Although some people want their weddings to be kid-free, if you have a large family or have children in your life, it is likely that you will want them there to witness the special occasion.
In fact, weddings can be wonderful family-friendly days that kids will remember for the rest of their lives, and here are a few tips to help you to achieve this.
1. Give Them a Role
If you have a number of close children in your life, why not give them a part to play at your wedding? This will make them feel important and part of the ceremony, rather than relegated to the corner. What child doesn’t dream of being a bridesmaid, flower girl, or ring bearer?
This can give them a memory that they have always craved—and (hopefully) keep them quiet during the ceremony! It is also advisable to try not to leave too many children out of your wedding party if there are multiple close relatives who are under the age of 16 within your family.
2. Set Up Games
To keep the children entertained, you should consider setting up games for them to play with, as these can keep them occupied the whole night through. No matter what you want your evening entertainment to look like, by thinking of the children and having activities for them, you will be able to ensure that each and everyone of your guests loves your party and that they do not kick up a fuss halfway through. There are many other options besides games, though, including a disco and sports activities.
If this an option that you thinnk would work for you, be sure to look for wedding reception venues that will accommodate your chosen activities or set-up.
3. Think of the Menu
Kids usually enjoy much plainer food than adults and in smaller portions, and therefore they might struggle to find a meal that they are happy to eat on a normal wedding menu. This means that you should always try to provide an option for the kids and fussy eaters of the group who might otherwise be left hungry.
You do not want to deal with hungry children on the day of your wedding—or hungry adults, besides, and this is just one way that you can remain inclusive.
4. Get Them Involved
In all the commotion, it might be easy to ignore the kids in your guest list, resulting in them feeling left out and wanting to go home. However, a simple smile and a conversation-starter can bring them into the action and make them feel like the mini adults that they are desperate to be seen as.
Why not save a few dances for the kids in your family, or spread them around the guests rather than having a designated kids’ table? By doing this, you will not end up separating kids and adults and creating a divide between children, parents, and child-free folk.
Weddings do not have to be for adults only, and, in most cases, the children you invite will be excited and will not kick up as much of a fuss as you might expect of them. By including them and ensuring that their needs are met, you can set yourself and them up for a incredible evening.
