Planning your free wedding ceremony - and having children
Then one thing is clear: they are part of it. And not just because they are somehow ‘there’, but because they are an important part of your story. Maybe you already have children together. Maybe one of you is bringing a child with you. Maybe you've been living together as a family for a long time. No matter how - you can show this in a free wedding ceremony. And in a way that suits you: without kitsch, without pressure, without ‘they have to perform something now’. But genuine, with heart and in a setting that reflects your family.
Here are 10 well thought-out ideas on how you can include children in your free wedding ceremony - with real added value for you and the little ones.
1. Joint Entry
If you are not just a couple, but a family, then show this from the very beginning. Involve your children in the free wedding ceremony. Instead of the traditional entrance of the bride or groom, you can walk in together with your children. Whether you enter as a foursome, individually, with the children in your arms or by the hand - do it the way it feels right. This also takes the pressure off and relaxes the start of the ceremony. And it immediately shows that we belong together.
2. Children are given a small task
Children love it when they are allowed to take on responsibility - as long as it remains child-orientated. This could be carrying the rings, a small sign with an inscription (e.g. ‘Here comes the bride; Daddy, here comes the love of your life’ or something humorous: Here comes the bride; Daddy, here comes the love of your life or something humorous), handing out flowers or giving a symbol. The important thing is that it should feel good for your child and not just be a show. Better simple and clear than over-staged.
3. Say a few personal words to the children
As part of your wedding vows or at another appropriate moment, you can address your children directly. This can be a short, honest sentence such as: ‘You are part of us - and we will always be there for you.’ If you don't trust your own voice because of all the emotions, I can also create a wedding vow for you that includes your children and their importance to you, a family vow so to speak.
4. Creating a family ritual
A ritual turns theory into an experience. For a free wedding ceremony with family, for example, a sand ritual in which everyone fills a different colour into the glass or a time capsule is a good idea. There are countless possibilities here. If you like rituals, we can come up with something personalised to suit you and your children (and their ages).
5. If they want to: say something themselves
Some children want to contribute something themselves - a short wish, a few sentences read aloud or simply a sentence from the heart. If the child feels like it, they can have this space. If not, that's just as fine. It's about voluntariness, not performance.
6. create a memento together
Something that will remind you of this day even after the wedding can be a powerful symbol. For example, a family certificate with signatures or fingerprints, a small work of art or a box in which everyone contributes something symbolic. It will become something that connects you again later.
7. Include music with a family connection
Whether it's your child's favourite song, a song that you dance to as a family or an instrumental piece with meaning - music connects. And it creates space for emotion without many words. Especially when moving out or during a ritual, this can create a relaxed yet intense atmosphere.
8. A little gesture for the child
It doesn't have to be a big gift - but a small symbol that shows: You belong here too. Perhaps a pendant, a bracelet or a personalised letter. It's not about material things, but about the child having a positive memory of this day - because they feel that they were part of the whole.
9. A place where children feel comfortable
Young children in particular don't want to or can't sit still for 30 to 45 minutes. And they don't have to. Let small children run around and make sure they have a seat in the front row so that they can be right up front. For example, with cushions on the floor. A shady spot at the side with a colouring book, favourite character or small snacks also helps them to feel seen and occupied - without having to pretend. It's best to organise someone to look after the children, at least if they are small, so that you don't have to check on them all the time. This will make the free wedding ceremony with children more relaxed for everyone.
10. Walking out of the ceremony together
Moving out is often an emotional highlight. If you do it together with your children instead of as a couple, you send a strong, clear message: We are starting this new chapter as a family. Without any staging, but with a real impact.
Conclusion
Children don't make a free wedding ceremony complicated, they bring it to life. They bring in what no planned symbolism can replace: real connection. If you include them - in a setting that suits their age and nature - your wedding ceremony will not only be more personal, but also unforgettable. For you. And for them.
You are planning a free wedding ceremony? With children?
As a Wedding Officiant in Cyprus I accompany many couples with child(ren) - whether patchwork, bonus family or classic. I will help you to create a free wedding ceremony with childrenthat really suits you.
❤️ Individual
🤍 Without kitsch
🌞 And preferably with sun and sea views.
📩 Get in touch now for a non-binding introductory meeting - online or directly in Cyprus.
