Picking the members of your young entourage is only half the battle. Once you're done choosing, you also need to prepare the little ones for the big day--below are some helpful tips.
Get them excited
Build their enthusiasm and make them look forward to your wedding, too. Tell them what to expect, so they won't get overwhelmed on your special day. Make them understand that their role is important, so that they feel proud to be chosen and that they know you're counting on them to deliver.
Practice with them
Practice walking down the aisle with them until they feel comfortable. If necessary, place markers on where they should go or stay during the ceremony. Also practice other tasks, like carrying the ring or arrhae pillow, or showering the aisle with flowers. Explain simply and clearly what they have to do.
Employ a buddy system
Assign each child a buddy--ideally someone who's also part of your wedding party--to assist and look after them throughout the ceremony. Make sure the child is comfortable with her/his buddy so that s/he is more likely to follow the lead.
Make their companions easy to find
On the day itself, set the children at ease by showing them where their parents or guardians will be seated. By doing so, they gain the confidence to walk down the aisle, and they're also easier to coax to follow instructions. Also, don't forget to thank and praise them for a job well done afterwards.
At the end of the day, kids will be kids, so just be patient and keep your cool. No matter what, children will always be a wonderful addition that will make for a more unforgettable wedding.
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