Tips for Including Children in Your Wedding Ceremony

Whether they're your children, nieces and nephews, or your friend's kids, it is always more fun to include children in your wedding ceremony. Their innocence is a great addition to the wedding party and they'll have lots of fun being in the spotlight. Not only that, but children don't always have to be flower girls and ring bearers; there are plenty of other ways to include children in your wedding ceremony.

Usher
Just because the children are a little short doesn't mean that they can't escort guests to their seats. This works especially well for pre-teen and teenage boys who don't have any other role in the wedding. Including children in your wedding in this way will allow them to feel as though they are a part of something big. Make sure they know how to properly seat guests and that they ask people if they are guests of the bride or groom. If the children are over five feet, this is usually best, but I've heard of weddings where the ushers were much younger.

Junior Bridesmaid or Groomsman
You might want to include children in your wedding by giving them an even larger role: Junior Bridesmaid or Groomsman. They will stand at the altar with you as you're getting married and will assist the adult bridesmaid and groomsmen in their duties. Never underestimate children and their ability to assume responsible roles. Children can help steam the bride's dress, carry tuxes in from the car, hold onto the rings until the ceremony and keep both the bride and groom from becoming too nervous.

Reader
Many couples choose to have Biblical or other readings performed at the wedding ceremony or at the reception. This is a great way for children to be included in weddings because they don't have much responsibility but they do have an important role. It is usually a good idea to choose a short passage that can easily be written down on a note card. Have the children help you pick out a reading if you don't have one in mind.