Tips for Having Kids at Your Wedding

To have kids at your wedding, or not to have kids at your wedding: that is the question. There are pros and cons to each choice, and it is totally up to you and your fiancé. If you decide to invite children to your wedding, there are some things you can do to make your life (and their parents’ lives) easier.

Children in Your Wedding

Having children in your wedding adds the cuteness factor and immediately brightens everyone’s day, even if it’s because they get lost walking down the aisle. However, being a flower girl or a ring bearer is a big responsibility for a child! Thank them with a sweet gift. A gift will show them how much you loved having them be a part of your special day. You could also use this as a “reward” for a job well done.

Ceremony Time

If the majority of your guests are bringing children, it’s a good idea to have the ceremony start as early as possible. Keeping the children on their schedules will minimize any possible tantrums. You don’t want your guests to have to leave early because it’s bedtime!

Venue

If you’re getting married during a season of favorable weather, choosing an outdoor venue is a great option for kids! There’s much more room for them to run around and play with each other. Plus, who doesn’t want to be outside enjoying the spring, summer, or fall weather?

Melt Downs

Do you want to have all the kids you love at your wedding, but worry about a mid-ceremony melt down? Have a plan of action with your officiant. They can offer guests a gentle reminder before the ceremony begins, telling them it’s perfectly alright to step out if needed.

Dinner

Let’s talk about a kid friendly dinner. If you’re serving a gourmet menu, talk to your caterer about offering a kid friendly option. No parent wants to be having the “eat your dinner” fight at a wedding. If most of the children attending are over 5, you could also have a dedicated kids table. This will give their parents a chance to socialize with the adults at their table. In addition, the kids will be entertained with meeting new friends. One other thing to think about is providing cups with lids for the younger children. Make it fun for them and personalize the cups so they can take them home!

Extras

If you really want to go above and beyond for your younger guests, provide additional activities for them like a bubble station, cornhole (if they can get the adults to stop playing), a cute kids tent, a piñata or a photo booth! Another great idea is gifting each child a basket full of “toys.” Think disposable cameras, wedding themed coloring books, Legos, jigsaw puzzles, and sticker books! Remember you can personalize almost anything to commemorate your wedding.

Keep in mind that taking care of the children is primarily the parents responsibility. Do not feel pressured to go over the top for the kids, but having kid friendly options is a nice touch that will be greatly appreciated by your guests.