Giving away of the bride without your Dad

My dad passed away in October of 2013. Since then, his best friend (who's always been a second dad to me) has really stepped up to make sure Mom and I have been taken care of.

The day I got engaged, I called him up and asked him to walk me down the aisle. Phone line went silent because he was crying. He didn't get the chance to walk his daughter down the aisle (she did a court house wedding without telling her parents). He and Dad we "brothers from different mothers" so I am ok with the idea of him speaking up for Dad and saying "I'm giving her away."
HOWEVER, this is a personal choice you need to make for yourself. Did they play a big enough role in your life to speak for your father? If yes, would you be ok with the person who is walking with you giving you away? If no, would you rather depart as music plays? Just a couple things to think on.

Welcome to the WeddingWire community, Katie

Jessie has proved some excellent points for you to think on. If you’re happy for this individual to speak on behalf of your Dad, then an exchange of words could happen, if you want. Otherwise, a handshake and smile works! It is a real personal decision that you have to make.

Have you decided who to ask to walk you down the aisle?

My brother is walking me down. My dad also passed away and my oldest brother stepped up and has always been my father figure.

My dad isn't saying anything when we get to the end of the aisle, just taking his spot next to my mom and then I will continue the 3 or so feet left by myself. At almost 40, I didn't feel I needed anyone to "give me away" but it was important to my family that he at least walk me down the aisle.

I am walking myself down the aisle.

No one has to say anything, if you don't want them to, or if it seems awkward. The person can escort you down the aisle, then just take a seat. Your FH can escort you down the aisle, as an alternative, or you can walk by yourself. I really wanted FH to walk with me, but my dad didn't get to give me away at my first wedding, so he's going to escort me this time (no "giving away" words, since it's a second wedding, anyway).

View Quoted Comment This is what we will do as well. I don’t believe in the “giving away” part because I am not owned by my dad and he also isn’t supportive of the wedding I am having or the career I’ve chosen.

Your person can walk you down the aisle then part ways once you reach the altar. There are some brides that buck tradition and skip the giving away part and that is totally fine.

Great advice from the PPs here Katie.

Have you decided who will walk you down the aisle? Or are you still thinking about it?

I'm so sorry you lost your dad. He would be so happy for you.

A friend of mine lost her mom as a kid and her dad 3 months before her wedding. Her big sister (and MOH) walked her down the aisle. They parted with a big hug and a little bit of tears; it was so sweet.