Managing your small children at your wedding

Weddings are a celebration of love, and many couples want to include family members of all ages—including little ones. While children can bring joy and cuteness to your special day, they can also be unpredictable.

If you're inviting kids to your wedding, here are some ways to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.

1. Set Clear Expectations

Decide upfront whether you want a child-friendly wedding or prefer an adults-only affair. If kids are welcome, communicate this in your invitations and wedding website, letting parents know what to expect in terms of child-friendly accommodations.

2. Provide Entertainment

Small children can become restless during a long ceremony, so providing entertainment is key. Kids absolutely LOVE bubbles and even crying little ones can be distracted long enough with the magic of bubbles floating through the air. You could also consider setting up a designated kids’ area with coloring books, small toys, or quiet activities to keep them engaged while adults enjoy the event.

3. Hire a Childcare Professional

For a seamless experience, hiring a babysitter or childcare provider can be a game-changer. A designated caregiver can keep an eye on the children, allowing parents to relax and enjoy the ceremony.

4. Have a Kid-Friendly Snack Station

Hungry kids can quickly become cranky. A small snack station with easy-to-eat options like crackers, fruit, and juice boxes will help keep little ones happy and occupied throughout the ceremony.

5. Time Your Ceremony Wisely

If you have your own small children and you’d like to minimise the issues with their sleep times, or unsettled times, try to schedule your ceremony at a time when the children are least likely to be tired or hungry. Mid-morning or early afternoon ceremonies work well to avoid naptime meltdowns.

6. Offer a Quiet Space

Some children may need a break from the excitement. Providing a quiet space where parents can take their kids if they need to calm down will be appreciated by guests and help minimize disruptions.

7. Give Kids a Role in the Ceremony

Keeping children involved can make them feel special and engaged. Assign them roles such as flower girl, ring bearer, or even “mini wedding attendants” to hand out programs or welcome guests. If they are your children, there are lots of ways to include your children in your ceremony, so check out our post on this for some great ideas.

8. Prepare for the Unexpected

Kids will be kids, and some noise or minor disruptions are inevitable. Have a relaxed attitude and embrace the charm they bring. Inform your officiant/celebrant and wedding planner about your kid-friendly approach so they can adapt accordingly and just go with the flow.

9. Communicate with Parents

Encourage parents to bring essentials like favorite toys, extra diapers, and comfort items. Let them know if there's a designated space for kids so they can plan ahead.

10. Consider a Kid-Free Reception

If you love the idea of having children at the ceremony but want a more formal reception, consider offering a kid-free reception. Parents can make childcare arrangements in advance while still including their little ones in the important part of the day.

Final Thoughts Having children at your wedding can add a layer of fun and warmth, but it requires some thoughtful planning, and depends on you as a couple and how you see your big day.

By setting expectations, providing entertainment, and preparing for their needs, you can create a kid-friendly wedding experience that keeps both parents and little guests happy. With a bit of preparation, your wedding day will be a beautiful celebration for guests of all ages!