Carolyn Burke STL Blog

Who knew planning a wedding would be akin to staging a major Broadway production? To help out with your co-directorial debut, I have prepared a cross-section of the wedding day cast of characters. (Keep in mind that most roles can be played by either gender, and by as many people as you want.) This is actually a really long post in five parts. So enjoy . . . Junior Bridesmaids/Jr Groomsmen/Jr Ushers These are young members of the wedding party (aged 9-16). They'll attend all major functions (excluding Adult-Rated ones) and fulfill the same responsibilities as senior squad members. Lasses can wear less-sexy versions of the bridesmaid dresses (if the dresses are risqué); lads may don a tux like the big guys. Flower Girl  One or two flower girls, between the ages of 4 and 8, walk down the aisle alone or with the ring bearer.  They can carry pomanders (balls of flowers that match the bridesmaids' or bride's bouquet held by a ribbon, a basket of rose petals to sc...

Inviting children to take part in your celebration can make it even more special.  If there are children - your own or someone else's - in your life, you can find several ways to get them involved. However, the last thing you want to worry about is your flower girl and ring bearer becoming impatient, restless or fidgety on the day of the wedding.  Here are some helpful tips to ensure that the day goes smoothly... As a general rule, when choosing children to take part in your wedding as a flower girl or ring bearer, it is usually best (or at least more predictable) to have children ages four and above. Now, of course, each child is different and you'll want to consider their personality (very shy vs. outgoing) and maturity level as well. Those who suffer stage fright might work behind the scenes before the ceremony. Some children may prefer to distribute wedding programs, invite guests to sign the guestbook, light candles, or hand out bubbles for blowing after...