Image Source: Kevin Weinstein Photography
Your rings deserves a grand entrance and an adorable ring bearer may be your answer. And your photographer will love it! However, depending on the child's age and level of maturity some adjustments may need to be made to insure your special wedding rings actually make it to the alter.Determining If Your Little Boy Is Old Enough To Be A Ring BearerIf you are unsure if your ring bearer is up to the challenge try asking yourself these questions. If the answers are yes, than congratulations, you found your little man. If your answers are split consider swapping out the real wedding bands for props. If the answers are no, definitely swap out the real wedding bands for props.1. Are you having a short ceremony?2. Is he able to follow instructions?3. Is he shy?4. Does he show signs of stranger danger?5. Can you sneak an activity and snack for him by the alter (yes, iphone games count...on silent mode, and the food should be something that doesn't stain)?6. Is there a place for him to sit?7. Is a parent in the bridal party able to walk with him if he gets nervous?8. Is the ceremony time during a nap time?9. Can you be prompt starting the ceremony, limiting the amount of time waiting around?10. Is there an area to let him run off some energy before the ceremony?Tips For Preparing Your Ring BearerIf you have determined that your ring bearer is old enough to handle the responsibility here are some tips for helping them prepare for the big day:1. Invest in a board book to teach him about being a ring bearer months in advance.2. Kids learn through play, in the weeks leading up to the big day have fun playing 'ring bearer' as he walks down a mock aisle. Showing him that the day will be fun is great preparation.3. Reinforce how important he is to the wedding with lots of positive comments.4. During the rehearsal, let his body language and mood determine the amount of practice he gets. Remember, his attention spans is short and you want to keep the entire experience positive and fun! When he starts to loose interest reward him for doing a good job with praise and a yummy treat.5. Reassure him that mommy or daddy will be right there if he needs them. Having a parent in the ceremony or seated in the front row can help alleviate anxiety.6. Go with the flow! Mishaps will happen on your wedding day and having a child involved in the ceremony increases your risks. Taking these hiccups in stride can turn an embarrassing or frustrating moment into a funny story to tell for years to come.Creative Ideas For Ring BearersLong gone are the days of satin pillows. Have fun with some of these creative ideas.
Source: Hello Studio Wedding Photography
- The 'Sign' Bearer -
A great alternative to actually carrying the rings, is to have your ring bearer carry a sign instead. In additional to being very cute there is less chance of loosing your special wedding bands if they do not actually carry them.
Source: The Knotty Bride and Photography By Jenna Rae
- Pillow Alternatives -
If you do want your ring bearer to carry the rings, make sure you have a SECURE box like this DIY project like this from The Knotty Bride.
Source: Rooted In Love Weddings Blog
- The Costume Change -
Here is a fun costume change idea for hot summer weddings where suits can be too hot for your little boy. After the official photographs have been taken change him into a cool comfortable outfit.
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