Tips and tricks to make sure kids don’t cause chaos at weddings
Personally, I love weddings where everybody gets involved - and yes that includes kids and even pets
As a wedding planner and mum, kids can be another level of stress when kids are involved. I have a son myself, so I know that kids can be unpredictable and cheeky, which can interfere with the ceremony, reception and any wedding festivities involved. It doesn’t help when weddings can take the whole day!
So here are my secrets of having family-friendly weddings (without you losing your mind over managing kids).
Providing kids entertainment, babysitter and/or a nanny
They have worked with kids so many times - it’s like they know what they are thinking, what they enjoy, and even what would be their next step! Kids entertainers, babysitters and nannies are able to keep kids under control, and maintain kids' engagement through games, age-appropriate activities. This can include face painting, board games, colouring books, activity packs, and a designated kids’ area for arts and crafts, or even movies. You can even have a separate photobooth (just for kids!) so that they are not fighting with adults!
I talk about this more in my blog “7 ways to entertain kids in weddings”. Click here to read more!
2. Communicate with parents beforehand
As a parent myself, I know that it is very important to communicate with the parents beforehand your expectations, so that there is no misunderstanding or confusion on the day. This includes letting parents know if children are allowed to run around, have their own family downtime (including to be fed) or take part in certain parts of the ceremony or reception. This can be done by providing parents a rundown of the day and pointing out when kids can have downtime, or to take their kids to designated kids areas or to leave the wedding altogether.
3. Provide kid-friendly food options and drinks
Kids can get restless and angry when they are hungry (or what I like to call - “hangry”). I like to have kid-friendly food options and drinks because it makes the kids feel included. This is commonly seen in receptions where venues and caterers provide separate “kids menu”. Kid-friendly meals (which are lifesavers) include finger foods, snacks, pasta, juice and other beverages that are easy for kids to hold and consume. Dessert finger options can also be candy, cupcakes, macarons and donuts, so that kids don’t feel left out.
Photo by Fu Zhichao
4. Assigning important roles for kids
It is very exciting when kids are part of the bridal party - and if they are, make sure kids are wearing age-appropriate and comfortable outfits. Otherwise, they will pick on their own outfits and get restless without enjoying the wedding. Also, when they feel included in the wedding, kids are more likely to feel excited. This includes being flower girl, page boy, handing out wedding programmes to guests when guests enter the ceremony and throwing flower petals or confetti before the bride walks down the aisle. However, if kids take part, I recommend attending a dress rehearsal (so they know what to expect) including walking down the aisle, pairing kids up (so that the older child can look after the younger child, like a sense of security) and for you to understand that kids may get very nervous on the day.
Photo by Studio Negarin
5. Have a separate ceremony or reception for adults only
Some brides and grooms just don’t want kids to be present, so having a separate ceremony or reception for adults only could be another consideration. It can feel more formal, and also so that the wedding runs smoothly without any interruptions or distractions (including kids screaming and talking during special moments!) However, it is very important to point this out in your wedding invitations if you decide to have an adults-only ceremony or reception.
It may feel like an added level of stress and worry to have kids in weddings, as managing kids at weddings can be challenging, but it isn’t possible. With careful planning and extra consideration beforehand, everyone will have a great time. As a mum, I understand and can relate that this can be handled well without kids causing a scene. And as a wedding planner, I know how to put all the pieces together so that your wedding will run smoothly.