Children in Your Ceremony: 3 Heartfelt Considerations
Your wedding day is all about love, connection, and celebrating the people who mean the most to you—and that often includes the little ones in your life. Whether you’re blending families, already have children together, or simply adore your nieces and nephews, involving kids in your wedding ceremony can add a layer of sweetness and meaning that touches every heart in the crowd.
As a Brisbane wedding celebrant who has witnessed countless ceremonies both big and small, I’ve seen just how magical it can be when children are included in the celebration. If you’re planning a family-centred wedding on the Gold Coast or in Brisbane, here are the top three things to consider when involving children in your ceremony.
1. Give Them a Role That Suits Their Age and Personality
Children love to feel part of something special—especially on such a big day. Choosing a role that’s age-appropriate (and temperament-friendly) helps them feel confident and included without the pressure.
Popular roles include:
Flower girl or page boy
Ring bearer
Junior bridesmaid or groomsman
Reader or vow assistant (especially sweet for older kids)
Let your celebrant know ahead of time if children will be involved so they can guide the flow of the ceremony and help ease any nerves. A Brisbane or Gold Coast wedding celebrant experienced in family-focused ceremonies will know how to gently support your young guests with kindness and patience.
2. Involve Them in the Ceremony Wording or Ritual
There’s something truly touching about involving children in the spoken or symbolic elements of your wedding ceremony. You could invite them to join in a family vow or a unity ritual like:
Sand ceremonies (each person pours a different coloured sand into one vessel)
Tree planting or candle lighting
Personalised vows to your children
As a celebrant, I love helping couples write a short vow or promise to their children as part of their ceremony—especially in blended families. It can be as simple as promising to love and support them always, and it often leads to very happy tears!
3. Plan for Wiggles, Giggles and Wobbles
Let’s be honest—kids will be kids, even on wedding days! Be prepared for giggles at the wrong time, a bit of stage fright, or an unexpected mid-ceremony snack break. The best approach? Embrace it.
When your celebrant helps set a relaxed, family-friendly tone, it allows everyone to enjoy the moment without worrying about perfection. Whether you're working with a Gold Coast wedding celebrant by the sea or a Brisbane celebrant in a chapel or park, the key is to create a ceremony that’s flexible and welcoming to little personalities.
And don’t forget—have a trusted friend or relative nearby who can whisk children away after their big moment if needed, so they can relax and you can continue your vows distraction-free.
Final Thought …
Your wedding ceremony should feel like home—filled with love, laughter, and the people who make your world complete. Including children in your ceremony adds a beautiful, personal touch that reflects not just the beginning of your marriage, but the heart of your family.
Whether you’re planning an elegant Gold Coast ceremony or a laid-back Brisbane celebration, the right celebrant will help you weave every meaningful detail—big and small—into your love story.