What order do bridesmaids walk down the aisle?

[butterfly86]

We are having a civil ceremony in a hotel so doesn't have to be traditional I would like to go with what works/looks the best. I have 2 bridesmaids aged 9 & 12 no adults although the 12 year old thinks she is 22! And 2 pageboys aged 3 & 7 I'm thinking of giving the 3 year old a shabby chic here comes the bride sign to hold. What order would you have them going down in? I've thought 9yo bm & 3yo pb then 12yo bm & 7 yo pb or possibly 9yo 3yo & 7yo all going down together then 12yo going after them on her own then me and dad. Any suggestions welcome!

[Pandemoniaa]

Speaking from experience - I had one bridesmaid, my 2.6 year old dgd - I'd be inclined to put the youngest one somewhere they can't escape! Which is why my bridesmaid came in next to me, holding my hand as I came in on ds2's arm. Also, be aware that a 3 year old may decide they aren't prepared to hold anything no matter how cute it would look. Given the age range, I think I'd be inclined to have the three younger ones going down together followed by the 12 year old. That way, if the 3 year old gets cold feet at the last minute you'd not be left with an uneven straggle.

[Onesleeptillwembley]

Usually chief bridesmaid and oldest or tallest directly behind the bride, then down in height order, littlest at the back.

[parachutesarefab]

Depends on the bms and pbs. I'd probably work out which one of the others could best look after the 3yo, and go for 2 pairs. Knowing nothing about the children, I'd go 12 & 3, 9 & 7, but any combination would work.

[butterfly86]

Thank you, I think i might go with the 3 younger ones followed by 12 year old, the 3 yo & 9 yo are related so he is likely to behave better if he walks down with her. Good to hear what other people would do I was worried it would be a bit random doing 3 then 1!