How Should We Greet Each
Other at the End of the Aisle? A Registrar’s Advice for Civil Ceremonies
As a UK Civil Wedding
Registrar, one of the most common questions I get asked by couples is: “How
should we greet each other at the end of the aisle?”
It’s a lovely question, and
the answer is simple: there’s no right or wrong way. This moment belongs
to you both so let it feel natural and heartfelt.
Make It Personal
Your wedding ceremony should
feel like a reflection of your relationship. That first moment when you reach
each other at the end of the aisle is one of the most emotional parts of the
day. Whether you’ve walked in together, or one of you has been accompanied down
the aisle, how you greet each other is entirely up to you.
I always reassure my couples:
this is not a military parade! There’s no need to stand stiffly with a
formal posture and a polite smile. If it feels right to hug, kiss, squeeze
hands or whisper something lovely, then that’s what you should do. I often
gently encourage couples to stand close together after all, you’re
getting married!
It's Okay to Speak
Many couples ask whether they
need to remain silent at this point. My answer? Not at all! It’s a
beautiful time to quietly tell your partner how stunning, handsome, or just
downright amazing they look. That spontaneous smile or whispered “wow” often
becomes a treasured memory.
If You’re Being Accompanied
Down the Aisle...
Whether it’s a parent,
sibling or a close friend walking with you, I suggest taking a brief moment
before they take their seat. A hug, handshake or warm smile shared with your
partner-to-be is a lovely, respectful gesture and sets a beautiful tone for
the ceremony.
Holding Hands or Standing
Naturally
At the beginning of a UK
civil wedding ceremony, the couple typically stands facing the registrar.
During this part, feel free to hold hands, link arms, or simply stand side
by side whatever feels most natural for you both.
Later, when it’s time for
your vows, promises or contracting words, you’ll be invited to turn and
face each other, taking one another by both hands. This is a beautiful moment,
and your registrar will guide you smoothly through it.
What About the Bouquet?
If you're carrying a bouquet,
you’ve got a few options. I usually say to brides (or anyone holding flowers),
you can either:
- Hold onto your bouquet until the vows section. I’ll happily take
your flowers at that point and place them on the registrar’s table.
- Or, if you’d prefer to have hands free
earlier, pass your bouquet to a bridesmaid, a guest in the front row,
or to me just before the ceremony starts.
Again, there’s no rule just
do what feels right for you.
Final Thoughts
At the heart of every
ceremony is one truth: it’s your day, your way. Don’t worry about what’s
“correct” or “expected.” As a registrar, I’ll always guide and support you
through every step, helping things flow smoothly and making sure you feel
relaxed and at ease.
So whether you choose a
tearful hug, a giggle and a kiss, or a hand squeeze with a whispered “let’s do
this” know that it’s the perfect way to start your ceremony.
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