Time to do the job
An usher’s duties on the wedding day
It's a good idea for all the ushers to meet at the venue some time before the ceremony, well before the arrival of any early guests. Here, you can collect the buttonholes and service sheets, synchronise watches and discuss any other relevant issues. While you are welcoming guests, for instance, you may be asked to pass on information, such as whether flash photography or the throwing of confetti is allowed in or near the venue. Bring an umbrella too, in case you need to escort guests to and from their transport in the rain.
During the ceremony
Make sure you recognise the 'key players' at the wedding -- especially the parents. Having ushers from the bride's side as well as the grooms will greatly help here, as well as contributing in a practical way to the symbolic union of two families, which a wedding represents.
Ideally, you'll have a seating-plan for the front rows (from the best man) and be briefed about any family friction that may need to be negotiated. If there's a chief usher, he will delegate the other tasks, such as giving out service sheets. At least one of you will stand at the foot of the venue to ask guests on which side they are to sit (don't forget: it's groom's friends and family on the right, bride's on the left).
Another usher will position himself halfway down the aisle to guide people into their seats. This is easier said than done -- you'll be trying to get guests with babies into the aisle seats and directing tall people and/or those with large hats to places where they won't be obscuring other people's view!
The chief usher will be posted at the church door to escort the bride's mother to her seat on arrival at the church. She should be the last to take her seat before the entrance of the bridal party. Be aware of any elderly or disabled guests who could use some help too. At least one usher should stay at the back during the service, to welcome latecomers and discreetly guide them to a spare space.
Ushers, with the help of the bridesmaids, may also help to look after any other attendants such as flower-girls and page boys. Make sure someone they know is seated close to them in the front of the church.
When it ends
Outside the wedding venue, you may be asked to find specific guests for the photographer's pictures, or -- more likely -- to help organise transport for the guests from the wedding venue to the reception. After that, you can start to relax a little, though if jobs need doing, be ready to lend a hand --perhaps to help with the efficient flow of food and drink.
