Ask Liz: Wedding Kids vs. Pre-Wedding Timelines

Hmm. Is your whooole wedding in her hands? Photo: Liz Coopersmith

Dear Liz, 

We have a ringbearer and four flower girls, all under the age of 6. Their parents are in our wedding party, after talking to them, I’m getting a little worried. Because of our wedding schedule, we’re starting pictures really early in the day, so there is a lot of down time before the wedding ceremony. What can I do to make sure they don’t get bored, and behave? We have babysitters during the reception, but nothing in the three hours beforehand. 

Signed, 

Kid Friendly Frenzy

Dear Frenzy,

Wow, three hours. Honestly, you’re not obligated to keep them occupied – that’s their parents’ job – but there are some ways you can help. Kids – and parents – like, and live by schedules. So be sure to let them know what’s going on and when, and ask the parents what their kids’s schedules would normally look like. Nap times, breastfeeding times, lunch times, etc. You may not be able to fully accommodate them, but the discussion can also help them figure out how to accommodate YOU. Having healthy snacks and drinks available during the down time is also a good idea, but again, check with Mom and Dad.  And really? Three hours goes pretty quickly. Just keep everyone on the same page.

See you at the end of the aisle,

Liz Coopersmith

Got a wedding question of your own? Go to the contact page and let me know what’s up, or email me directly at liz@silvercharmevents.com.