The kids are alright!

As I was perusing one of my favorite bridal sites today (www.OffbeatBride.com) I got to thinking about children taking part in the wedding ceremony.  Lot's of people will tell you not to do it,   "They'll mess something up"... well I say don't listen!!!! Kids are the BEST and if you have 'em - flaunt em! Even if you don't have your own, use someone else's!  Aside from the usual "Ring Bearing" and "Flower Girling"...which are of course traditional and beautiful AND can be done in a really unique way if you choose to do so (see Offbeat Bride article on Ring Pillows, etc.) there are many ways of incorporating children into a wedding ceremony.

 I've had couples with children from a previous relationship take part in a Sand Ceremony where they intermingle their own colored sand with the Brides and Grooms to symbolizing the coming together of one big family. 

Then there's the Unity Candle where children can take part by CAREFULLY lighting the center Unity Candle along with the Bride and Groom to once again symbolize the coming together of everyone. 

These are primarily "mini-ceremonies" that you would include your OWN children in but what if you have that adorable nephew who wants to do something special? Have him be not only the Ring-Bearer but the Ring-Warming attendant.  In a ceremony that incorporates a Ring Warming the guests are asked to pass the wedding bands and while they hold them for a short time, to make a wish for the future of the couple, this way, when the rings are returned for the ring exchange, "These rings will hold in their precious metals something which is even more precious, your good and loving wishes for the future of this couple."  This is the perfect job for a Ring-Bearer or even a Flower Girl.  They can take the rings (in a box or an organza bag, or even tied to a cute little Lamby, see below) to the first person, in the first row of guests and follow the rings as they are passed.  Once the rings get to the end of the crowd, the Ring Warming Attendant can bring them back to the officiant for the exchange.  This also keeps the little one busy with a job instead of fidgeting up front at the "altar".

Do you have more than one little girl who needs to take part in your ceremony? How about one flower girl and one "heralder"?  Have one of the sweeties carry a chalk-board over her head that says "Here comes the Bride" while she announces the same!  So cute, especially for really little ones that love to yell! 

Those are just a couple of ideas, make your ceremony your own and use those kids! They make for GREAT photos and the possibilities are endless!