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@red_seattle: We were also using that Catholic practice. DH found information on that and we both loved it for our own wedding Mass.

I adored my dad but he certainly wasn't there for me growing up (he left us and told us via letter - I didn't hear from him again until I was 17). Whilst I forgave him, my mum remained very bitter and the fact that he was even coming to my wedding and she had to face him after 18 years caused a lot of drama. I knew that it would hurt her too much for him to have a big part in my day.... especially one that required him to "give me away" when she felt he had given me away at age 12.

Add to that the fact that he was very abusive to DH the first (and only - prior to the wedding) time he met him (my dad was an alcoholic),it just didn't feel right having him "give me away" to DH.

There was one person that I did feel had the right to do that. My best male friend (who is married to my BFF!) has been there for me through thick and thin. He fended off stalky exes and bought me so many cocktails over the years I dread to think how much it cost! If anyone had the right to "give me away" it was him. So he walked me down the aisle.

My dad died six months later. I feel guilty some days that I didn't give him that opportunity. But I did have who I wanted on the day....

My mom and dad.

My dad

My dad walked me down the aisle!