Who "Gives the Bride Away" in Holy Matrimony?

Many brides (and grooms) today object to the "giving" of the bride, as, to some, it symbolizes unpleasant aspects of patriarchal tradition. Presuming your house of worship has no rules that dictate otherwise, you may omit this part of the wedding ceremony (called "The Presentation"), if you wish. A bride should consider that this portion of the ceremony is historically the big moment for the father of the bride, and denying your father this opportunity might be a disappointment to him. Many couples are addressing their discomfort with the practice by improving upon it: When the officiant asks, "Who gives this woman to be married to this man?" the bride's father can respond, "She gives herself, with her parents' blessing." For even greater parity, the same Presentation question might be asked with regard to the groom, and his parents could respond appropriately.