10 Modern Ways to Walk Down the Aisle at Your Wedding

With Your Mother

If you’re closer to your mother, there’s no reason she can’t be the one to walk you down the aisle. By designating your mom as your escort, you'll be able to focus the spotlight on the influence she's had on your life. This is also a great option for brides who don’t have a father in the picture, either due to divorce, death, or other extenuating circumstances.

With Both Parents

Take a cue from the Jewish tradition by having both of your parents take you by the arms as you process to your favorite song. In the tradition, the bride’s father is on her right and mother on her left as they walk toward the chuppah. You can swap the sides, but it’s a heartfelt way to include both of your parents in your wedding ceremony.

With Your Stepfather

Plenty of stepfathers have escorted brides down the aisle, especially when the two have a close-knit relationship. If your stepfather is your main father figure, then odds are you're going to want to include him in the ceremony anyway. Guests will see how much he means to you and you’ll have the quintessential father-daughter moment.

To a Nontraditional Song

Your wedding march song can be a reflection of your personality, your relationship, or even your culture. "Be sure to use music to create personal and deeply meaningful moments on your wedding day," says Jackson. She recounts one wedding where the bride had "ceremony music from Sierra Leone played on the kora, a 21 stringed instrument known in West Africa," to reflect her heritage.

Kuusik adds, "I think choosing your favorite song or one that both you and your partner love is totally acceptable. It should have a steady cadence and something you feel really comfortable walking to with small, momentary pauses in between strides so that your photographer can capture the special moment."

With Your Father and Stepfather

Many brides feel their stepfather is just as endearing to them as their biological father, so it’s a super sweet sentiment to be accompanied by the two major men in your life. Propose that both of your “fathers” do the honor. If for some reason they aren’t on good terms, consider having a heartfelt conversation with each of them before the big day to check on their comfort level.

With Your Uncle or Uncles

In Hindu tradition, brides enter the wedding ceremony alongside their maternal uncles. Often, they are carried in by the uncles on a doli, or small carriage decorated in florals. You don’t need the entire pomp and circumstance, but asking your uncle to do the honor is perfectly acceptable in any tradition.

With Different Loved Ones

The options are endless when it comes to asking any of your loved ones to be your escort on your big day. Make it meaningful by choosing a person you are particularly devoted to, whether it’s a sibling, lifelong friend, or an individual who has helped you through challenging times—it makes the moment that much more special. "I witnessed a bride who walked down with her niece who was also her flower girl so she threw flower petals while walking with her—it was lovely," Kuusik says. 

With Your Pet

If you consider your pup a member of the family, why not have them escort you down the aisle? The wedding photos will be beyond adorable, and having your furry friend by your side might be just the thing to calm any lingering nerves.

"I would encourage you to check with the venue (if the wedding is at a venue) to make sure pets are allowed because some don't allow them or need them to leave as soon as food service begins," Kuusik says. "I also would encourage practicing walking with your pet ahead of time and making sure he/she doesn't sprint down the aisle pulling you or jump up on your beautiful dress."

Halfway by Yourself

Meghan Markle set the tone when she walked down the aisle of St. George's Chapel in Windsor Castle alone for half her walk toward Prince Harry. By meeting an escort at the 50-yard-line, you'll be able to show off your independence while still honoring an age-old tradition. If you want to make a bold statement, we can't think of a more memorable entrance.

Alone

Who says you need an escort at all? In modern times, plenty of women have survived for years without a partner or parent helping their every step. Showcase your autonomy and self-reliance by making a grand entrance sans escort. Talk about the ultimate statement.