Eric, who was 7, served as best man. After Gail and Michael Sullivan exchanged vows, the minister asked the children if they would love, honor and respect their new stepmom. Striking a balance When young children take part in a wedding, it helps to be flexible and keep things simple. Instead, she went to sit with her grandpa. Sam Williams improvised, kneeling in front of the pew for that part of the ceremony.
Older children can help plan their roles.
They may light candles, read Scripture or pledge their love and support. When he placed it on the boy's finger, he said that the circle represented the family, and Mason was a chosen part of that circle. No one tallies how many weddings include children, but the Rev. Roger Coleman, an N.C. native who lives in Kansas City, Mo., sends out thousands of packets each year offering suggestions for such ceremonies. Coleman was doing courthouse weddings in the mid-'80s when he noticed how many brides and grooms brought their children. Often, the children came in enthusiastic but were cranky or rowdy by the time things were over.