“The Cuteness Factor:” Having kids in your wedding party

Tiny tuxes, fluffy dresses, and chubby cheeks practically guarantee an “Aww” moment. Behind the adorable photo opps is a bit of chaos, a lot of bribing with candy, and the occasional toddler meltdown in the aisle.

Thinking about including young kids in your wedding party? Here’s everything you need to know before handing over a basket of petals or a ring box to a three-year-old:

Pros:

Built-in cuteness overload. There’s nothing quite like a tiny human taking their job way too seriously…or not seriously at all. Whether they toss petals with flair or just run down the aisle yelling, “Hi Mommy!”, it’s almost always a crowd-pleaser.

A sweet way to include family. If you’ve got nieces, nephews, godchildren, or your own little ones, making them part of your wedding is a great way to honor them. Plus it keeps them involved and makes for some heart-melting memories.

Their “duties” are over quickly. Flower girls and ring bearers typically walk down the aisle just before the bride processes, then sit with family for the rest of the ceremony. So even if things go sideways, it’ll be brief and over before you know it.

Cons:

Kids are wild cards. Some little ones walk down the aisle like pros, others freeze, cry, sprint, or throw the ring box like it’s a baseball. Rehearsing the processional does little good for kids that young; no matter how many times you practice with them, actually walking down the aisle with a crowd staring at them is a whole other story.

Meltdowns are always possible. Naps get skipped. Snacks get forgotten. Outfits get itchy. Suddenly your ring bearer is face-down on the church floor sobbing. It happens! All you can do is roll with it—everyone will understand, and probably laugh about it later.

They might steal the show. Be aware that some kids will absolutely pull the spotlight; for example, imagine your four-year-old flower girl twirling her dress in circles behind you or your ring bearer picking his nose.

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Tips for keeping it smooth(ish):

Keep expectations low and sense of humor high. Don’t expect perfection; expect adorable chaos.

Recruit a helper. Assign a parent or close friend to walk them down the aisle or scoop them up if needed.

Bribes are fair game. Snacks, stickers, new toys—whatever it takes to get them down the aisle!

Choose comfy outfits. No one likes scratchy tulle or a stiff shirt collar. Select outfits that look cute and feel good.

Let them sit out if they panic or meltdown. It’s not the end of the world if they don’t make it down the aisle.

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Having young kids in your wedding is a bit like inviting a tiny tornado in a bowtie, but one that brings joy, laughter, and the kind of unscripted magic you’ll talk about for years. If you’re comfortable with a little unpredictability these kiddos can bring, then it’s absolutely worth it.