While most people love having kids at weddings, sometimes knowing how to keep kids engaged and having fun at weddings can be a challenge. This is especially true when most of your guests are adults. Here are five things to keep in mind when having kids at weddings.
Keep the Kids Engaged
When you’re planning your wedding, consider ways to engage kids both around the ceremony and reception. For example, when you’re passing out programs, you could offer kids a quiet toy or book that will keep them occupied during the ceremony. During the cocktail hour, provide board games or other activities so the kids have something to do during that time. During dinner, consider offering a coloring book or wedding activity book at their place setting.
Photobooths are another great option for kids to express themselves and have fun at the same time.
Serve Kid Friendly Food and Drinks
Offer water, soda, and juice during the cocktail hour. If space permits, have a “kids only bar” which offers kid friendly cocktails. When it comes to the main meal, offer kids food they enjoy such as chicken nuggets, burgers, and sides such as French fries and mac and cheese. Kids might enjoy vegetables if they were breaded or made with butter. For dessert, consider a sundae bar, or a make your own cupcakes bar.
Work In Kids’ Routines
Kids need routine just as much as adults, and the wedding day is no different. When you’re making your timeline for the day, consider allowing time for naps if you have babies and toddlers. Also consider offering snacks or a lunch early as kids might not be able to wait until cocktail hour to eat something. Remind the parents of children to also bring snacks and drinks for the child as it will be a long day.
Keep Safety in Mind
As always with kids you need to keep safety in mind, and your wedding day is no different. The venue may have spaces that may present a danger to kids such as a pool, lake or other outdoor spaces. Also remind kids to stay away from any serving stations that may have fire or flames. Keep the music pleasant for both kids and adults and let your band or DJ know what songs are on your do not play list, particularly those with objectionable lyrics. Also, for younger children, consider ear protection for loud dance floor music.
Have A Loved One or Professional Babysit the Kids
As much as we want the kids to enjoy the wedding as well, we should also consider that adults may want a break. Offer spaces for naps, feedings, places to walk around with a stroller, and a place for children to safely run around. Providing a babysitter allows parents to mingle and relax during the wedding.
Consider these tips as you’re making the decision on including kids at your wedding. Check out our bridal collection if you’re in the market for a wedding dress.