These weddings are named for Tom Thumb, a dwarf in P. T. Barnum’s circus, who married Lavinia Warren in an elaborate ceremony in Manhattan in 1863. Historically, churches and various organizations later held Tom Thumb weddings as youth activities or fund raisers.  In these wedding pageants, small children, usually under ten years old, play all of the major wedding roles. In a Tom Thumb wedding, children are assigned to portray the bride, groom, attendants, and sometimes the minister. Smaller children would sometimes play the flower girls and ring-bearers. Usually, everyone would be costumed, and there would usually be many photographs.

The 10-year-old couple will probably not abide by most of the vows. However, the Tom Thumb “wedding” was an opportunity for them to have fun. It also allowed 20 other children, ages 1 to 10, to experience something different. Different because, unlike in other mock weddings held nationwide, the children dressed up in tuxedos and bridal gowns.  It also focuses on the importance of friendship.

During last weekend’s event, the 10yr old minister asked the bridegroom: “Do you promise to take Nyla to the movies?”  “Do you promise to buy her popcorn and bonbons if she wants them?” The minister asks – Do you promise to let Matthew play his Play Station 5 in peace? Do you promise to push him in the swing when you are in the park?”  The 10yr old minister concluded the ceremony. He announced to the guests, “Nyla and Matthew have vowed to be kind to each other. They will share their childhood as friends.”

Staging Tom Thumb weddings was a big American fad during the 1920s. However, they were also staged fairly regularly until the 1970s.  Well, these weddings appear to be back in style!

Last weekend’s Tom Thumb wedding was a success.