Weddings With Kids

five questions to ask yourself

1. What percentage of your guests have kids? What is the average age of their kids? If you look at your guest list and a large percentage of guests have kids they’re probably more likely to join in the festivities. The reality is babies and toddlers are harder to entertain than older kids so if you’re including little ones you’re going to want to get creative.
2. Are you planning a destination wedding? It’s a lot easier for parents to schedule the regular babysitter for a night compared to finding childcare for a whole weekend. If you’re inviting parents out-of-town for a solo weekend give them as much time as possible to plan.
3. Do people in your wedding party have kids? A lot of times couples will make exceptions to their “no kids” policy for their wedding party. Personally, I think it’s hard to draw the line and becomes an all or nothing kinda thing quickly. Nieces and nephews of the couple only is one way to go unless that is a big number.
4. Can you spring for childcare at the wedding? If the average age of your guests’ kids is 5-11 one of my favorite things to do is set up a kids area and man it with a sitter who can keep an eye on everyone.  
5. Will you be disappointed if your guests with kids don’t come? If the answer is yes, have an honest conversation with them and ask what they would prefer. 

IF YOU DECIDE A WEDDING WITH KIDS IS FOR YOU…

Feed Them 

I like to say that kids act out when parents kinda want to but know it’s not socially acceptable. When a toddler gets hangry, watch out. For a wedding with kids stock up on their favorite snacks and have on hand for the getting ready and photography moments of the day.  

If you asked my 3.5 year old right now what her favorite food is she’d reply oysters. Last night she took down 8 before I had to claim my portion. She’s a New England beach baby. No one is expecting oysters for their kids at your wedding but have something nutritious on hand and stay away from sugar. The sugar crash is real and frightening.  

Entertain Them 

I have to be honest nothing makes me more frustrated than a table of kids all staring at their iphones in silence. At a wedding or a restaurant we have to teach our kids to talk to each other and us, not tune the world out. I could go on and on and on about this one.

If you decide on a wedding with kids, entertain them! That could be as simple as letting them help you cut the cake or creating a scavenger hunt within the reception venue. My favorite kids’ activities are in my Amazon shop. 

Take Photos With Them 

My guilty pleasure is British tabloids and following the royal family. I know it’s totally ridiculous but they are my Kardashians. And one thing they do right at weddings is large bridal parties with kids and adorable photos with all the little ones. The unscripted moments with kids are priceless!

{image credit: Callie Hobbs Photography}