Months of planning and preparation go into ensuring that every detail of the wedding is covered. Shopping for the dress, choosing a venue, selecting the menu, picking music, and coming up with the guest list are just a few of the larger tasks at hand. Deciding upon tiny tots to be part of the ceremony is also important. It is always a good idea to give a gift of books about flower girls and ring bearers that share stories about what kids can expect and describe their responsibilities
Etiquette for Inviting Flower Girls and Ring Bearers
Keep in mind that while these cherubs may be a cute touch to the ceremony, their parents often bear the expense and take on an extra time commitment to make it work. For these reasons, it's important to keep these etiquette tips in mind.
Be sure to ask the parents first.
It would be a big mistake to talk to the flower girl or ring bearer before getting permission from the parents. Share all the reasons why you have selected these children to be part of your special day. But then have a very honest and direct conversation about the cost, time commitment, and other obligations. Having this discussion ahead of time to ensure all adults are on the same page will potential stress later.
Decide which events you would like the flower girl to attend.
In addition to the wedding itself, there are lots of other parties and gatherings beforehand. Wedding showers and rehearsal dinners are a couple of examples. Let the parents know what your hopes and expectations are for the flower girl's attendance.
Discuss hair, makeup, manicures and other details.
Again, it is important for the bride and the flower girl's parents to be in agreement. Should the flower girl's hair be styled by a professional? Will she wear her hair long and flowing, tied in braids, or pinned into a neat bun on top of her head? Will a little makeup be applied for pictures? Talking about all of these things before the day of the wedding is important.
Make the flower girl and ring bearer feel special.
Give each child a little gift when the time comes to invite them into your wedding party. Consider buying a book and writing a special message inside. Make the kids feel included as much as possible and listen openly to their questions. Be clear about what you would like them to do during the ceremony, and be open to anything they have to say. Understand the little ones may be a bit nervous, but if they feel appreciated and included by you, things will go smoothly.
