Monday, April 28, 2008

Alternatives To The Flower Girl Basket

Nothing is cuter than a little girl prancing down the aisle, thinking she’s a princess. To make her even more adorable, it is important to find the perfect item for her to carry down the aisle. Traditionally, the flower girl’s role was to toss petals in the path of the bride or carry a basket filled with flowers. However, modern brides want their wedding to be memorable and like to add unique touches to enhance their theme and personalities, even with their flower girls. Here are some suggestions to finding the perfect match for your special little girl.

Kissing Balls – Also known as pomanders, these are a nice floral alternative to the basket. It is a round ball of flowers carried by the ribbon to which it is attached. They are great for older girls who want something sophisticated, or for younger girls who may be awkward or destructive with a basket. Kissing balls tend to be heavy, however, so make sure you match its size to the size of your flower girl.

Bells – As an Irish custom, bells are rung to chase away evil spirits, remind the couple of their wedding vows, and create peace between a fighting couple. Having the flower girl ring bells as she walks down the aisle would be a nice way to incorporate Irish culture, and to add some happy sounds before the bride makes her entrance.

Wands - Make you girl into a fairy with a magic wand! Add streamers and glitter for an extra enchanting effect. This is an idea that will most likely not fall apart, not potentially make noise during the ceremony, and would be fun for the flower girl after her role is done.

Bubbles – Bubbles can create a magical and fun atmosphere. It is something unique and the flower girl will have fun blowing them! Be aware that the bubbles could spill and get on her beautiful dress, though.

Wreath – For a Christmas theme, a wreath can add to the festivities of the holiday. Even if you are not having a holiday wedding, a round or heart shaped floral wreath can be unique and a beautiful touch to any themed wedding.

Leaves – For a fall wedding, multi-colored dry leaves would add a festive touch to the processional. The flower girl can either use a basket to carry the leaves and have her sprinkle the leaves on the bride’s path, or have them in a bunch in lieu of a bouquet.

Galvanized buckets – Perfect for a garden wedding, galvanized buckets are becoming popular for centerpieces, pew decorations, and would be ideal for a flower girl to carry down the aisle. Fill them with flowers, leaves, apples, or any other item you choose. They even have a convenient handle to carry them by.

Lantern – Illuminating an evening wedding, the flower girl can walk a lantern down the aisle. This would be perfect for indoors or out, especially enhancing a candle and light themed wedding. Lanterns are definitely for older girls, as the gases or fire can be dangerous.

Wagon – Have your little one tote a wagon down the aisle for a youthful touch. It could be filled with flower petals, potted flowers, theme related trinkets, even a smaller child! You can leave the wagon undecorated for a classy look, or decorate it with flowers and tulle.

Fruits/Vegetables – These items can be very memorable for a fall wedding. Toting buckets of apples, corn cobs, or squashes will look very autumn-like and is a perfect addition to the theme.

Mini bouquet – Give her a mini bouquet that matches the bride’s or the bridesmaid’s flowers. This will make her feel very grown up and will create continuity in your bridal party.

Eggs – A basket full of colored eggs would be charming for an Easter or Spring wedding. You could color the eggs in your wedding colors or have the flower girl color them how she likes for a more personal touch.

Parasol – These little umbrellas will not only shade your flower girl, but she will look absolutely adorable carrying it. It will add a touch of the 18th century to your wedding and will surely draw ooh’s and ahh’s from the guests.

While choosing what your flower girl will be carrying down the aisle take into account her personality and what she will feel comfortable with. You can also add special touches by incorporating your theme. It will definitely bring out even more smiles as the little princess prances down the aisle.

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