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Ushers
If your wedding party exceeds 30 or 40 guests Ushers become invaluable. Their main function is the organisation of the guests at the church/wedding venue and at the reception.
The Bride and Groom should think carefully about their choice of Ushers. Traditionally the honour was given to the Bride's brothers and close relatives of the groom, however anyone can be chosen as long as they are organised and can handle the responsibility.
It's a good idea to use relatives and close family friends as this way most of the guests will be recognised and this will make the seating of the guests so much easier. Generally speaking 4 Ushers are chosen. 2 should stand near the pews on the side of family for which they are responsible while the others should place themselves at the entrance to the church to welcome guests as they arrive.
The Ushers have a number of functions to perform.
Before the Ceremony:
- The Ushers should meet with the bestman who will supply them with a seating plan and the service sheets that will be used during the ceremony.
- The Chief Usher is responsible for ensuring that the clergyman has the same service sheet as the congregation
- The Ushers should make sure that the guests are seated according to the seating list.
- Make sure that the guests are seated wisely, for example allowances should be made for elderly guests or those with disabilities or babies.
- Make sure that no guests find themselves in a situation where they are unable to see the altar.
- The Chief Usher should escort the Bride's mother to her seat.
During the Ceremony:
- Deal with any latecomers by getting them to their seats with the minimum of disturbance.
After the Ceremony:
- The Ushers should follow the bridesmaids in the recessional down the aisle
- They should make themselves useful outside the church as well. For example they could help the photographer get people together for the pictures and help the bestman making sure that all guests have transport to the reception.
At the Reception:
- Ushers may be able to help getting everyone to their correct seats at the reception venue.
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