Children have long played a part in weddings, often known for stealing the show with their antics or simply because they are so cute.

Flower girls and ring bearers are usually under 10 years old. Junior bridesmaids are usually between 10 and 14. Though they are so adorable you could just eat them up, children under 5 can be very unpredictable. In addition to perhaps not remembering their roles, you run the risk of complete refusal or having a young one stand bawling in the aisle.

Please keep in mind when choosing attire that you are dressing children. Very elaborate, heavy frilly items can be heavy and make it difficult for small children to walk.  Avoid trains on flower girl dresses.  Think about comfortable necklines and sleeves as well as materials that breathe. Ring bearers may wear a tuxedo. Other options are dress shorts or knickers that coordinate with the wedding party. Allow children to wear new shoes in advance of the wedding day.  New shoes can hurt little feet too!  It will also help to scuff the bottoms and avoid slips and falls often accompanying new shoes.

At your dress rehearsal run through the children’s parts first.  Hopefully the children will have several weeks of preparation and rehearsal at home.  It’s even a good idea to have dress rehearsal’s at home in the pretty clothing they will be wearing.  After going over their parts, it’s wise to have an adult at the rehearsal to keep them occupied while the remainder of the rehearsal continues.

Use props that very closely imitate what they will be carrying during the ceremony.  This will alert you to some potential problems such as a child that does not like to wear a hat or headband. 

Article Courtesy of Vicky Johnson of Holy Matrimony

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