[Blindtlk] Walking down the aisle

[Arielle Silverman]

Hi all,

I don't normally post on this list, but have a question that I think
this list would be the best place to ask.
I am getting married in two weeks and am just curious to talk to other
blind brides about how you went down the aisle and whether you used a
cane, sighted guide or both? (I don't have a guide dog so that's not
an option).

Our wedding will be outside, so the "aisle" is actually just a set of
steps leading down to a creek. I will be walking with my parents (as
part of tradition) so I could handle the mobility aspect either with
or without a cane.
I am totally blind and use my cane all the time in public places
without a second thought, and pose for photos with my cane in the
background. I'm just a little worried that during that big photo-op
moment when I am coming out, my cane could end up dominating my
appearance more than I would like. I feel positively identified as a
blind person and don't object to being seen with my cane at all, but I
just don't want it to dominate if that makes sense. Also, my current
cane is quite beat-up so if I use it in the wedding, I will probably
want to buy a new one for that purpose.

For those of you who did use a cane, how did you hold it and what did
you do with it during the actual ceremony?

I probably will use my cane, but just want to figure out the most
graceful-looking technique (and rebuff any pressure from family
members not to use it).

Thanks and best,
Arielle