Preparation
If you’re already a parent on your wedding day and want to acknowledge your kids in a special way, think about including them in your vows. Whether you have youngsters from previous relationships or have children together, including these little ones will likely be one part of the wedding they’ll remember for the rest of their lives. See if one of these ideas feels right to you.
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Talk about your commitment to the marriage and to the kids, then pledge to respect and love one another and your families.
After your vows to each other, make a separate vow to the children, acknowledging your family status and your commitment to love and support these new family members. If you’ll be a stepfamily, talk about your happiness at blending two families into one.
This obviously only works with older kids who can read and feel comfortable speaking in front of a crowd. Even if they’ve memorized their vows, which you’ve helped them write, have a copy on hand in case jittery nerves make them forget the words.
After you and your groom exchange vows, the officiant could read kid-friendly vows to the young ones, to which they respond “I do!” Practice with them and, at the ceremony, be prepared to give them a sign that it’s time to say their line.
That will make them feel part of the proceedings. Make sure that they have the stamina and maturity to stand for the length of the ceremony. If they do, consider asking them to take over traditional best man and maid-of-honor duties during the vows, such as handing over the rings or holding the bride’s bouquet.
