Kids at the wedding... A Balanced Guide
- Tammy
- Dec 5
- 4 min read
When planning a wedding, one of the big questions couples face is: Should kids be invited? For some, the laughter of little ones and the joy they bring is an essential part of the day. For others, a child-free celebration allows for a more relaxed and adult-focused event. If you're grappling with this decision, we've broken down the pros, cons, and how to navigate having kids at your wedding to ensure a great day for all.
Reasons to Include Kids at Your Wedding
A Family-Centered Atmosphere
If you have close family and friends with young children, inviting them can make the day feel more inclusive. Weddings are often about celebrating love and family, and kids bring a special energy and joy to the day.
Adorable Moments
Kids walking down the aisle as flower girls or ring bearers can be some of the most memorable and heartwarming parts of the ceremony.
It Can Make Attending Easier for Parents
Many parents struggle to find babysitters for an entire day or weekend. Allowing kids at the wedding can help guests with young children feel more relaxed and able to attend.
Reasons to Go Child-Free
A More Formal Atmosphere
If you're envisioning an elegant, adults only celebration, kids running around or crying during key moments might detract from the ambiance.
Minimizing Disruptions
Children can sometimes be unpredictable...think tantrums during vows or wandering onto the dance floor during speeches.
Budget Considerations
More guests (including kids) can mean higher catering costs and additional seating arrangements. Some couples choose a child free event to keep costs down.
Allows Parents to Let Loose
A child-free wedding gives parents a rare opportunity to relax, socialize, and enjoy the evening without worrying about their little ones.
If Kids Are Coming: How to Make It Fun for Everyone
If you decide to include kids, making the day enjoyable for both children and their parents is key. Here are some ideas to keep everyone happy:
Entertainment for Kids
Set Up a Kids' Zone
Create a dedicated space at the venue with age appropriate games, activities, and crafts. Include things like coloring books, puzzles, and building blocks to keep kids entertained.
Hire a Babysitter or Childcare Service
Bringing in professional childcare can allow parents to enjoy the festivities while knowing their kids are safe and entertained. Some wedding childcare providers bring toys, games, and even organize group activities.
Provide Outdoor Games
If your wedding has outdoor space, set up lawn games such as:
Giant Jenga
Cornhole
Farm Hoppers - If you're in a spot where they have an outdoor space, these little bouncy critters will have kids of all sizes, (and ages in some cases), busy for hours.
Bubble stations - the bigger the wands the better!
Bug Catchers - I cannot tell you how much they LOVE this if you're at a venue with an outdoor space. They will catch ALL the grasshoppers, name them, feed them, and show them to everyone all night long.
Organize a Movie or Quiet Time Area
Create a cozy corner with soft blankets, pillows, and a projector or screen showing kid friendly movies. It's a great way to keep little ones occupied, especially during speeches or dinner.
Activity Packs or Favor Bags
Prepare personalized activity bags with crayons, small toys, stickers, or snacks. Hand them out as kids arrive or leave them at their seats.
Photo by: Element Photo Co.
Tips for Making It Enjoyable for Parents
Communicate Early
Let parents know in advance that kids are welcome and share any special plans you have for keeping them entertained.
Offer Kid Friendly Meals
Most kids aren’t excited about gourmet cuisine. Include simple, kid-approved meals like chicken fingers, mac and cheese, or pizza.
Provide Flexible Seating
Arrange family friendly tables with enough space for highchairs and strollers. I like to put the highchairs on an end of a table to help make it easier for getting them in and out of them.
Keep Speeches and Formalities Short
Parents will appreciate a ceremony and speeches that are concise so they can tend to their kids if needed. Often one parent will be at the back with the kids and then easily slip away if someone has trouble using their inside voices ;)
Offer a Babysitting Option for Later in the Evening
Consider hiring babysitters for the evening portion of the wedding so kids can wind down while parents hit the dance floor.
Finding Childcare for the Wedding
Hiring childcare professionals can be a game changer when kids are invited to your wedding. Here are some suggestions:
Wedding Babysitter Agencies: Look for agencies that specialize in event childcare. These professionals can entertain kids, supervise nap times, and keep everything running smoothly. We have a few fun and trusted childcare providers who love to do this sort of thing on the weekends, and they bring ALL the fun!
Teenage Babysitters: Consider hiring responsible teens from within your family or friends’ circles to help supervise the kids' area. We also have a few of these on speed dial!
Final Thoughts
Deciding whether or not to invite kids to your wedding is a personal choice that depends on your vision for the day. If you choose to include them, a little planning goes a long way in ensuring everyone from toddlers to grandparents has a great time. Whether it's through fun games, activity stations, or professional babysitters, making the day enjoyable for kids will ensure parents can relax, celebrate, and create lasting memories with you.
Ultimately, whether kids are in attendance or not, your wedding will be a beautiful day filled with love and joy and that's what matters most.
Much love,
Tam xo
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