The How-To Guide to Aisle Runners

Q: Do I need to get an aisle runner for my wedding ceremony? Where would I get one from? What's the procedure for them?

A: Aisle runners are entirely optional.  In the olden days of unpaved roads, guests often tracked in dirt and mud from the streets.  Aisle runners were used to protect the bride's gown from the tracked in mud.  But today, this is no longer an issue. If your wedding is indoors, there is usually no need for an aisle runner beyond decorative purposes.  Some churches or synagogues may require an aisle runner if flower girls will be scattering flower petals on the floor.  Check the condition of your ceremony venue's floor to see if there are any spots that would be better covered up, making an aisle runner worthwhile. 

Keep in mind, aisle runners can be hazardous.  It's very easy to trip over the aisle runner if it's poorly secured or a spot gets bunched up as the processional makes its way down the aisle.  Also, cheap paper runners get torn very easily.  Cloth or carpet aisle runners are much more durable.  If your wedding is outdoors on soft ground, your heels will sink right through a cloth or plastic aisle runner, not to mention the hidden bumps and lumps that can make walking difficult.  Any aisle runners on grass should be backed with plywood or something solid.

As an alternative to an aisle runner for an outdoor wedding, consider lining the aisles with flower petals or creating flower petal designs down the aisle.

If you do opt for an aisle runner, you can usually get one from your florist, order one online, or get one from a rental company, like Classic Party Rentals.  You can even customize your runner with a monogram or design through Chicago-based Artistic Aisles, which offers handpainted cloth runners.

Now for aisle runner procedure:

Traditionally, only the wedding party walks on the aisle runner.  So, there are two options for properly using an aisle runner.

For the full article, click here.