9 Ways to Incorporate Kids in Weddings!

Weddings are not necessarily what they used to be. In fact, your wedding can be whatever you want, more than ever. If certain stuffy wedding traditions don’t work for you, you don’t need them! You can choose whatever wedding theme and decor fits you as a couple! And with that in mind, that also includes your kiddos. Maybe this isn’t your first wedding and you already have a couple of kids to add to the mix. Or maybe your partner does, or you both do! Either way, adding kids in weddings might be new to you. But we’re here to help!

Here are several ways to include kids in weddings that are fun and meaningful!

1. Flower girl/ ring bearer
2. Bridesmaids/ groomsmen
3. Inclusive unity ceremony
4. Write them into your wedding vows and wedding speech
5. Walking down the aisle
6. Wedding planning DIY crafts
7. Make them a cake tasting specialist
8. Miniature photographer
9. First dance

1. Flower girl/ ring bearer

One of the easiest ways to include kids in weddings is to make them the flower girl(s) and/or ring bearer(s). This role is typically performed by kids between the ages of 4 and 10. Any younger and your kiddo might be more susceptible to stage fright or tantrums. Any older, and they might serve better as a junior bridesmaid or groomsman (more on that next). 

2. Bridesmaids/ groomsmen

Another way to include slightly older kids in weddings or if your children are adults is to make them bridesmaids and groomsmen. If your kids are not quite adults yet, they can be junior bridesmaids or groomsmen. This is an excellent way to include your children or soon-to-be stepchildren in the ceremony and make them feel just as important in this new family as they are!

3. Inclusive unity ceremony

One really sweet way to include kids in a wedding is to make them a part of the unity ceremony. You can do this in various ways. You can either just have them be up there present with you. Or, you can make it even more interactive by having them perform some of the ceremony. Instead of the standard rice or sand, you can even further include the kiddos by making the “unity element” candy! Let your kiddos pick some of their favorite candy (or something else fun that they can be part of choosing) to fill the unity jar to help them see that they are just as much a part of this marriage as you and your partner!

4. Write them into your wedding vows and wedding speech

If you’re looking for a truly meaningful way to include your kids in a wedding, look no further than your vows. This wedding and uniting yourself to your partner is as big of a step for them as it is for you! And likewise, if your partner has kids, too. Having you and your partner make your vows not only to each other but to your kids, too, is an impactful way to unite two families into one. And don’t forget to include the kiddos in the wedding speeches at the reception!

5. Walking down the aisle

There are a couple of ways to include kids in a wedding while walking down the aisle. We’ve already discussed making them the flower girl/ ring bearer or bridesmaid/ groomsman. But, depending on their age, your kiddo coming down the aisle could be even more special! If your kiddo is too young to be a flower girl/ ring bearer, consider having your maid of honor/ best man pull them down the aisle in a wagon! Bonus points if they hold a sign saying “Here comes my mommy” or “Here comes the bride!” Alternatively, if they’re too old for all of that, consider taking an extra detour from the traditional by letting your kid(s) walk you down the aisle!

6. Wedding planning DIY crafts

Are you doing a little wedding planning on your own? You can include your kids in weddings by getting them involved in this important part. Check off a couple of boxes at once by involving your kids in a craft for your wedding!

You can also include them in planning decisions that aren’t as critical to you and your partner, such as choosing cream or white for the invites, or light or dark pink roses!

7. Make them a cake tasting specialist

Do you want to be the absolute coolest parents? Invite your kids along for the cake tasting. If you’re looking for the “sweetest” way to include kids in weddings, this is it. Sometimes choosing between different wedding cake flavors and alternatives can be a pain. Eliminate that stress by letting the kiddos be the tiebreaker between your favorite flavors! Not only will they have a blast and think you’re the coolest parent by letting them take part in this decision, but it might be one less wedding decision you have to make.

8. Miniature photographer

Obviously, having an amazing photographer for your wedding is an absolute must. There are so many reasons why your photographer is integral to making memories for your wedding. However, the more pics the better, right!? Depending on their age, you can include kids in weddings in various ways. If they are on the younger end,  disposable digital cameras are a super fun way to include kids in weddings. You remember disposable cameras, right!? Well give your kiddos a camera and get a fun new angle to your wedding festivities! Alternatively, if they are at an age where they have cell phones and are adept at cell phone photography, let them loose with their phones to document the moments they find fun!

9. First dance

Lastly, at your reception there’s always a first dance. Usually that involves you and each other or a significant parent. However, if you’re wanting to include kids in a wedding, let them be a part of your first dance, either as a couple or with your parents. This could be anything from a simple dance to a whole choreographed number if you feel up to it! This will create a special memory to solidify your new family for years to come. 

Love this content and want more? Read more about wedding planning on our blog. Are you helping to plan a wedding and still need to nail down a venue? Give us a call to schedule a tour and see why Jennings Trace might be your perfect place.