Are you planning a wedding in beautiful Italy and wondering how the procession into the church works? Who comes first, who comes last—and where do the guests sit? Don't stress—here you can find out step by step what a typical church wedding in Italy looks like. Of course, there are always slight variations, but this guide shows you the traditional order as it is usually practiced in Italy. Perfect if you are a German guest or bride and groom planning to get married in Italy.
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Camilla Poesio Events
Who arrives when? The entrance at a church wedding in Italy
The procedure for a church wedding in Italy can raise many questions – here I explain step by step how everything traditionally works.
The magical moment of the entrance – your walk down the aisle
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Entrance at the wedding ceremony: The procedure does not only apply in church
Of course, this sequence does not necessarily have to take place in a church. Even for a symbolic ceremony in Italy – for example, in the garden of a villa, on the beach, or at a romantic vineyard – this processional order can be wonderfully applied. The structure gives the moment a ceremonial touch, creates emotional highlights, and helps everyone involved feel confident. A symbolic ceremony is often even more personal and flexible – which is why having a clear sequence is all the more helpful.
Arriving in style – who will be there first?
For a traditional church wedding in Italy, good planning is everything – especially when it comes to the processional and timing. Typically, the groom, his parents, and the bride’s parents arrive at the church about 30 minutes before the ceremony begins. Why so early? So they can greet the guests and essentially take on the role of hosts.
Where are the guests seated?
The guests slowly arrive—many like to come early to look at the church, take photos, or simply sit down and relax. The seating arrangement is not strict, but there is a small rule of thumb:
The bride's guests sit on the left.
The groom's guests sit on the right.
Guests who are friends with both sides are of course free to choose where they sit.
The front rows are reserved for the closest family members—grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles. Friends, colleagues, and acquaintances sit further back.
The big moment is approaching: Music & preparation for the entrance
About ten minutes before the ceremony begins, the excitement builds: the wedding planner gives the signal for the music to start. Usually, a classical or romantic piece of music is chosen to perfectly accompany the moment. From here, the official part begins—everyone takes their seats, and the tension rises.
Moving in – step by step
Now comes the ceremonial entrance. The order is important and looks beautiful when thoughtfully planned. Here is the traditional sequence for a church wedding in Italy or a symbolic ceremony.
1. The officiant
The officiant or priest enters first and takes their place in the center in front of the altar. They wait there for the couple and the guests who follow.
2. The parents of the bride and groom
Next, the parents of the bride and groom enter the aisle. In Italy it is customary that:
The bride’s mother enters with the groom’s father
or depending on the family situationThe groom’s father enters with a female relative
The bride’s mother enters with a male relative
They walk slowly, gracefully and to the music down the aisle before taking their places in the front row on the appropriate side.
3. The groom’s witnesses
Now the groom’s witnesses enter. They usually walk in individually, though in some cases it is also lovely when they enter as pairs with the bride’s bridesmaids.
4. The bride’s bridesmaids
Right after that, the bride’s bridesmaids walk down the aisle. They also walk slowly to the music and take their seats on the front left side.
5. The groom
Now the moment becomes more serious. The groom enters the church, usually accompanied by his mother, walking on her right side. They walk together to the altar, where the groom then positions himself on the right side.
The mother takes her seat in the first row and the groom now waits excitedly for his great love.
6. More flexible variations
Some couples choose not to follow the strict order. It is possible for the witnesses to position themselves directly at the front instead of entering individually or in pairs. The only important rule is that the groom always comes after the witnesses.
7. The bride’s grand entrance
Now it is finally time. The music changes, the wedding planner gives the sign and the special entrance music for the bride begins. Goosebumps guaranteed.
The preparation outside
The bride waits outside, usually with her maid of honor, the wedding planner and of course her father. The maid of honor helps with the dress, adjusts the veil or train and ensures that everything is perfect.
8. Flower children and ring bearers
Before the bride enters, the flower children or ring bearers walk in. These little stars of the ceremony carry flowers, baskets or pillows. All guests melt away. They walk down the aisle and prepare the way for the bride.
9. The bride accompanied by her father
And then the bride enters. She walks on the right side of her father into the church or to the ceremony space. Slowly, thoughtfully and not too fast. This moment is magical and the highlight of many dreams.
What should she keep in mind
Walk slowly and without rushing.
Keep her head up and look forward, preferably toward the groom.
Occasionally a small smile to the left or right is lovely, a silent greeting to guests.
The bouquet is held at belly height, not too low and not too high.
She walks in time with the music, not faster or slower.
Arriving at the altar
When the bride and her father reach the altar, the father pauses for a moment. Then comes an emotional moment.
He may give his daughter a kiss on the forehead.
If she is wearing a veil, he only makes a small gesture so that the make up stays perfect.
He then takes his seat, usually next to the bride’s mother.
The bride takes her place next to the groom and the ceremony can begin.
Conclusion: The perfect entrance for your church or symbolic wedding in Italy
The entrance to a church wedding in Italy (or to a non-religious ceremony) is a beautiful and symbolic part of the wedding day. Even though there are set procedures, there is still room for individuality. It is important that everyone involved knows when it is their turn—and that everything fits with the music and mood.
Whether you enter with many witnesses, prefer a classic or a more relaxed style—with good organization, an experienced wedding planner, and a clear schedule, this moment will be unforgettable.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do you have to follow the order exactly?
No, but it's a nice tradition. You can also easily adapt the sequence.
What happens if there are no flower children?
No problem—then the procession simply begins with the music for the bride.
Where do guests with disabilities or special needs sit?
These seats should be reserved in advance and easily accessible – ideally in the front rows.
What music is suitable for the bride's entrance?
From classical organ music to modern love songs – anything you like is allowed.
Tip: Practice the entrance during the dress rehearsal – especially with children or nervous relatives. This will ensure that everything runs smoothly on the wedding day.
With this schedule, you will be perfectly prepared for your wedding in Italy. If you have any questions or need help with planning, feel free to write to me – I will accompany you with heart and experience to your dream wedding in bella Italia!
Professional assistance: I will plan your dream wedding in Italy
Your wedding should not only be beautiful—it should be unforgettable. As an experienced wedding planner in Italy, I will accompany you with heart, organizational talent, and a network of reliable local partners. I will transform your ideas into a unique day full of emotion, style, and Italian ease. So that you can concentrate on what's most important: your love.
