The Processional

The ceremony begins with a processional of the wedding party. There are several different variations for the the processional. Usually, the elders of the family walk first. Following them are the groomsmen, best man and the groom who is escorted by his mother and father. The bridesmaids continue the processional followed by the maid/matron of honor. Finally the bride, escorted by her mother and father approaches the Chuppah.  

As the bride and her parents approach, they stop a few feet before the Chuppah. The groom standing under the Chuppah leaves to greet his bride. He takes her by the hand and escorts her to the Chuppah.  In the Jewish Tradition, the bride stands to the right side of her groom to symbolize full and equal partnership in the marriage.