Weddings are a joyous occasion where two people come together to celebrate their love. If you’re attending a wedding as a guest, you may be wondering where to sit and what to do. One of the most common questions is which side of the aisle to sit on – the bride’s or groom’s? In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the bride side at weddings.
What is the bride side?
Traditionally, the bride side is the left side of the aisle when you’re facing the altar or stage. This dates back to the days when the bride’s family paid for the wedding and sat on the left to keep an eye on their daughter and the groom. Today, the seating arrangement is more flexible, and guests are free to sit on whichever side they prefer. However, some couples still follow this tradition, and it’s always a good idea to ask the bride and groom for their preference.
Why sit on the bride side?
There’s no real significance to sitting on the bride side, but it’s a nice way to show your support for the bride and her family. If you’re a friend or relative of the bride, you may want to sit on her side to show your love and loyalty. It’s also a good idea to sit on the bride side if you don’t know the groom’s family very well.
Etiquette for the bride side
When you’re sitting on the bride side, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be respectful of the couple’s wishes and traditions. If they’ve asked you to sit on a particular side, it’s important to honor their request. Second, dress appropriately for the occasion. Weddings are usually formal or semi-formal events, so make sure you’re dressed in appropriate attire. Finally, be on time and don’t leave early. It’s rude to disrupt the ceremony by arriving late or leaving early.
What if I’m close to both families?
If you’re close to both the bride and groom’s families, it can be difficult to decide which side to sit on. In this case, it’s best to ask the couple for their preference. They may have a specific seating arrangement in mind, or they may be fine with you sitting wherever you’d like. If you’re still unsure, you can always sit in the middle or on the groom side.
Other wedding etiquette tips
In addition to knowing where to sit, there are a few other wedding etiquette tips to keep in mind. First, don’t bring uninvited guests. Weddings are expensive, and the couple has likely planned their guest list carefully. Second, don’t drink too much. While it’s fine to have a few drinks to celebrate, getting drunk and causing a scene is never appropriate. Finally, don’t be late for the ceremony or reception. It’s disrespectful to the couple and can disrupt the entire event.
Conclusion
Attending a wedding is a wonderful experience, and knowing where to sit can help you enjoy the event even more. Whether you’re sitting on the bride side or the groom side, remember to be respectful, dress appropriately, and follow the couple’s wishes. By doing so, you’ll show your love and support for the happy couple.
FAQ
What side of the aisle does the bride stand on?
Traditionally, the bride stands on the left side of the aisle when facing the altar or stage.
Can I sit on the groom side if I’m closer to his family?
Yes, it’s fine to sit on the groom side if you’re closer to his family. However, it’s always a good idea to ask the couple for their preference.
What should I wear to a wedding?
Weddings are usually formal or semi-formal events, so dress appropriately. Men should wear a suit or dress pants and a dress shirt, while women can wear a dress or a dressy pantsuit.
