There are a few typical perspectives regarding children at weddings,
from the idea that weddings are family affairs to the idea that it's a
solemn occasion for adults. No matter what your position is, whether
you're the bride, groom, or guest, there are ways to compromise.
Bridal Concerns About Children
Brides and grooms who have concerns about children at weddings aren't
anti-child. They have planned this day meticulously for months, maybe
even years. Children can be a bit of a wild card when it comes to social
events, especially a lengthy, detailed wedding ceremony or at a
late-night cocktail reception.
Hiring a Babysitter
If you think that asking parents to leave children at home will create
tension within your family or friend circle, consider hiring a
babysitter if you have the budget. Many churches and reception halls
have areas set aside for children. Parents won't have to leave their
children at home and you won't have to worry about whether children
might be disruptive.
Including Children
If you have no qualms about having children at the wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind, from ideas to including children in the wedding to keeping them entertained during the ceremony or reception.
- Young children may be bored. Supply coloring books, crayons and
other activities that might keep them amused for a few hours. This is a
good task to assign a bridesmaid or a reliable friend.
- Young children might not appreciate wedding food. Prepare for
picky children and ask the catering company to offer substitute meals
for children.
- Children get sleepy at long receptions. Request a few back to back
slow songs to give parents a nudge to take kids home. You might even
ask parents ahead of time to remove children by a certain time.
- Consider adding roles for children in your wedding. Besides flower
girl and the ring bearer, kids can usher and distribute favors to
guests.
- Ask the photographer to make a children's gallery of the kids in attendance.
Whether or not there should be kids at weddings is entirely up to the
bride and groom. If they decide they would rather not invite children,
please respect their wishes. Just as the couple has the choice on who to
invite, the guests can choose whether or not to attend. Couples should
understand when guests decline due to the no child policy, and guests
should decline with no hard feelings if they feel they can't attend.
