A Guide to Flower Girls: All about the most adorable members of the wedding party

Although both males and females serve as ring bearers, as the name implies, only little girls should be appointed the role of flower girl. Flower girls are usually between the ages of four and eight, although it’s not uncommon to see children as young as two toddling down the aisle, scattering petals of flowers as they go. For the best outcome, it’s always recommended to choose a girl that’s old enough to understand what’s happening, what’s going to be expected of her, as well as one who will be comfortable around strangers without becoming frightened.

Preparing Your Flower Girl for the Big Day

In many regions throughout the world, some brides are choosing to have all flower girls in their bridal party instead of bridesmaids as their attendants, but this does add the responsibility of helping with the planning of the wedding, and all of the other details the adult bridesmaids usually take care of.

There is no also set rule regarding the number of flower girls that should be in a wedding party, so if you’re having difficulty choosing between two nieces, why not ask both to be a part of your special day?

While the bride is the one who decides what the flower girl should wear for the wedding, it’s generally up to the child’s parents to pay for the outfit, shoes, and whatever accessories may be needed. Considerate brides will be sure to choose a dress that the child may be able to wear again to another important event, or one that’s reasonably priced. However, it’s not unusual for the bride and groom to offer to pay for the flower girl’s dress as a gift or token of their appreciation, while this is a nice gesture, it’s certainly not a requirement.

This matter should definitely be decided long in advance so that everyone is clear of what’s expected of them and to avoid any misunderstandings or confusion.

There many books on the subject of flower girls and their role in a wedding that are written with young children in mind, designed to ease their fears and also completely explain what they should expect. Also, having a talk with your littlest member of the bridal party, and of course with her parents, giving everyone plenty of time to ask questions if necessary should be on your list of things to do when planning the wedding.

On the actual day of the wedding, ask another bridesmaid, or perhaps a junior bridesmaid to “buddy up” with your flower girl, just in case she needs a little help, an encouraging smile, or a hand to hold.

The Role of the Flower Girl

Traditionally, the flower girl precedes the bride down the aisle, and then stands with the bridesmaids during the wedding ceremony. Some brides choose to have the flower girl follow the bridesmaids, while others decide for her to go first, or be accompanied by the maid of honor.

While flower girls should be present at the wedding rehearsal, it isn’t necessary for them to attend the rehearsal dinner, or to stand in the receiving line at the wedding. After the pictures are taken, they should be free to enjoy the wedding with the rest of the guests, and many parents find it incredibly easier to bring along another outfit for the reception for the child to change into, saving her dress, and also allowing for extra comfort.

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