Youngsters Add Charm To Royal Wedding
Weddings are child’s play! At the recent wedding of Catherine Middleton to Prince William (perhaps you heard of the shindig), the line-up of youngsters was quite prolific with tiny-tot bridesmaids and groomsmen. With Pippa and Prince Harry, siblings of the royal couple, serving as the bride of honor and best man respectively, the remaining procession of pomp and circumstance was quite youthful ranging in age from 3 to 10 years of age.
In addition to her sister, the bride was flanked by four little bridesmaids and the groom, in addition to his brother, had two younger groomsmen, often called “pageboys” in the British tradition. The ages of this pint-sized posse for the now Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are more similar to the traditional age of flower girls and ring bearers here in the United States. The However, for the last 50 years or so, the use of young children in the royal party has been a quaint tradition. We think it is because the darlings look so cute gussied up in their miniature historical costumes.
If you are incorporating children into your wedding ceremony, you can count on them to liven the day, often providing comic relief during the most serious of moments. One of those endearing moments was when one little bridesmaid seemed to fidget, roll her eyes and cover her ears on the balcony where the royal newlyweds shared their first married kiss in front of the world.
Whether junior bridesmaid, flower girl, pageboy or ring bear, don’t forget to treat the little helpers involved in your Big Day to groomsmen and bridesmaid gifts that will honor their important role. Both boys and girls will be less bored at grown-up events such as the rehearsal, reception or brunches with “quiet activities” to keep them busy. Present each with a tote bag filled with coloring books, small games and other small diversions and everyone will remain happy. For the girls, one of the most thoughtful flower girl gifts is a dainty jewelry set, such as a pearl pendant necklace and matching bracelet, that she can wear on your big day and beyond. For the boys, an engraved photo frame with his tuxedo-clad picture makes a great choice in ring bearer gifts he’ll treasure forever.
