Flower Girls: A Step-by-step!

There's no better way to recognize that special little girl in your life than by asking her to be the flower girl at your wedding. Whether she is your niece, cousin, friend's daughter, or even little sister, your flower girl will feel honored and proud that you chose her to represent you on your special day.

Her delight in participating in your wedding will be enhanced by the gorgeous dress she gets to wear. Little girls love to play "dress-up," and when they are dressing up for a real occasion, it is that much more fun!

With so many beautiful styles to choose from, you will no doubt find a flower girl dress that complements or enhances the attire of your other attendants. But before you begin to search for that perfect dress, you must choose which child you will ask to wear it.

Maturity is the most important factor when considering who would make an appropriate flower girl. The general age range of most flower girls is between four and ten years old, although age is not always indicative of maturity level. There are children younger than four who would make well-mannered flower girls, depending upon their level of maturity.

Keep in mind, also, that girls over the age of ten generally feel more comfortable as junior bridesmaids.

When you and your fiance have agreed upon whom you want to ask, first speak to the child's parents. Make sure that they understand the extensive time commitment involved, as well as the financial aspects of buying her dress. Usually the flower girl is expected to attend all rehearsals and other wedding-related activities -- this may also mean that her parents must attend as well.

Once these details have been taken care of, you can start shopping for the flower girl dress that conveys the right amount of beauty, innocence, and charm. With so many styles to choose from, area children's clothing stores have a few suggestions that you should consider before beginning your search.

They recommend that you have at least a vague idea about what look you are going for. With so many colors, patterns, and materials to choose from, it helps to have a few of these details already narrowed down. For final ideas, many stores have brochures and books of dresses that you can look through.

In case you decide to order a dress as opposed to purchasing one off the rack, know the child's size and measurements (chest, waist, nape of neck to the floor). Some stores take as little as one week to order a dress, while others may take three to four months. This time difference is very important when dealing with growing little girls, so find out specifics before you place an order. If you are buying from a reputable shop, the sales associates should be able to dictate how much allowance you should give for the little girl's growth spurts.

Area shops have also detected a few trends in recent wedding seasons. One very popular idea is for the flower girl to be dressed as a miniature bride, in all white, carrying a mini-bouquet and wearing a veil. A colored ribbon or sash is used to add accent color and tie the flower girl in with the rest of the attendants.

Plain cotton and silk dresses that can be dressed up with details such as beads are popular for their versatility and lightweight material, the latter which is very helpful in hot weather. Any parents will tell you that children's clothing is not cheap, and they will appreciate your selection of a dress that can double as a First Communion or Easter outfit.

Other options include a flower girl dress that matches the bridesmaids' gowns, or a pretty floral print in colors that coordinate with the rest of the bridal party.

Accessories include floral wreaths and decorative barrettes, as well as the traditional basket of flower petals to be sprinkled as she walks down the aisle. Sometimes flower girls carry a bouquet or a basket of whole flowers to add a different twist.

At the rehearsal, let your flower girl walk up and down the aisle alone several times so that she can get used to having all eyes on her. The more at ease she is with receiving attention, the more well-behaved she will be on the big day.

Plan the ceremony so that after the flower girl has walked down the aisle, she can go sit with her parents. This way she will not have to stand still at the altar, which is usually impossible for young children.

Even with all of these details to take care of, choosing a dress for your favorite little girl is an exciting experience that culminates on your wedding day. In her gorgeous dress and with her cheeks flushed, she will inspire you to reflect the youthful beauty she embodies.