It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for since you were a young child romping around the house in your mother’s finest dress and fanciest heels. You’ve envisioned, most likely even practiced your graceful cascade down the crisp white aisle runner towards your anxious partner waiting patiently for your hand. Within that magical vision you cling to your father’s arm for support while acknowledging the tearful look of pride in his eyes. So many moments have been played out in your head of what would make for the most memorable day and the possibility of anything being out of place seems unthinkable.
Speaking from first hand experience I can tell you that I never dreamed I’d walk down the aisle on my wedding day without my father by my side. I never dreamed that my mother wouldn’t be gushing over me all evening, straightening my dress, pinning my hair or dabbing the joyful tears from my eyes. Sadly, both my parents passed before I got married, so when my husband initially popped the question, as ecstatic as I was, I also felt a deep sense of lose and confusion.
My solo aisle walk, quickly became something more than I could have ever imagined. Although I wavered, gliding down the aisle alone didn’t feel right for me, so instead my walk became a graceful celebration of life. In honor of my parents memory I chose to have both my uncles from either side of the family give me away. I left two seats empty in the front row where flowers were placed by the wedding party as they walked by and a candle was lit during the ceremony to represent the light and love my parents bestowed upon me, which in turn I was bringing into my marriage. I had taken what could have been a very difficult moment and turned it into a bittersweet memory I’ll have forever.
As both a bride and a planner, I wanted to stress the importance of creating a day that encapsulates all your dreams. Whether you’ve lost your parents, are estranged from your father or would just prefer a non-traditional aisle walk, that’s up to you. On your special day embrace what’s most meaningful, be original, celebrate, rejoice and begin your journey as one, surrounded by love.