Flower girls, ring bearers… but what else? There are so many fun, meaningful ways to include your nieces and nephews in your wedding, no matter their age.
For many couples, including their nieces and nephews in their wedding party is a way to honor their relatives and let them know they are loved. Whether your nieces and nephews are children or adults, there are tons of ways to incorporate them into your wedding. Let’s find the perfect fit!
Why include nieces and nephews in your wedding?
First off, why should someone include their nieces and nephews in their wedding? Here are some of the reasons why it can be special to do so:
- Strengthen Family Ties: Sometimes, weddings aren’t just about you and your partner. It’s a celebration of family, and including your nieces and nephews makes that bond even stronger. Picture it now: Your little niece walking down the aisle as the flower girl; she runs up to you and embraces you at the altar. The photographer takes a pic. You have this picture for the next 50 years that you cherish every time you look at it!
- Unforgettable Memories: For you and them! Children especially cherish being part of a big event. These memories will make your wedding even more meaningful. For example, maybe your nieces want to sing you and your spouse a song at the reception. Sitting down and hearing their little voices will be something you remember forever.
- Express Your Love: If your nieces and nephews feel like your own, involving them is a natural way to show how much they mean to you. For instance, asking your nephew to be a groomsmen is the definition of expressing this sentiment. No matter what the age, it always feels good to be asked to stand up at someone’s wedding.
- Children Love It: If your nieces and nephews are children, this may be an even more exciting event for them, as children often enjoy being a part of a big event and feeling important. Including nieces and nephews in a wedding can be a way to make them feel special and valued.
Considerations before including nieces and nephews in your wedding
What factors should you consider regarding your nieces and nephews in your wedding? Let’s discuss what to consider when including your nieces and nephews in your wedding:
- Age and Maturity: Can they handle the responsibility? Will they enjoy it, or is it too much pressure for a younger child? For example, a 6-year-old likely won’t be able to handle the responsibility of standing up as a groomsman but may be much better suited for being the ring bearer or guestbook attendant.
- Your Relationship: A close bond makes it more meaningful. If you’re not very close, a smaller role might be better. For instance, perhaps ask them to be a guestbook attendant rather than groomsmen.
- Availability: Make sure they’re actually free on your wedding date, and (for kids) get their parent’s approval.
- Personality and Skills: Shy kids might prefer a simpler role. More outgoing kids may be keen on a bigger role. And don’t forget to showcase talents if they have them (singing, dancing, playing a musical instrument, etc.)! For instance, a shy kid may not be comfortable as a ring-bearer; they may cry and run right to Mom!
Focus on Success: The goal is for your nieces and nephews to have a positive, age-appropriate experience that fits their personality.
How to include nieces and nephews in your wedding
Okay, let’s get into the meat and potatoes of this article – how to actually include nieces and nephews in your wedding. There are SO many ways to do this; let’s find the best fit for your loved ones:
Traditional Roles:
- Junior Bridesmaid/Groomsman: This option is best for older kids and teens (roughly 12-17) who want to be part of the wedding party, with age-appropriate attire and responsibilities.
- Flower Girl/Ring Bearer: This is the classic way to go– an adorable option for younger children. Don’t forget to consider their comfort level being in the spotlight.
Roles for Older Children:
- Ushers/Greeters: Great for older kids/adults who want to help out without the formality of the wedding party. For example, older teens who don’t want to be in the spotlight but would like the inclusion.
- Guest Book Attendant: This is a fun way to interact with guests and is good for social kids of any age, but typically works better for older kids.
Showcase Their Talents:
- Special Performance: If they sing, dance, play an instrument, etc., let them share their gift during the ceremony or reception! For example, singing a classic wedding/love song to the crowd at the reception is a great option.
- Readings: Having older kids/teens choose a poem or a passage that reflects your love story at the ceremony is especially meaningful. Again, consider reading abilities, desire for the spotlight, etc.
Focus on Inclusion:
- Honorary Titles: Great for any age, lets them feel special without a specific task (“Junior Wedding Assistant,” etc.)
- Special Dance: Have a sweet moment at the reception to create a joyful memory together.
- Wedding Photos: Capture the bond! Plan both formal shots and some fun, candid ones with your nieces and nephews.
- Kid-Friendly Seating: Create either a family table or a designated kids’ area that makes them feel welcome and lets them have fun at their own pace.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect way to include your nieces and nephews in your wedding is a decision you won’t regret. It strengthens your family bond, makes them feel loved, and creates memories that will last a lifetime. Whether they carry the rings, greet guests, or simply dance with you at the reception, their presence will make your day even more special. From adorable photos to heartwarming moments, these shared experiences will be yours to cherish long after the “I dos.”
Nicole Sheehey is the Head of Legal Content at HelloPrenup, and an Illinois licensed attorney. She has a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to prenuptial agreements. Nicole has Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School. She has a deep understanding of the legal and financial implications of prenuptial agreements, and enjoys writing and collaborating with other attorneys on the nuances of the law. Nicole is passionate about helping couples locate the information they need when it comes to prenuptial agreements. You can reach Nicole here: Nicole@Helloprenup.com
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