Recessional

The exit of the couple and wedding party at the end of a ceremony.

How it works in practice

The recessional reverses the processional, but it is faster, louder and less formal. The couple leaves first, usually to an upbeat piece of music, followed by the wedding party in pairs, then parents. The officiant often asks guests to stay seated until the party has exited, or gives directions to the cocktail area.

The planning work is mostly about what happens at the end of the aisle. Where does the couple go? Do they have two minutes alone before photos? Who signs the register, and when? Is anything thrown, and is it allowed?

How to handle it

1. Decide the exit order and write it down alongside the processional.
2. Pick a holding spot just past the exit, out of guest sight, where the couple can pause.
3. Confirm whether the signing happens before the recessional at the front, or privately afterward.
4. If anything is thrown or waved, get the venue to approve the exact material in writing.
5. Brief the photographer on the exit route so they can be at the end of the aisle, facing back.
6. Have an usher or the MC give guests clear directions to the next space.
7. Clear the aisle of petals or anything slippery before guests stand.

In Ontario and the GTA

Many GTA venues prohibit loose confetti, rice and glitter because of clean-up and slip risk, and some charge a cleaning fee. Biodegradable petals, bubbles or ribbon wands are commonly allowed, but it varies by venue, so ask. Sparkler exits are a fire question: open flame needs venue approval, and many indoor venues will refuse outright. Outdoor sparkler exits still need the venue to agree, a bucket of sand or water and a designated person to manage it.

Questions to ask

• What can guests throw or hold, and is there a cleaning charge?
• Where can the couple wait unseen for a few minutes?
• Is the cocktail space ready the moment the recessional ends?
• Who leads guests out, and in what order are rows released?

Related tools

Put the exit and the move to cocktails on the run of show template. If cocktail hour starts with roaming entertainment, have the performers in position before the recessional music starts, so guests walk straight into something.