I couldn’t sleep the other night and caught the most adorable movie on TV, Little Manhattan. It’s the story of a kid who falls in love for the first time. Dave liked it too, so it’s not just for chicks.

The reason I’m writing about it is because the love interest, I think she’s 10, agreed to be the flower girl in her aunt’s wedding. But she was 5 when she agreed to it and feels awkward about it being a 10-year-old flower girl.

While you may know of a little boy or girl you plan to ask to be your ring bearer or flower girl, you should think about his or her age before you ask them. Don’t just assume they’ll do it.

Really little ones — under 4 or 5 — may not be able to make it down the aisle themselves. You may need a parent, or close relative they know well to either stand at the end of the aisle so they walk to them, or have an adult walk with them. You don’t want them to freeze or throw a tantrum in the middle of the aisle. That’s not fair to the child, their parents or you.

Older children may be able to walk down the aisle themselves, but you may want to ask their opinions on the outfit you choose for them. The older they are the more likely they will not be a happy camper in an outfit they think is too young for them.

Once girls get to be tweens and teens they’ve out grown the role of flower girl and the title of junior bridesmaid is more appropriate.

But before you ask any child to be in your wedding, talk to their parents. They will know if their kids will really be comfortable being the center of attention for those few moments. And don’t force the issue. Parents who say, "no thanks" are probably doing you a huge favor.