As couples plan their wedding ceremonies, one thing to consider, if children are present, is how to include them in the ceremony. It is not only a beautiful idea but essential to include the children, which represents not only the unity of the couple in marriage but the unity of the family at the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
There are so many ways to include your children in your wedding ceremony. Here are some of the ways that I have done, am discussing with couples and more.
Handfasting
The Celtic ritual that gave us the expression ‘tying the knot’. A variation of this is to ask the children to tie different coloured ribbons to the couples ribbon. The children will thoroughly enjoy being ‘tied to’ their parents for brief period of the ceremony.
Sand Ceremony
A beautiful ritual to represent the unity of two people that cannot be broken. Enhance the ceremony to include multiple coloured sands for each of your children. The blending of the sands represents the unity of the family. This can be kept as lovely memento of the occasion.
Unity Candles
Involving them in a symbolic candle lighting can be a good way to include them. You can do this any number of ways. If the children are small the couple can light small candles for each of them and they can light the centre candle with help from the grown ups. If the children are older each child can light their own candle, and then light the centre candle together as a family. It may seem a small task, but to a child, this is an amazing opportunity.
Ring Exchange
Involving your children in your ring exchange can be a very special and memorable way include your children one of the most important parts of your wedding ceremony. So many ways to do this. Your eldest son as your best man. A younger child bringing up the rings at the start of the ceremony. Holding your child’s hand in yours are the ring is placed on your finger.
Wedding Vows
Writing your own vows is a lovely idea, and a great way to say some special words about your children. No matter what their age (even teenagers) they will no doubt be so happy to hear your nice words. And will be something they no doubt cherish for a lifetime.
Time Capsule
During the ceremony, each member of the family can place an item in the capsule, something meaningful to them, and alternatively, each family member can write a note about their hopes and dreams for the future, or about what it means to be a member of the family. These can be opened on a date agreed by the family.