A friend of mine asked me if my daughter could be her flower girl in her upcoming wedding. I was absolutely elated, thinking that it would be the most adorable thing in the world, so of course I said yes. My daughter would be just turning five and the perfect age for it. She's such a little girl and loves dressing up that I knew she would be thrilled.

My friend had picked out a dress that was a miniature version of her wedding gown and told me where to go get my daughter fitted. I eagerly took her there and saw the dress. I have to admit that it was absolutely adorable and she looked like an angel. However, when the salesperson asked if I wanted to pay for it in full or payments, I found out the cost. This perfect little dress was almost $230. My jaw dropped. I had not counted on such a high bill for just being a flower girl. I said that I would make payments and dashed out of the store. I never confronted my friend since it was her wedding and her choice, but I would have never agreed had I known what the costs were.

Weddings can be incredibly beautiful without a flower girl. Traditionally, a flower girl is between the ages of 4-8 years old. If you don't have any family members or friends having children around those ages, opt for not having a flower girl. Don't ask some random child or family just for the sake of having one. Lots of problems could arise that just aren't worth the hassle. Also, if you're asking someone to allow their child to be in your wedding party, try to pick out a flower girl dress that is priced reasonably. If you know that the family is on a tight budget, offer to pay for half of the cost for the dress if you have your heart set on one that is pricey.

My daughter looked glamorous in her super expensive flower girl dress on my friend's wedding day. I was nervous that she'd start crying or refuse to walk down the aisle. But, she surprised me. She walked slowly down the aisle, but forgot to drop the rose petals. I kept trying to motion to her that she was forgetting, but she was too focused on walking slowly and being a princess for the moment. Finally, when she reached the end of the aisle, she stopped and dumped out her basket. All of the petals fell in one place. Spectators laughed adoringly and softly. She made a great flower girl.

Pick your flower girl carefully. Having kids in your wedding can be fun and adorable, but a great deal of work as well. There could be more drama than you're hoping for. Choose your attendants wisely.