If your dad passed away, you aren’t close to him, or the tradition of being “given away” rubs you the wrong way, there are plenty of other ways to get yourself down the aisle! Read on for our top alternatives to having your dad walk you down the aisle.
1. Walk down the aisle with your mom. We love when brides are escorted down the aisle by their mamas! If your mom raised you or the two of you are extra close, it’s a wonderful way to honor her. You can also include grandma if she played a big role in your life. (My mom and grandma walked me down the aisle; it meant a lot to me, and to them!)
2. Walk down the aisle with both your parents. If you love your dad but don’t want your mom to feel excluded, have both parents walk you down the aisle. (Not sure where to put your arms? Link arms with one parent and have the other one place his or her hands on the front and back of your bicep.)

3. Walk with a grandpa, your stepdad, an uncle, or a brother. If your dad wasn’t present in your life but another man was, invite him to walk you down the aisle. We never fail to tear up when a bride walks down the aisle with her brother.

4. Walk with your sweetheart. If your venue has (or can be set up to have) two aisles along the sides of the room, you and your love can walk down at the same time and meet in the middle. (Hint: this works especially well if you can enter from the front of the room as opposed to the back.)

5. Have your dad roll you down the aisle.

6. Walk alone. If you’re a strong, independent woman, don’t hesitate to make the aisle trip solo!

7. Have your dog escort you down the aisle. Because we all know he’s really your rock of support.

—By Rachel W. Miller