Wedding planning: I don't want to walk down the isle! What are my options?

Question

Ok, we are considering either a small wedding or just going to the jp's office in tshirts and jeans. Either way, we'll be happy. My only problem with the wedding is that I don't want to "walk down the isle" while they play music and everyone looks at me all teary eyed and smiling...ick. I hate being the center of attention and I would love to skip this part all together. What are my options as far as putting together a decent wedding where we can take our vows without me having to take the slow, embarrassing walk down the aisle?

Answer 1

Just like the groom is at the altar before the ceremony starts you could be, too.

When the processional music stops your officiant would then start the ceremony.

Best of luck and congratulations.

Answer 2

I felt exactly the same way.  I HATE being the center of attention!  We are having a casual ceremony and reception at our house.  I decided to just do the walk anyway.  I know its something my dad has probably been looking forward to all my life and I didn't want to take that away from him.

Our ceremony is going to be quick, like 10-15 minutes, so we are only setting up chairs for the older people and having everyone else kinda gather around.  I think that laid-back atmosphere will make me feel better.  Maybe you could do something like that?

Answer 3

It's YOUR wedding.  You get to do it any way that you want.  If you go to a JP you won't be walking down an aisle.  If you have a Church Ceremony, Just discuss with your clergyman that you don't really like the traditional Bridal March and you'd rather just walk out from the front of the Church.  If you plan a ceremony at some other venue, it's YOURS and you can do it anyway that you like.  

Answer 4

We are not having any attendants.  After some discussion, we are walking each other down the aisle.  I totally object to the whole 'giving the bride away thing' since it was originally because you were owned by your father and basically sold for your bride price. It also eliminates the need for a bouquet as well. I was quoted $70 for a simple bouquet that is used for 45 minutes, then toast. Instead, we will use the money to buy a lovely vase of flowers at our 'reception site' (our home).

Answer 5

You don't have to. Just come in from the side at the front.

Answer 6

You could skip the entrance... or you can walk in together, holding hands... You will have all the support you need right beside you and both can share that moment

Answer 7

This is a tradition, not a requirement.  Think about what you would like, then do it. You and your husband could enter together at a normal pace, you could enter like the minister does, from the side or whatever. If you go to the JoP it's not an issue (we did this and we all stood at the front together the whole time). Your wedding shouldn't feel like torture. Do whatever makes you comfortable.

Answer 8

Have an officiant service where you and your husband to be will already be standing at the alter.  Maybe you could come in from the side or already be standing there.

Best wishes to you.

Answer 9

Why not just elope and have a big party to celebrate after with friends and family?  This is your day and if you don't want a big fancy church wedding and walking down the aisle etc, then don't, but make sure whatever you do you won't regret it later!

Answer 10

have everyone assemble in another room.  you and the groom meet at the altar, maybe a photo or two before the ceremony starts.  Then let the guests enter and sit.

Answer 11

Well, you have to get to the altar somehow.  You could enter with your groom and both of you walk down the aisle.  You could enter from the side, like the officiant.  Or you could come in just like everyone else and just be sitting in the front row until everyone gets there and you are ready to begin.  Then all you have to do is stand up.

Answer 12

Pick a short isle & walk down the isle with your fiance, you alone will not be the center of attention and being together will make you feel more comfortable.