Jewish processional

Can any Jewish brides help me with this... I heard that in Jewish wedding both sets of parents walk their child down the aisle. Is this true? I think this would be wonderful for us to try too even though we're Catholic. I really don't like the idea of 'being given away' and don't want my father to walk me down the aisle. He would be devastated if I told him that. So I though this would be more meaningful.
What do you think?

Re: Jewish processional

Totally! In a Jewish wedding both your mother and father walk you down the aisle. In this day and age many people adopt customs from all different cultures. I think it is a great idea.

Re: Jewish processional

Yes-- I actually have the symbolism written down somewhere.. Let me find it and I'll post.

Here it is..

This is from the New Jewish Wedding.. I am paraphrasing from the book..

This comes from the custom where everyone in the town would accompany a bride to the chuppah-- this is basically the modern day version of the wedding party.. basically 'treating' the bride and groom like royalty- deserving a regal entourage.

The jewish custom of having both parents walk the bride down the aisle puts emphasis on parents leading their children- sons and daughters to marriage. This is meant to demonstrate that the marriage is the union of two families, not just two individuals, and acknowledge parents' dreams and efforts for their children's happiness.

That's basically it-- it is really nice sentiment I think.. and also very traditional if you really think about it.

Re: Jewish processional

Yes, the Jewish processional does have the parents walking down the aisle with their children. It depends entirely on what you want to do. You can either adopt the tradition into your own processional by just having both your parents walk you down the aisle, or you can have a full out Jewish processional. This was mine.

Chuppah Bearers
Rabbi and Cantor
Groom's Grandmother, escorted by Uncle
Groomsmen, one by one.
Best Man
Groom and Parents
Bridesmaids one by one
Maid of Honor
Matron of Honor
Flower Girl and Jr. Groomsman
Bride and parents.

Re: Jewish processional

As everyone already said, it is a traditional Jewish custom to have both parents walk the bride and groom down the aisle. I think it's a beautiful part of the ceremony, and feels much less like 'being given away' and more like having your families join together.

Re: Jewish processional

Yes, both parents walk down both kids, I couldn't do it any other way....I wouldn't want just my dad or just my mom...I think you should go for it, its a great idea!

Re: Jewish processional

Yup, that's what we're doing this Weekend

It will be our grandmothers first, then his parents and FH, then bm/gm/ then the best man, maid of honor and then me and my parents.

I'm so excited I can't wait!!!!!!!!!

Re: Jewish processional

Thanks guys! I think the symbolism is so beautiful and so much more meaningful to me. I think that is what we'll be doing!
My FH thinks it's a good idea too.

Re: Jewish processional

Do it, it's a wonderful idea...imediate family together for the last time before you start your own.