Junior Bridesmaid Duties in Detail
So how does the junior bridesmaid fit into the bridal party picture? Here are her to-dos.
A girl (typically aged 9 to 14) who is too old to be a flower girl and too young to be a full-fledged bridesmaid can join up as a junior bridesmaid. Younger members of the bridal party often treat their roles with great seriousness and love to get in on the action. Here are some of the junior bridesmaid's traditional duties:
- While junior bridesmaids are not expected to give showers, they should plan to attend and help out with cleaning up, favormaking, and more.
- At bride's request, go wedding gown shopping and give input (especially if the junior bridesmaid is a sister or daughter).
- Buy a dress similar (or the same) in color and style to the bridesmaids', plus a matching corsage (or bouquet).
- Attend the ceremony rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.
- Help out the ushers by seating guests.
- Hand out programs at the ceremony or bubbles, confetti, rice, and other send-off props afterwards.
- Walk down the aisle in the procession, and stand at the altar/stage along with the other attendants.
- Stand in the receiving line, if requested by the bride.
- Write to the bride and her parents to thank them for including her.
If the Bridesmaid Is Your Child
When the junior bridesmaid is your own child, here are some special activities to make her feel even more a part of the festivities:
- Escort the bride down the aisle and stand with her at the altar.
- Read a poem (perhaps one that she wrote or chose herself) or other passages.
- Perform a song or dance or play a musical instrument during the ceremony.
- Participate in a "family vows" exchange: After the couple swaps marriage vows, the kids gather around. The groom then pledges to take care of the bride's children, and the bride promises to take care of his.
