Marching Orders: A Guide to Processionals and Recessions in Weddings and Graduations

12/27/2024

Recessional order template


A great choice!

The Recessional Order Template is a useful tool for planning and organizing your thoughts when writing a recessional piece, which is typically an essay or speech that concludes a conference, meeting, or other event.

Here's a basic outline of the Recessional Order Template:

I. **Restate the thesis** (or main idea)
* Briefly summarize the key points you've made throughout the presentation
II. **Reiterate the importance**
* Emphasize why the topic is significant and how it relates to the audience
III. **Recap the key findings or takeaways**
* Summarize the main insights, conclusions, or action items discussed during the event
IV. **Reaffirm the call to action** (if applicable)
* Encourage the audience to take specific steps or consider certain perspectives
V. **Reflect on the journey or experience**
* Share personal anecdotes, lessons learned, or observations from the event
VI. **Resolve with a thought-provoking question or statement**
* Leave the audience with something to think about or a sense of inspiration

This template helps you wrap up your presentation in a clear and concise manner, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

Here's an example of what this template might look like in practice:

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**Recessive Order Template Example**

I. Restate the thesis: In conclusion, it's clear that our team has made significant progress in developing innovative solutions for environmental sustainability.

II. Reiterate the importance: This progress is crucial not only for our organization but also for the well-being of future generations and the planet as a whole.

III. Recap the key findings or takeaways: We've identified several best practices, from reducing waste to leveraging renewable energy sources. These insights will inform our strategy moving forward.

IV. Reaffirm the call to action (if applicable): I encourage each of you to share your own experiences and ideas with colleagues, inspiring a ripple effect that drives meaningful change.

V. Reflect on the journey or experience: As we look back on this event, I'm reminded of the power of collaboration and the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.

VI. Resolve with a thought-provoking question or statement: And so, let us continue to ask ourselves: What can we do today, tomorrow, and every day thereafter to create a more sustainable future?

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Remember to tailor your recessional order template to your specific needs and goals, and don't hesitate to modify it as you see fit.


Recessional order examples


Recessional orders are a type of poetic structure that involves a gradual increase in intensity or complexity, often followed by a conclusion or resolution. Here are some examples:

1. William Wordsworth's "Ode: Intimations of Immortality":
* The poem begins with a calm and reflective tone, describing the speaker's childhood experiences.
* As it progresses, the language becomes more vivid and expressive, exploring themes of mortality and the human condition.
* The final stanza returns to a sense of calm and resolution, reflecting on the impermanence of life.

Example:
"Though thy hopes be academic dreams,
Yet faith is in the heart's deep seat;
And though the voice of nature calls
To the still hour that we may share,
The silence of the evening air."

2. Emily Dickinson's "Because I Could Not Stop for Death":
* The poem begins with a quiet, introspective tone, describing the speaker's encounter with death.
* As it progresses, the language becomes more complex and metaphorical, exploring themes of mortality, eternity, and the afterlife.
* The final stanza returns to a sense of acceptance and resignation, reflecting on the inevitability of death.

Example:
"Because I could not stop for Death,
He kindly stopped for me;
The carriage held but just ourselves
And Immortality."

3. T.S. Eliot's "The Waste Land":
* The poem begins with a desolate and fragmented tone, describing a post-apocalyptic world.
* As it progresses, the language becomes more allusive and symbolic, exploring themes of disillusionment, spiritual decay, and the search for meaning.
* The final stanza returns to a sense of resolution and acceptance, reflecting on the cyclical nature of history and the possibility of renewal.

Example:
"These fragments I have shored against my ruins
Why should I orchestrate my pieces?
Here we go round the prickly pear
At five o'clock in the morning."

4. Sylvia Plath's "Lady Lazarus":
* The poem begins with a vivid and intense tone, describing the speaker's experiences of mental illness and trauma.
* As it progresses, the language becomes more surreal and apocalyptic, exploring themes of mortality, rebirth, and the search for meaning.
* The final stanza returns to a sense of defiance and hope, reflecting on the possibility of transformation and renewal.

Example:
"Arias / Explode into being.
Dying
Is an art like everything else."
"I do it so it feels like nothing
At all."

These examples demonstrate how recessional order can be used to create a sense of gradual build-up or complexity, followed by a conclusion or resolution. The poems explore themes of mortality, spirituality, and the human condition, using language that is often vivid, expressive, and symbolic.


Recessional order script


The Recessional Order Script!

In the context of a wedding, the Recessional is the moment when the newly married couple walks back down the aisle together for the first time as husband and wife. This can be a very emotional and memorable part of the ceremony.

A Recessional Order Script is a written plan that outlines the sequence of events during this moment. It typically includes:

1. Introduction: A brief introduction to set the scene, such as "The Bride and Groom will now recess down the aisle together..."
2. Music: The title or description of the music played during the recessional.
3. Timing: An estimated time for each part of the recessional, including the couple's walk back down the aisle, the presentation of gifts (if applicable), and any additional elements like a candle lighting ceremony.
4. Participants: A list of individuals involved in the recessional, such as the wedding party, parents, or other special guests.

Here's an example of what a Recessional Order Script might look like:

**Recessional Order Script**

**Introduction**
"The Bride and Groom will now recess down the aisle together, surrounded by love and happiness."

**Music**
"Canon in D Major"

**Timing**

* 3:45 PM: The newly married couple begins their walk back down the aisle
* 3:47 PM: Gifts are presented (if applicable)
* 3:50 PM: The recessional music ends

**Participants**

* The Bride and Groom
* Wedding Party:
+ Maid of Honor
+ Best Man
+ Bridesmaids
+ Groomsman
* Parents:
+ Bride's Mother
+ Groom's Father
+ Other special guests (if applicable)

This script serves as a helpful guide for the wedding party, officiant, and other involved individuals to ensure a smooth and memorable recessional.


Processional order


Processional order refers to the sequence of events and participants that occur during a procession, which is a formal march or movement of people, often accompanied by music or other performances. In the context of a wedding ceremony, the processional order typically follows a specific pattern:

1. **Officiant**: The officiant, who will be performing the ceremony, walks down the aisle first, usually to signal the start of the procession.
2. **Groom**: The groom and his attendants (best man, groomsmen) follow the officiant, often walking arm-in-arm or side-by-side.
3. **Bridesmaids**: The bridesmaids, accompanied by their escorts (groomsmen), follow the groom and his attendants.
4. **Flower Girl**: The flower girl, carrying a bouquet of flowers, walks down the aisle last among the bridal party.
5. **Bride**: Finally, the bride, often escorted by her father or another significant person (e.g., mother), makes her way down the aisle to meet her groom.

In some cases, additional participants may be included in the processional order, such as:

* Ring bearer: A young child carrying a ring pillow.
* Readers or ushers: Individuals who will participate in the ceremony by reading from scripture or performing other roles.
* Honorary attendants: Friends or family members of the couple who are not part of the bridal party but may be recognized during the processional.

The order and timing of these participants can vary depending on the specific wedding plans, cultural traditions, or personal preferences of the couple.


Recessional Wedding


A recessional wedding is a unique and beautiful way to end the ceremony and begin the reception. Here's what you need to know:

**What is a recessional?**
A recessional, also known as an exit processional, is the part of the wedding where the newlyweds, accompanied by their attendants (bridesmaids and groomsmen), make their way out of the ceremony location after the ceremony has concluded. This marks the official end of the ceremony and the beginning of the reception.

**Why have a recessional?**
A recessional is a great way to:

1. **Make a memorable exit**: Leave your ceremony location with style, creating an unforgettable moment for you, your guests, and your wedding party.
2. **Create a festive atmosphere**: Set the tone for the celebration ahead by making a grand entrance into the reception area.
3. **Allow guests to follow**: Provide an opportunity for your guests to easily find their way to the reception area, following the newlyweds and attendants.

**Tips for planning a recessional:**

1. **Choose a suitable exit route**: Ensure the exit route is clear, safe, and easy for guests to follow.
2. **Select a meaningful song**: Pick a song that holds special meaning for you both or one that reflects your personalities or relationship.
3. **Coordinate with your wedding party**: Make sure all attendants know the plan and are prepared to participate in the recessional.
4. **Consider timing**: Schedule the recessional at a time when the ceremony is likely to conclude, leaving enough time for guests to make their way to the reception area before the food and drinks are served.
5. **Add some flair**: Consider adding special touches, such as releasing doves or butterflies, having a live musician perform during the recessional, or incorporating candles or balloons into the exit.

**Incorporating a recessional into your wedding plan:**

1. **Discuss with your planner or coordinator**: Ensure that your wedding planner or coordinator is aware of your recessional plans and can help facilitate the logistics.
2. **Communicate with your vendors**: Inform your photographers, videographers, and other vendors about the recessional so they can capture the moment.
3. **Prepare your attendants**: Brief your attendants on the plan and make sure they're comfortable with the idea of participating in the recessional.

Remember to stay relaxed and enjoy the moment! A recessional is a unique way to end your ceremony and start your reception, making it a cherished memory for you and your guests.


Recessional Wedding Songs


The recessional wedding song is the final musical farewell as the newlyweds exit the ceremony location, marking the end of the wedding celebration. Here are some popular recessional wedding songs:

1. **"Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles**: A classic choice with a bright and uplifting vibe.
2. **"I Choose You" by Sara Bareilles**: A sweet and sentimental song about choosing your partner every day.
3. **"Love Shack" by The B-52's**: A fun, upbeat track to get the party started (or in this case, ended).
4. **"Marry Me" by Train**: A romantic ballad that's perfect for a couple's special moment.
5. **"All of Me" by John Legend**: A beautiful song about embracing each other's imperfections and quirks.
6. **"Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield**: A hopeful and inspiring track that celebrates the start of their new life together.
7. **"Perfect Day" by Hoku**: A cheerful and carefree song to match the joy and excitement of the day.
8. **"Landslide" by Fleetwood Mac**: A classic choice with a nostalgic feel, perfect for a more subdued recessional exit.
9. **"At Last" by Etta James**: A soulful and heartfelt song that's sure to bring tears of joy to everyone's eyes.
10. **"A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri**: A popular choice from the Twilight soundtrack, with a romantic and sentimental vibe.

Remember to choose a recessional song that reflects your personal style and wedding theme. You can also consider traditional wedding march songs or modern instrumental pieces if you prefer something more classical.


Processional vs recessional wedding


In a traditional wedding ceremony, the processional and recessional are two important parts of the service.

**Processional:**
The processional is the part of the ceremony where the wedding party walks down the aisle to take their places at the altar. It's usually led by the officiant or maid of honor, followed by the bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl(s), and ring bearer. The bride then walks down the aisle last, accompanied by her father or escort.

The processional is a formal march, often accompanied by music, which sets the tone for the rest of the ceremony. It's an opportunity for the wedding party to make their entrance and take their places before the ceremony begins.

**Recessional:**
After the ceremony has ended and the couple has exchanged vows and rings, it's time for the recessional! This is when the wedding party walks back down the aisle, often in reverse order of how they entered. The bride and groom lead the way, followed by their attendants, then the officiant.

The recessional is a celebratory exit, usually marked with music and applause from the guests. It's an opportunity for the newlyweds to make one final appearance together as husband and wife before departing the ceremony location.

Some couples choose to add their own personal touches to the processional or recessional, such as special songs, candles, or even a sparkler sendoff!

In terms of etiquette, it's generally considered proper protocol to:

* The wedding party walks in order of importance (officiant, bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl/ring bearer, and finally, the bride).
* The recessional follows the same order in reverse.
* The bride and groom should exit the ceremony location together, arm in arm or holding hands.

Remember, while tradition is important, ultimately, it's up to the couple to decide how they want to make their grand entrances (and exits!) on their special day!


Processional and Recessional graduation


A tradition that's often overlooked, but still a significant part of the graduation ceremony!

**Processional:**
The processional is the grand entrance of the graduates, faculty members, and sometimes even special guests. It usually takes place at the beginning of the ceremony. The procession typically involves:

1. Faculty: Professors, deans, and other academic leaders enter the stage or auditorium in a specific order, often with the most senior individuals leading the way.
2. Graduates: The graduates, accompanied by their families, friends, and sometimes school administrators, make their way to their seats. This is often done in alphabetical order or according to the student's major or program.
3. Special guests: Honorary degree recipients, distinguished alumni, or other notable figures may also participate in the processional.

The processional serves as a visual representation of the graduates' accomplishments and marks the beginning of the ceremony. It sets the tone for the event and provides an opportunity for everyone involved to take their seats and prepare for the proceedings.

**Recessional:**
After the ceremony has concluded, the recessional is the grand exit of the same individuals who entered during the processional. This typically takes place at the end of the ceremony:

1. Faculty: Professors and other academic leaders depart the stage or auditorium in reverse order of their entry.
2. Graduates: The graduates, accompanied by their families, friends, and school administrators, make their way offstage or out of the auditorium, often with a final farewell to their fellow students and educators.
3. Special guests: Honorary degree recipients, distinguished alumni, or other notable figures may also participate in the recessional.

The recessional marks the end of the ceremony and provides a dignified conclusion to the proceedings. It serves as a final acknowledgement of the graduates' achievements and allows everyone involved to disperse and celebrate this significant milestone.

Both the processional and recessional are important aspects of the graduation ceremony, as they provide structure, tradition, and a sense of closure for all participants.