Of all the wedding traditions, the sweetest by far is the addition of a flower girl to the ceremony. Walking down the aisle, tossing rose petals and looking absolutely darling in her dress.
If your daughter’s been asked to be a flower girl or you’re the bride-to-be and want more details about the role, here’s everything you need to know.
Flower Girl Role and Responsibilities
The flower girl tradition is believed to be a derivative from a practice in ancient Rome where the youngest female in attendance carried wheat and herbs. Meant to signify and bless the couple with prosperity and fertility.
Today, wheat and herbs have been replaced with a basket of rose petals that the flower girl tosses (or throws, depending on her demeanor) as she walks slowly down the aisle.
If petals are not an option, alternatively the flower girl may precede the bride clutching a small bouquet.
Flower girls are usually 3 to 8 years old and the responsibilities bestowed on each vary, depending on their age and maturity level.
If she’s old enough and able to follow instructions, the flower girl may stand with the rest of the bridal party during the ceremony, and if this is not an option she can sit with her parents after she’s fulfilled the main part of her role.
It’s important that the bride and potential flower girl’s parents chat beforehand to discuss the vision and ensure it’s something the youngster is capable of handling.
For younger girls (or a child with a short attention span who may have difficulty even getting down the aisle) it’s totally fine to have an adult flanking her if necessary.
Flower Girl Dresses
A flower girl’s dress typically has an A-line cut with a full skirt. Depending on the bride’s preference, the flower girl can either wear an age-appropriate version of the bridesmaid’s dresses—made from the same material and in the same color—or a white dress.
Paired with a shiny set of polished buckled Mary Janes or a pair of sandals that are comfortable and walkable. Add accessories like a sash with a bow or a flower crown, and there she is. Cute as can be..
If the flower girl is tossing rose petals, she’ll typically carry them in a basket or a pouch.
Alternatives to tossing petals are to have her to blow bubbles, or simply walk down the aisle carrying a darling little bouquet.
The flower girl dress is usually chosen by the bride herself, however many brides feel it best to involve the parents and sometimes even the flower girl—if she’s old enough—in the dress selection process.
The dress itself is usually paid for by the parents, and the bride and groom assume responsibility for the basket and petals.
Flower Girl Preparation
It’s important to explain the importance of the role to the little flower girl beforehand, in an age-appropriate manner. Then practice. Practice walking down the aisle tossing petals (she can always mime the tossing motion) in different environments and settings.
If it aligns with the parenting style, consider offering an incentive—a small treat for good behavior.
Children—younger ones especially—can be unpredictable. Remember, even if it doesn’t all go according to plan, the nature of a flower girl is such that guests will still find whatever she does nothing short of adorable.
However, if stage fright or a tantrum were to occur right before the actual ceremony, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan in place, just in case. Perhaps have a Jr. Bridesmaid on hand to fulfill the role if necessary.
If the flower girl and her family are close to the bride, many youngsters find the opportunity to get ready alongside the bridesmaids to be an exciting special event.
Other Important Details
The flower girl is typically included in the formal wedding photos, and she may also be captured candidly during the ceremony and the rest of the celebration.
It’s customary for youngsters to sit with their parents during the reception, however if there’s a kids table in place and the flower girl is old enough, she can definitely be seated with the rest of the children.
The bride may also choose to give the flower girl a small thank you gift for her involvement in the wedding, such as a small trinket or little stuffed animal.
Conclusion:
Remember working with children can be challenging at times, and it’s important to have realistic expectations. Practice—paired with realistic expectations—goes a long way.
Plus, there’s really no need to set expectations too high. Afterall, the bride’s still the star of the show.
