Which is the bride's side and which is the groom's side?

Is this still a thing? Obvious not for same sex couples, but still

Question Asked: 10/12/2017

Wedding Date: 9/08/2018

Most Helpful Response

Debra Hodge - Wedding Celebrant

(0) · Far North Coast NSW and Gold Coast Region

Posted: 14/02/2018

Well, when I am asked this I usually suggest we ask the photographer which is the best light for the bride's photos. I have not had a groom object to this, they tend to have a little giggle and agree when we are at rehearsal. When asked about which side the family sit, I suggest that there will be no sides after today, so why not all sit where you are comfortable. Of course, the elderly or not so sure sighted, and hearing impaired need to be at the front for sure.

Answered by: 22 Experts

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Kaye Hartog

(2) · Adelaide and Surrounds

Posted: 7/02/2018

In civil weddings there is no right side, couples can choose where they stand.

TK Celebrancy

(6) · Gold Coast/Tweed Heads, Brisbane & Surroundings

Posted: 6/02/2018

From the rear of the venue the Bride's family usually sit on the left and Groom's family to the right.

Lisa Keevill

(4) · Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Southern Highlands & Surrounding Areas

Posted: 31/01/2018

Traditionally the groom and family are on the right side (if you are facing the front of the church/venue) and the bridal party and family are on the left side.  I like this idea, but I suggest to my couples to do what is best for them. Same sex couples it is all new - I look forward to embracing change and working it out together.

Tim Kelly - Cairns & Port Douglas Marriage Celebrant

(62) · Cairns, Port Douglas, Mission Beach and the Tablelands but I am prepared to travel nationally

Posted: 11/01/2018

To be honest? Whichever side you say it is. Let's face it. The bride goes to a lot of effort to look fabulous on the day, they take hours to prepare, whereas the groom, though well groomed, is usually ready in a fraction of the time. The bride's hair alone could be a deciding factor in which side she chooses to stand. So, my dear, it is entirely up to you and your groom will be happy to stand wherever you ask him too. The fact that he is standing in front of you is all that matters to him.

Marina Payne Celebrancy

(19) · Yarra Valley and all of Melbourne

Posted: 8/01/2018

Hello, If you are talking about where you stand during the Ceremony it is entirely up to the couple. Of late at rehersal I have been suggesting to the parents that they sit diagonally to where their child is standing so that they have a better view of the Ceremony. Good Luck.

Treasured Ceremonies

(18) · Byron Bay to Ballina , North Coast NSW and Gold Coast QLD

Posted: 29/12/2017

We dont take sides at a wedding - is my catch phrase at ceremonies I prefer to manage the guests and spread them on both sides to even out the seating.

Resonant Celebrancy Services

(0) · Perth and Surroundings

Posted: 27/12/2017

Traditionally the groom is to the right of his bride - but these days you can choose whatever side you like, or you may like to face each other and hold hands.

Kim O'Sullivan Celebrant

(15) · Wollongong, South Coast (as far as Nowra), Southern Highlands and Sydney

Posted: 12/12/2017

Traditionally, the bride's side is the left hand side and the groom's is the right hand side when walking up the "aisle" and standing at the front of the gathering. Guests follow that seating plan too. However, it really is up to you how you want it to work.  You do not have to have formal arrangements. Same sex couples can still do the traditional side or not if they want.

Robyn Freer Celebrant - Love My Way Celebrancy

(70) · Sydney & Surrounding areas

Posted: 12/12/2017

The older tradition of bride to the left and groom to the right has certainly relaxed.. particularly with outdoor venues where wind direction can be an issue!  I encourage couples to face their guests for the start of the ceremony (I stand to the side) then turn to face each other for the exchange of vows and rings. I also advise couples to stand on opposite side to their parents if they are present so they can see their faces clearly at the most special moments. I hope this helps :)

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