installations.
The museum is also a public institution, so experienced wedding planners, like Howerton+Wooten Events, need to carefully coordinate the logistics for guest arrival, parking, and vendor load-in. Couples should work closely with the venue’s event team and their wedding planner to build a detailed timeline that accounts for all of these moving parts.
2. There Are Wedding Ceremony-Only Options and Full Wedding Event Options
The Baltimore Museum of Art offers flexibility depending on your vision. Some couples choose to host ceremony-only celebrations in the garden, while other couples plan full wedding experiences (ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception) inside the museum’s elegant spaces.
If you’re considering a ceremony-only option at the Baltimore Museum of Art, please keep in mind that you may be working within a limited time frame. Also, certain spaces in the museum may have restrictions. It all depends on the museum’s public hours. Securing your date early is key, as prime time slots go quickly.
3. There Are Important Rules In Place to Protect the Art at the Baltimore Museum of Art
As a cultural institution, the Baltimore Museum of Art has clear policies designed to preserve its collections and grounds. For example:
- Open flames (like candles) may be restricted or must be enclosed.
- Décor cannot be affixed to walls or artwork.
- Certain spaces may have noise or capacity limitations.
These rules aren’t meant to limit your creativity, they ensure the space remains beautiful for years to come. Your team at Howerton+Wooten Events can help you design a stunning ceremony that respects the venue’s guidelines while bringing your vision to life.
4. Weather Backups Are Essential to Your Wedding at the Baltimore Museum of Art
The Sculpture Garden is a spectacular place for a ceremony, but it’s still outdoors, and Baltimore weather can be unpredictable. Couples should plan for a solid rain backup option, whether that means tenting the space or moving the ceremony indoors.
The museum offers a few elegant indoor alternatives, but this space should be reserved well in advance. Don’t leave this detail until the last minute; your peace of mind will thank you.
5. A Wedding Planner with Venue Experience Makes a Huge Difference
The Baltimore Museum of Art is a one-of-a-kind venue that requires thoughtful coordination. From navigating museum rules to managing vendor access, having a wedding planner who knows the venue can save you time, stress, and potential headaches. The team at Howerton+Wooten Events has experience planning weddings at the Baltimore Museum of Art.
Experienced wedding planners can help elevate your ceremony design so that it complements the museum’s grandeur rather than competes with it. This is especially important for couples who want to create a luxurious yet seamless experience for their guests.
Final Thoughts about Your Wedding Ceremony at the Baltimore Museum of Art
A wedding ceremony at the Baltimore Museum of Art is nothing short of magical. With its rich history, architectural beauty, and artistic surroundings, it sets the stage for a celebration your guests will talk about for years.
By understanding the venue’s logistics, policies, and possibilities, and partnering with experienced wedding professionals, you can craft a wedding day that’s both elegant and effortless.
Are You Ready to Plan The Best Wedding Ever?
Are you ready to embark upon a great wedding planning experience? Please contact your wedding planning team at Howerton+Wooten Events. We specialize in beautiful weddings that are creative, authentic and immersive.
Love and Soul Always, Kawania
Photo: Michael Clarke Photographers
P.S. If you’re interested in booking me as a speaker or as a wedding industry expert, please click here to learn more. I have experience sharing my knowledge and expertise at live events, on podcasts, on TV segments, and in featured articles.