Avoiding Kid Chaos at Your Ceremony
I thought it would be fun to combine this edition of “Words of Wisdom” with “Devotions Commotions.” For many couples, having little ones in their wedding party is pure joy. These small humans can truly steal the show and create amazing pictures as they beam ear to ear. When doing rehearsals, I now remind parents, grandparents and the couple: simply do not expect these kiddos to make it down the aisle. If they do, it’s a wonderful bonus! If they don’t, it is ok! It should never be a make-it-or-break-it part of the ceremony. The ceremony is about the couple getting married surrounded by their loved ones.
When there is pressure felt to get the little ones down the aisle, all it does is add unneeded stress. I have had parents literally push their scared youngsters down the aisle. This ultimately leads to the child having a full melt down– and a major commotion. The parents are so worried that the couple will be disappointed if the child doesn’t follow through. Everyone is stressed and the tension is palpable. Never force them into this situation because it just causes more chaos and no one wins… and the pictures of a three year old weeping on the floor and the flustered parent now carrying them out of the ceremony is just a loss. If you are the bride or groom, please let the parents know ahead of time that it is perfectly fine for it not to be perfect. You may also consider some alternatives to the traditional arrangement.
If the fabulous flower girls and regal ring bearers make it all the way down the aisle, great!! If they don’t, pick them up and kiss them, have a seat, and enjoy the wedding. Like I always say, these are the moments that make your day unique and create the best stories to share for generations.
~ Wendy Stewart is the owner of Devotions Wedding Chapel in Greenleaf, WI
(located near Green Bay, Appleton, and Manitowoc, WI)
