6 Unexpected Ways to Include Kids in Your Wedding

From nieces and nephews to family friends, the little ones in your life bring constant joy and happiness. If you know you want to include kids in your big day but either don't need additional flower girls and ring bearers or want to forgo that tradition entirely, there are other roles kids can play in the celebration. Here are six creative ways to involve children in your ceremony and reception, adding a touch of cuteness to your big day.

REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD HAVE KIDS IN YOUR WEDDING

Processional Leaders

Some brides and grooms have many little ones in their lives, whether the children are extended family members or their friends' (or own!) offspring. To avoid picking favorites, consider forgoing the traditional flower girl and ring bearer roles and let all of the children lead the wedding processional together. After reaching the altar, the kids can find their parents in the crowd and enjoy the rest of the ceremony with the other wedding guests.

Junior Bridesmaids and Groomsmen

If want to include older children or teenagers in your ceremony, create a new role for them: junior bridesmaid or groomsman. These mini members dress like the rest of the bridal party, pose for photographs, and walk down the aisle during the processional. But unlike the full-fledged bridesmaids and groomsmen, they aren't expected to plan pre-wedding celebrations or pitch in financially.

Ceremony Ushers

At larger weddings, ushers guide guests to their seats and answer ceremony-related questions. Any child old enough to understand the seating arrangement and communicate with guests can take on the role, ensuring that your pre-wedding setup runs smoothly. You can also have the little ushers hold handwritten signs directing guests to the ceremony site, guestbook, or drink station.

Makeshift Photographers

Before the reception, arm your littlest wedding guests with disposable cameras and encourage them to capture candid shots of the night. The kids will love snapping pictures, and you'll end up with dozens of memorable keepsakes after getting the film developed. Plus, seeing the wedding through a child's eyes will give you a fun new perspective of the big day.

Tiny Dancers

After your first dance as husband and wife, let the children at your wedding take center stage with a kids-only dance party. Play a song they'll love (like something from the latest Disney movie) and encourage them to bust their wildest moves. Guests will love the unexpectedly adorable moment, which allows kids to partake in the festivities without drawing attention away from the bride and groom.

Handy Crafters

In the days before your wedding, throw a crafting party with your littlest guests to create decorations for the ceremony and reception. The kids can make anything from hanging floral displays to wedding favor gift bags, depending on their age and skill level. Not only will you save money by taking on DIY projects, you'll also bond with the children (and their parents!) in a new way.