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What is Proper for My Flower Girl?

 bride; flower girl; wedding

As an etiquette consultant, I’ve answered wedding etiquette questions for over 20 years.  Interestingly, very few brides know what to do about their flower girls.  They don’t know how to dress them, how to include them in pre-wedding events, and what gift to give them.  Luckily, I have all the answers.  More than that, I have also included a wedding challenge quiz question buried somewhere in this article.  See if you can answer it correctly.

How should I dress my flower girl?

Dress your flower girl in age-appropriate attire similarly in style with other bridesmaids.  Since the proper age for a flower girl is between the ages of four and eight, safety and maneuverability are important as well.  Little ones could trip over a long skirt. 

Consider that she may hit a growth spurt so it’s best to choose a dress that can be ordered near to the wedding date. 

Her shoes should be flats and look like those worn by the bridesmaids.  Be sure and scuff them a bit before the wedding so she won’t slip.  (good tip for the entire party)

Additionally, please choose a reasonably priced dress since the mother of this little one is responsible for all her costs. 

What type of flowers should the flower girl carry?

During Roman times, the females in the bridal party – flower girl included – carried wheat, later replaced with herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits.  Today, the flower girl carries a variety of flowers to spread across the aisle.  Evil spirits are excluded from the guest list. 

Should the flower girl be invited to my pre-wedding parties?

The flower girl doesn’t have to be invited to all parties.  In fact, can you imagine an eight-year-old attending a bachelorette party?  Nevertheless, she could be invited to a bridal shower and should be invited to the rehearsal dinner. 

Please note that her mother always needs to accompany her. 

Wedding Challenge Quiz Question

Question: Traditionally, why did the women in the wedding – flower girl included – carry flowers? 

Answer: To ward off evil spirits

Share your thoughts and answers to the short quiz. 

More by The Polite One

Just the Facts: Wedding Etiquette Tips

Money-Saving Tips for Your Decorations and Flowers

The Polite One’s Wedding Money-Saving Tips 

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