Let's face it - when it comes to weddings, no one is thinking about the children. Unless they are part of the bridal party, then and only then are the poor little bride, little groom or page boy, flower girls and balloon girls considered, but only as props. I know this because I have been a little bride, a flower girl and a balloon girl, many, many, many times. I have been ignored and mostly forgotten only till it was time for photographs. No one cared if I was hungry or bored, no. As long as I behaved, looked sweet and pretty, and generally stayed out of the way, then the day could be declared a success. However, if I cried, or whined, or heaven forbid, threw a tantrum, then I could be credited with ruining that poor girl's wedding. And as an added bonus, would be reminded of said ruination, forever.
Well, I'm just going to come out and say it - it's not fair. It's not alright, and it sure as heck is not okay. I speak for children everywhere when I say, they are not props for photo ops. They are not available simply for your cheek-pulling amusement. No! They accepted the invitation to attend, and be a part of your bridal party, because they like you and want to celebrate with you on your big day.
Would it not be nice if you thought of them and coughed up a little extra to make them thankful to their Maker, their parents, and you, the lovely couple? How? Well, how about you put together a souvenir bag that will make all your little guests smile for the cameras without prompting. It's not rocket science, and it doesn't have to cost a lot of money. All you need is three special steps.
STEP 1: Get the packaging right. It must be colourful, and fun yet sturdy and safe. That means paper bags won't cut it. Why not? Kids tear paper. You'll get a mess and screaming kids with goodies spilled all over the floor. On the other hand, polythene bags are a big no-no. One word - suffocation. Try little buckets with lids, party packs, small gift boxes, and lunchboxes.
STEP 2: Fill it up with colourful things that will keep them busy, seated, and hopefully quiet. That's your goal - busy, seated, and quiet. Two out of three is acceptable. If you can shoot for only one, I say go for seated. Things like activity books, crayons or washable markers, stickers, small plush toys, or dolls or action figures. Balls are a no-no. They nullify the seated goal. So are toy firearms. They nullify the quiet rule. And the seated rule, come to think of it.
STEP 3: Treats are dicey. As an advocate for the rights of the child wedding guest, I would like to say "yes, please" to treats, but the fear of the sugar rush is the beginning of wisdom. So what do you do? Well, a little goes a long way - small portions, salty treats like crackers over sugary treats like chocolate chip cookies. Fruits are also a great way to dodge this bullet. Just pack them nicely and you should keep your little guests happy.
Now follow these three special steps and make the children smile at your wedding.