Let’s discuss the cutest wedding guests of all time, kids! Bringing children to a wedding may increase the fun and excitement. However, it also means the parents and the engaged couple shoulder more responsibility. Going to a wedding with your children can feel like a juggling act, from planning entertainment to preventing behavior outbursts, but don’t fret. Here are some tips to make the most of your day and keep the kids happy.
1. Make Sure That Your Kids Are Invited
It can be hard to think that our children aren’t at the top of our friends’ guest lists, but it does happen. Before making plans, confirm that your children have an invitation to the wedding. Imagine going to a wedding with little ones and discovering you need to add them to the guest list – it might even be too late. In some weddings, the happy couple may prefer adults alone and may not anticipate having children in attendance.
2. Keep Your Child Informed
Adults know what it’s like to be in the dark, but we can only imagine how a youngster feels when they have no idea what’s going on or how long the ceremony will take. Make children aware of the nature of wedding activities and what you expect of them. For instance, while joining in a dance is okay, you don’t want them scrambling for the wedding cake. This strategy helps craft viable solutions in advance for potential problems.
3. Mind Your Kids Triggers
Some events use too bright or flashy lights and loud music, which could overwhelm young kids. Also, certain lighting effects can trigger seizures in children with photosensitive epilepsy. So, if you bring kids, find out from the planners whether the party setup is better for kids. 87% of wedding DJs offer lighting services in addition to music. You will find useful information about music and lighting from the DJ, who will be able to inform you of any extreme noise or flashes that may occur.
4. Keep Little Ones Entertained With Exciting Tasks
Children can’t sit through the long ceremonies with boring reading without complaining. Luckily, there are numerous ways to engage children in the wedding, even if they are not a part of the bridal party. While the focus is on the bridal party, the celebration and fun are for everyone! Kids adore, are thrilled to participate in ceremonies, and are happy to undertake some activities. Some interesting tasks include bringing gifts to the altar, reading, or handing out confetti.
5. Have Alternatives
Although weddings are joyful celebrations, they can also be exhausting and overwhelming for small children. Plan for a babysitter or a childcare provider to watch over your kids if you bring them to the wedding. An American family with two incomes spends over 10% of its income on childcare, on average. Consider other cost-saving options, such as requesting a dependable relative or friend to watch your kids. For instance, arrange snacks for kids while you enjoy a glass of champagne or have an aunt take them to the playground while adults go to the art gallery.
6. Be Sensitive About Etiquette and Gift Giving
Weddings are not complete with gifts – but what do you offer the newlyweds? Some great gift ideas include ornaments, glasses, and custom prints. Offer flowers, especially if they have just suffered a loss or emotional distress. 84% of consumers send sympathy flowers at some point. Consider local customs and etiquette around gift-giving.
Inviting children to a wedding is gratifying but necessitates considerable planning and thought. Discuss expectations with your kids, respect the couple’s preferences, and maintain the event’s informal environment. Contribute to the happiness and celebration of the wedding day by giving your family an experience they will remember and cherish.