How Wide Should Your Aisle Be? Everything You Need to Consider
When planning your wedding ceremony, one of the key details that often gets overlooked is the width of your aisle. While there’s no universal standard, getting the size right is essential to ensure a smooth and beautiful walk to your partner.
The truth is, an aisle can never be too wide, but it can definitely be too narrow (and trust me, I’ve seen it happen far too often!). So, let’s go over the main things you should consider when determining the perfect aisle width for your big day.
1. Who Is Walking You Down the Aisle?
One of the first things to think about is how many people will be walking beside you. If you have two people escorting you, the aisle needs to be wide enough for all three of you to walk comfortably side by side. The last thing you want is for one of them to be forced to shuffle awkwardly behind you because the space is too tight.
2. Your Wedding Dress
If your dress has a full skirt, a long train, or dramatic details, consider discreetly widening the aisle to accommodate it. You don’t want your dress brushing against decorations or getting caught on anything along the way. A little extra space can make a huge difference, without giving away the surprise to your partner!
3. Decorations: Beauty vs. Practicality
Decor is a huge part of setting the scene for your ceremony, but some choices can affect how much aisle space you actually have. Here’s what to consider:
Meadow-Style Florals: These look breathtaking but take up more space than you might think. Ensure there’s enough room so they enhance your walk rather than ending up under your dress!
Candles: Some venues still allow real candles, but they can be risky. (I have more horror stories than I’d like to admit!) If you love the ambiance, LED candles or secure lanterns are safer options.
Petals on the Floor: While this looks gorgeous in styled shoots, in reality, petals scatter everywhere with the slightest breeze, especially outdoors. If you’re set on using them, consider an alternative like a floral-lined aisle runner.
4. Guest Accessibility
If you have guests who use wheelchairs or mobility aids, it’s important to plan their seating thoughtfully. Simply placing them at the end of a row might not always be practical, especially if their chair slightly protrudes into the aisle. Ensure they feel comfortable and included without worrying about blocking your path.
5. What’s the Ideal Width?
Since every venue is different, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. However, here’s my rule of thumb:
Standard aisle: 4-5 feet wide (best for solo walks or a slim-fitting dress)
Wider aisle: 6-7 feet (perfect for two people walking side by side)
Extra-wide aisle: 8+ feet (ideal for large dresses, multiple escorts, or grand floral arrangements)
Final Thoughts
You deserve a stress-free, picture-perfect walk down the aisle! While there’s no exact measurement that works for everyone, keeping these factors in mind will help you find the perfect balance between aesthetic and practicality.
At the end of the day, you should have the decorations you love—just make sure they don’t take away from your special moment. If you’re unsure how to plan the aisle width at your venue, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help make your dream ceremony a reality!
Need more wedding planning tips? Let’s chat!
Parris xx