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An aisle runner, a long piece of fabric used to line the path a bride walks to reach her awaiting groom. A sometimes forgotten aspect of the wedding ceremony, the aisle runner is something of an add-on that couples usually rush to arrange just prior to the wedding.
Lately, however, all that has changed and wedding aisle runners are becoming an important focal point the is not only noticed but fussed over.
Why do we even use aisle runners? Well, way back in the day, folks didn’t have cement and asphalt to walk on and all the roads, streets, sidewalks and even indoor flooring was dirt. During a wedding, a cloth would be placed in front of the bride so that her dress wouldn’t get soiled as she walked toward the altar.
Later, this simple cloth started to take on a more decorative importance. Since walking on dirt is no longer an issue (unless you are having an outdoor wedding), aisle runners remained an integral part of the ceremony but without the need for it to be functional. Now, it is simply decorative.
When deciding on what type of aisle runner to use, you have your choice of renting one in the simple and traditional white or ivory fabric or you can pick a colour that matches your wedding’s overall theme. In many cases, couples choose to buy their own runner and have it embroidered with their names, initials, or favourite verse.
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There really are no rules when it comes to aisle runners except that it be long enough to accomodate the bride’s journey from a few feet behind the pews or seats to the altar. It should also be wide enough to accomodate two people standing side by side.
A word of advice on the use of aisle runners for your ceremony. Make sure that someone responsible is in charge of setting it up before the ceremony and that they remove and safely store it afterwards. This is especially important when renting your runner as you don’t want to pay for a missing item. Also, if you do rent a runner, always be clear on any damage or replacements costs, just in case.
Last but not least, choose your runner’s fabric wisely. In general, they are made of polyester or vinyl. You can always choose a fancier fabric like silk or satin but be advised that the sturdier the fabric, the better, especially for outdoor events or for rough surfaces. Remember that it must withstand heels walking on it. If you are standing and walking on soft surfaces, your heels will dig right through a delicate fabric and ruin your runner.
An aisle runner is an important part of your wedding day. It will enhance the bride’s appearance as she makes her all important walk down the aisle when all eyes are solely on her. Not having a runner can distract from the brides appearance if the flooring is substandard or boldly coloured. Realistically, it is a small part of the wedding’s overall budget but going without it will be noticed and you don’t want people noticing what you didn’t have at your wedding just what you did have…..
