Everything You Need to Know About Junior Bridesmaids

Too old to be a flower girl but too young to be a bridesmaid, a junior bridesmaid fills in the gap between the other female attendants. If there's a young girl who's special to you, consider asking her to be in your wedding in this role instead. Here are answers to common questions about this specific member of the bridal party.

What's the age range?

Junior bridesmaids are between approximately 9 to 15 years old and are typically relatives (sister, niece, cousin) of the couple or the children of very close friends.

What does she wear?

She should wear the same dress as the bridesmaids if it's age appropriate; if it's not, ask your bridal shop if the dress can be altered so it's more youthful (but not so youthful that it resembles the flower girl's). If you're not interested in matching dresses, look for designers that offer a collection specifically for junior bridesmaids and find something you love that complements the rest of the wedding.

What are her responsibilities?

She performs many of the same duties as her older counterparts-helping with invitations (junior bridesmaids on the younger side can be in charge of adhering stamps), putting together favors, attending wedding events (bridal shower, lunch, tea, rehearsal, rehearsal dinner, ceremony, and reception), helping with any post-party cleanup. The one event she doesn't attend is the bachelorette party, whether it's dinner at a local restaurant or a weekend in Miami.

When does she walk down the aisle?

Typically, she leads the procession, which would mean she walks ahead of the bridesmaids. Like the other females in the bridal party, she stands at the altar with the group during the ceremony.

Who does she sit with at the reception?

Depending on her personality and age, she can either sit with the members of the bridal party or with her parents or, if she's under 12, at the kids' table.

Should she get a different thank-you gift from the bride?

Like her dress, her gift needs to be age-appropriate it. Necklaces, bracelets, and monogrammed totes make great gifts for all the ladies in your party.