Los Angeles Wedding Photography

They can be either the angelic additions to your bridal party or the taffeta encased tantrum – flower girls. And don’t forget those adorable ring bearers to escort your tiny treasure down the aisle. I’ve photographed many of these precious faces as they charmed wedding guests marching down the aisles. If you want to include children in your bridal party, consider a few basics and tricks to make the day run smoothly for them and your ceremony.

Remember that the younger the child, the more likely it will be that something unexpected might happen. Often the charming antics only endear the hearts of the guests to the flower girl and ring bearer, but be ready for a few surprises along the way. If you have very little ones you want to include in your wedding party you might want to consider having an older child pull a decorated wagon with the smaller munchkins seated in the box.

Flower girls and ring bearers not only have to march down the aisle, but pose with the wedding party for pictures. Talk with your photographer about posing children and make sure that he is someone who has positive experiences and a good attitude with kids. Also make sure that you have lots of conversations with the parents of the little ones about schedules for that day. If you plan to have photographs taken before the ceremony, consider nap schedules and maybe try to do group poses last, increasing the likelihood that the dresses and suits will be in better condition and patience will still be possible.

Just as you might give your bridesmaids and groomsmen token gifts of appreciation, you can give your little assistants token gifts that can serve double duty as entertainment. New books and small toys can be both keepsakes and time fillers for busy bodies. You might want to consider having a portable DVD player and some cartoons or movies for quiet activities. Plan for snacks for the kids, too, but avoid messy juices and chocolates or things that can send them on a sugar high!

It’s a good idea to have some type of incentive for flower girls and ring bearers at the end of the aisle (aka bribery!). A special treat waiting in their seats, a parent waiting with their stuffed animals, or a mystery prize can help motivate shy or reluctant children.

Sometimes no matter how much planning and preparing you do, stage fright or lack of sleep can throw out the plans for your flower girl or ring bearer to walk down the aisle. Don’t worry about it – just go ahead with the ceremony as planned. Later in the celebration if your little ones feel up for it you can introduce them at the reception or share a special dance with them.

I would love to hear from you – please contact me.

To see more of my work - www.innesphotography.com.