Wedding Recessional Variations and Sample Orders Explained | Vancity Officiant Wedding Guide
- Vancity Officiant Team
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
The recessional is the moment immediately following the legal conclusion of the ceremony. While it is often treated as an afterthought, it plays an important role in transitioning the atmosphere from intention to celebration. This guide outlines common recessional variations used in modern Vancouver weddings, helping couples understand what typically happens after they are pronounced married.
Traditional wedding recessional
This structure is familiar and works well for weddings with a full wedding party.
Newly married couple
Flower girl and ring bearer
Maid of Honor and Best Man
Bridesmaids and groomsmen as pairs
Bride’s parents
Groom’s parents
This order keeps the focus on the couple while allowing a smooth exit.
Couple-only recessional
A simple and elegant option.
Newly married couple exits together
Guests often follow naturally after the couple, without a formal order.
Recessional with pets
Many couples choose to include their pets at this joyful moment.
Newly married couple exits with their pet
Wedding party and family follow
This keeps the pet’s role brief and positive.
No formal recessional
Common in small indoor ceremonies and elopements.
Couple is pronounced married
Music plays
Guests remain seated or stand naturally as the couple shares a moment
The ceremony flows directly into mingling or celebration.
Outdoor or elopement-style recessional
Often relaxed and organic.
Couple exits in the same direction as guests, towards the photographer, or remains in place while guests gather around
This approach prioritizes atmosphere over structure.
Choosing what feels right
The recessional does not need to be elaborate to be meaningful. What matters most is that it reflects the tone you want to carry forward into the next part of your day.
As officiants, we guide timing and cues so your chosen recessional feels natural and unforced.
Further reading
If you would like to explore practical ceremony flow examples, you may also find these guides helpful:
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