Kids at Weddings? Here’s What I have seen
Welcome to my blog “Ways to include children in wedding ceremonies”
As a marriage celebrant based on the Sunshine Coast, I’ve seen so many heart-warming (and a few very funny!) moments involving children at weddings.
Below are some helpful tips on ways to include children in wedding ceremonies.
One I especially loved was when the ring bearers were called up to hand the rings over but instead he hands his toy car to the groom! I have a feeling he felt that was extra special to give that away. Kids can be unpredictable and bring an adorable amount of energy to a ceremony.
If you’re planning a ceremony and wondering whether to include kids or not, I always encourage couples to think about how they want the day to feel, do you want it just about the two of you or are you open to having the flower girl potentially getting stage fright and running straight to nana never quite finishing that flower trail for you, although she may not.
It is the age-old debate on whether children should be at a wedding well, there is no way I am touching base on the subject, this blog is actually about kids at weddings- How to incorporate them whether it be your own children, you’re a blended family coming together and want to unite your families as one or your nieces and nephew nominated themselves for an all-star role.
Here are some great ways you can include children into your special day, it can after all add so much heart and meaning.
1. Recessional Roles
- Flower Girl/Ring Bearer: Classic, but always a sweet option.
- Junior Bridesmaids or Groomsmen: Older children can walk down the aisle as part of the wedding party.
2. Family Vows
- After the couple exchanges vows, you could have special family vows where they make promises to the children (and sometimes the children respond with a vow too).
- Vows to children from the partner that may be taking on a new parent role
- Example: “I promise to support you, to listen to you, and to love you with all my heart.”
3. Blending Ceremony
- Sand Ceremony: Each family member pours a different coloured sand into a single vase, blending all the colours of the family unit into one.
4. Special Readings or Performances
- Children can do a short reading, recite a poem, or even sing a song.
- You could help them choose something simple and heartfelt.
5. Gift Presentation
- After vows, the couple could present the children with a small gift (like a necklace, bracelet, or special token) symbolising the joining of the family, something they can hold on to forever.
6. Handfasting Involving Children
- Instead of just the couple, you could incorporate the children into a family handfasting with multiple ribbons or cords, they could each tie their own ribbon onto the ribbon that will be knotted forever.
8. Children as Witnesses (18 + only)
- Children come in all shapes and sizes (particularly older teens) This is a beautiful way to involve them, to have them sign the wedding register as your witness.
9. Special Seating
- Give children special roles like handing out confetti /tossing petals, or manning a “welcome table or sign” to point family and friends in the right direction
10. Honourable Mention
- You could simply mention the children lovingly in the ceremony script, highlighting their importance in the couple’s lives.
Now you have all these ideas how you could include in your ceremony – here are some helpful tips on managing kids at a wedding ceremony
Have a kid-friendly zone
Depending on your venue, or perhaps you are having a wedding at a private property set up a picnic rug, some cushions, colouring books, or some quiet soft toys off to the side of the ceremony space (but still in sight, of course). It gives little ones a place to be by themselves and hopefully stay busy and not distracting the wedding. A great local sunshine coast company is Bear and Miakat and they can provide little tables as well.
Keep snacks on hand
Prepack snacks (nothing too messy or sticky or crunchy) they can come in so handy during longer ceremony. Even if it keeps them quiet for five minutes longer.
Don’t stress about the noise
As a celebrant I believe a bit of giggling, babbling or even toddler walking through out the aisle is all part of the experience. Most guests are very understanding, and most certainly shouldn’t be bothered by this.
Time it well
If possible, plan your ceremony around nap times for toddlers or early bedtimes for the little ones – let them head off with a trusted baby sitter so you can enjoy dancing the rest of the night away.
Brief the parents
Let the guests with children know the tone you are aiming for. Most parents of young ones are more than happy to step away if their child gets too restless or too noisy, especially if they feel welcomed and informed to do so.
Hire a Babysitter or Entertainer
For bigger weddings with lots of children it is certainly worthwhile investing some money in a local babysitter or entertainment during the ceremony and reception. Keep the kids happy and give the parents a chance to relax.
As a musician and DJ, I can tell you that the kids love ripping up the dance floor to just about any song.
Keep it short and sweet
If you are really concerned that there will be lots of children there and you don’t want them getting bored – think of ways to include children in wedding ceremonies and remember to keep your ceremony warm, meaningful and just the right length (also so the grown-ups don’t get too bored)
Your wedding should reflect you and your story. If kids are a part of that story, let’s make them feel included in a way that works for everyone.
The Sunshine Coast provides a perfect setting for a family friendly wedding. Whether you’re looking for wide open spaces, fresh mountain air or the sand between the toes we’ve got it all
Amanda Jensen is a celebrant, MC, live musician, and DJ serving the Sunshine Coast, QLD, and surrounding areas. Known for her flexibility, attention to detail, and kind energy, she specialises in creating personalised celebrations for couples seeking meaningful wedding experiences.
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