The decision to invite children or not to invite children to a wedding is a hotly debated topic with no right or wrong answer. Ultimately it is a personal choice made by the bride and groom.
My advice: Do what works for you!
Photo Credits: Daniel Kim Photography
If you choose to have children attend your wedding, I recommend to keep them busy! You will be happy you did and their parents will thank you.
- kids meals – chicken fingers, pizza, and suits their fancy! Kid’s meals could be less expensive, but they also are fast, fun, will keep them entertained and they will actually eat!
- kids activities – Choose to have a kids table (this will depend on their ages) or have them sit with their parents, and give them something to do! A goodie bag of coloring books, toy cars, stickers, and maybe a little candy will keep them busy while you get through dinner and speeches. Kids love to make cards and present the bride and groom so let them craft it up.
I created a board on my Pinterest account with interesting entertaining, clothing, photographs, and ideas. Click here.
If you prefer an adult-only affair, here are some general rules and cute ways to wording to help you in a nice way:
- invitation: address the invites to the adult names only.
- rsvp: indicate the names or that you have reserved X number of seats for the guests replying
- wording: for those that need something a little less subtle I give you some help below.
[click_to_tweet tweet=”How can we spell out in the invitation ‘No Kids at Wedding'” quote=”How can we spell out in the invitation ‘No Kids at Wedding'”]
No matter what anyone tells you. Having an adults-only wedding is a decision you will make based on what’s best for you, your spouse, and your wedding.
When you want to keep it short and sweet
“With respect, we would like our special day to be an adult-only occasion.”
“Although we adore your children, this is an adults-only kind of day.”
“We have reserved ___ seats in your honor.”
“Please join us for an adult reception honoring the new Mr and Mrs”
“Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate all of our guests’ children at the reception. Please contact Jessica at ______ if you need assistance finding childcare.”
“Adults only reception to follow.”
“We respectfully request no children under 9 at the reception.”
“Please join us for an adult reception at six o’clock.”
“Please note this will be an adults-only celebration.”
“Adult (18 and older) reception to follow.”
“Although we love your little ones, this is an adult-only affair.”
“The bride and groom request that this is an adults-only reception.”
“Please celebrate with us at an adults-only reception immediately following the ceremony.”
“Unfortunately we cannot accommodate children – thank you for your understanding.”
When budget or space is limited
“[X] seats have been reserved in your honor. Please let us know if you will be joining us!”
“Due to limited venue space, adults only please.”
“Due to budget/space limitations, we are unable to extend the invitation to children.”
“Although we love your children, we regretfully cannot accommodate them at the venue due to restricted numbers.”
“Although we adore your children, due to budget/space constraints we ask that only adults attend.”
“Regrettably our chosen venue is unable to accommodate children. Professional babysitting will be provided at the hotel.”
“We’d love to have “name of kid” and “name of kid” there but unfortunately we’re limited by budget/space constraints. We hope you can still make it.”
When you want to kick curfews to the curb
“To allow all wedding guests, including parents, a night of relaxation and uninhibited revelry, we respectfully ask that no children attend the reception.”
“We love your kids but thought you might like a night off. Adults only please!”
“To give all our guests the opportunity to celebrate without having to worry about little eyes and ears, we politely request no children.”
“We hope you will understand our decision to make the wedding children-free, and take the opportunity to let your hair down and celebrate in style!”
“To allow all guests to relax and enjoy themselves, we have chosen to make our special day adults only. We thank you for your understanding.”
Keep the tips safe and save to your Pinterest account.
Happy Planning!
