Involving family, special friends and/or children in a wedding ceremony can be a meanin​gful and personal addition. Here are some ideas on ways to do it:

• Include them in the bridal party

• Ask them to be a flower girl or page boy (this is a lovely way to incorporate children, nieces and nephews, or even grandmothers!)

• They can be a witness (as long as they are over 18 years)

• Do a reading in the ceremony

• Help with the planning of the wedding

• Sing a song or play an instrument before, during or after the ceremony

• ‘Ring bearer’ – someone to hold and present the rings

• Coordinate the music

• Greet and usher guests at the venue

• Be part of any rituals in the ceremony (there are many rituals that are wonderful ways to incorporate children especially if there is a blending of families including a sand ceremony, warming of the rings or a release of butterflies.)

• Hand out anything applicable (programs, bubbles, petals etc.)