Tips for Handling Children in Your Wedding Party

Having children at your wedding is a personal choice. Some brides and grooms opt for a black tie affair whereas others take the more casual route. Deciding whether or not to have children participate in the actual wedding ceremony is an even bigger decision. Yes they look adorable all cleaned up and dressed in their best, but will they really listen to directions? Adding children to your wedding party may add that comical affect you were looking for.

If you do decide to have children in your wedding party follow these simple suggestions to help the big day run smoothly.

Dress rehearsal is not just for adults. Have the children participate as well. Also keep in mind that the children should attend the clothes fittings just like the rest of the wedding party. Nothing is more distracting to a child than clothes that itch, are too tight, or too hot. Clean them up a week before the wedding and let them wear their outfit for a few hours. This is a sure way to tell what works for them and what does not.

If you are concerned with them walking down the aisle first consider two things; their age and attention span. If you feel they are too young and may get side tracked easily then consider having another member of the wedding party pulling them down the aisle in a decorated wagon. Or you can always have them escorted or carried by another member of the wedding party. If they are older and you just need a little encouragement getting them from point A to point B consider having their favorite toy waiting for them at the other end.

Shiny rings and a soft pillow may seem like a recipe to play for some ring bearers. Consider having the rings attached to the pillow with string or Velcro. That way if the pillow is dropped the rings will not be lost. You could always have the ring bearer carry decoy rings down the aisle. Give the real wedding rings to the best man to give out at the appropriate time.

Reward for a job well done. Just like you would buy a gift for the bridesmaids and groomsmen, do not forget the littlest members of your wedding party.

If you do decide to have children in your wedding party do not forget the most important thing; they are children. Children can be unpredictable at times. Just keep smiling, go with the flow, and do not let anything ruin your big day.