How to Handle Crowd Control as a Wedding Usher

A wedding usher's ultimate responsibility is to help the groom. One of his many varied tasks is to effectively handle crowd control and make sure the special day runs as smoothly as possible for the groom and his bride.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Meet with the other ushers in the wedding party at the venue some time before the ceremony and reception. Memorize the layout of the venue so that you can direct guests to washrooms, parking or bus stations as necessary.
2. Know how the bride and groom would like their guests seated at the ceremony so that you can properly direct them to their seats. Traditionally the groom's family and friends sit on the right side, and the bride's family and friends sit on the left. But not everyone follows this tradition.
3. Arrive at the ceremony location 45 minutes to one hour before the wedding starts so that you can guide those who arrive early to their seats and prevent congestion.
4. Escort guests out of the ceremony venue after the ceremony is completed. Direct the guests row by row beginning with the front pews and working your way back.
5. Be aware of the seating arrangement at the reception. That way you'll be able to guide guests to their seats and prevent crowds of confused people making it difficult to move around.
6. Tell only those seated closest to the dinner area that the buffet is open during a buffet reception. When the lines get shorter, move on to the next group closest to the table. Do this only after the bridal couple, party and family receive their food.
7. Flash lights about 15 minutes before the beginning of a sit-down meal at the wedding reception to give guests enough time to get seated.

Tips & Warnings

• Open all usable exits at the wedding ceremony venue and usher guests through specific exits to clear the building faster.
• Be polite and courteous, but always speak loudly with authority and make decisive hand movements.