Thanks, Daphne! Glad to help! Yes… I think it’s important to have that “before we get all serious” part so we can all feel a little more “ourselves” when the ceremony does start. It takes a lot of pressure off! Congrats to you!

Mark – yes this is a unique situation for parents who are officiating! 🙂 I wrote a blog about what to do in this case here (https://unboringwedding.com/top-10-wedding-officiating-questions-part-1/) because I get asked all the time. Here’s a snippet from that article. Cheers!

“When you’re the officiant and the parent also walking in, in the opening remarks before the ceremony you playfully tell the guests something like, ‘We’re going to get started in just a couple of minutes. But as Dad of the bride, I’m going to have to leave you now because I’m proudly escorting the bride down the aisle today. Are you ready to get these two married? Alright… see you in just a moment.’

You’ll most likely get a lighthearted cheer, and then you can exit at the side (Don’t go back up the centre aisle! No one does that until the recessional!). Head to the back or wherever everyone’s waiting for the music and the big entrance. Just coordinate with the DJ or band some sort of signal from the wedding planner that you’re all ready to start.”