Here Come the Little Ones...Trends for Ring Bearers and Flower Girls

Who can resist those adorable tots and toddlers, resplendent in their wedding finery and the photographer’s prop of choice? Small children bring a lightheartedness to the wedding ceremony, if not outright comic relief. These days, savvy brides are taking that playfulness to new heights with their ring bearers’ and flower girls’ outfits and accessories.

Several notable designers are creating gorgeous ring bearer pillows in an array of colors, fabrics and textures, bearing little resemblance to the white taffeta and tulle cushions of yester-year. Picture your ring bearer’s hands cupped gingerly around a dainty bird’s nest, your rings laid tenderly inside. For a more masculine approach, you may opt for a shiny, black lacquered shadow box to hold your rings on their way down the aisle.

For your flower girl, a beautiful silk pouch filled with petals can add an extra splash of color to her attire. A lightweight decorative box tied with a pretty bow can easily substitute for the traditional white basket. Or consider adapting a funky beaded evening bag for a whimsical touch.

Age-appropriate outfitting of the little ones may be something to keep an eye on. Snappy miniature suits or tuxedos are widely acceptable for boys, but the junior version of your bridesmaids’ dresses may come off with a slightly more grownup look than you want. A sweet frock that celebrates the little girl in all of us is a perfect fit.

In some unusual cases couples forgo having pint-sized attendants at all, and include their favorite pets (and pet handlers) in their wedding processions instead. Precious tuxedo collars or flowery wreaths are available to spruce up Fido’s or Fi-Fi’s wedding day look too. But be careful. Animals, through no fault of their own, can upstage everyone in the wedding party — sometimes even the bride!

As with all the other details, it’s your wedding and the only rule is that there are no rules! Be as traditional or as uber-chic as you please. Why should the kids have all the fun?!
~AW