I had the pleasure of being a guest at a friends wedding on the weekend. It was such a relaxing and joyful day and for once I simply sat back and enjoyed the occasion as it unfolded! There were two gorgeous little children in the wedding party as well as some among the guests. Even though the day was lovely there were a few things that were decidedly not child friendly and didn’t the kids let us know it! There’s always a risk that children will make noise during the ceremony, fall asleep under the tables or refuse to eat the fancy food because all they really want is chips. If you decide you would like to have children at your wedding, and do think about it because the innocence and wonder they bring really does add to the magic of the day, there are a few things you can do to avoid disaster.
Keep a sense of humour.
Children are very unpredictable. If you’ve chosen to have a flower girl or page boy expect the unexpected. By doing so you’ll not only feel as though a weight has been lifted but ultimately you open the door for some great moments and these unique memories are the ones that will have you smiling for years to come.
Keep them entertained.
If you ever went to a wedding as a child you should know how boring and tedious they can be for someone who really doesn’t fully understand their significance. Have a table for kids at the reception to keep them occupied and busy filled with fun things like crayons and paper, books and games.
Feed them first.
A hungry child is a grumpy child. Serve the children their meals at the one table if possible whilst the adults are enjoying pre-dinner drinks. Ask your caterer or venue if they will do a deal for kid’s meals. Most will be happy to even if it’s not something they offer as a standard.
Employ a child minder.
If you can afford it this is a great idea. The children can be watched during the ceremony somewhere near by. During the reception the children can be minded whilst still allowing them to enjoy the party in their own special way. There’s nothing cuter than watching toddlers on the dance floor! If you can’t afford it then assign members of the wedding party to do the job. A well respected adult can help some parents with squealing babies and children at the ceremony, escorting them to a spot where they can be settled down. A responsible teenager who loves kids and isn’t old enough to partake in the adult celebrations will feel useful if asked to read stories and mind the little ones.
Keep a sense of humour.
Children are very unpredictable. If you’ve chosen to have a flower girl or page boy expect the unexpected. By doing so you’ll not only feel as though a weight has been lifted but ultimately you open the door for some great moments and these unique memories are the ones that will have you smiling for years to come.
Keep them entertained.
If you ever went to a wedding as a child you should know how boring and tedious they can be for someone who really doesn’t fully understand their significance. Have a table for kids at the reception to keep them occupied and busy filled with fun things like crayons and paper, books and games.
Feed them first.
A hungry child is a grumpy child. Serve the children their meals at the one table if possible whilst the adults are enjoying pre-dinner drinks. Ask your caterer or venue if they will do a deal for kid’s meals. Most will be happy to even if it’s not something they offer as a standard.
Employ a child minder.
If you can afford it this is a great idea. The children can be watched during the ceremony somewhere near by. During the reception the children can be minded whilst still allowing them to enjoy the party in their own special way. There’s nothing cuter than watching toddlers on the dance floor! If you can’t afford it then assign members of the wedding party to do the job. A well respected adult can help some parents with squealing babies and children at the ceremony, escorting them to a spot where they can be settled down. A responsible teenager who loves kids and isn’t old enough to partake in the adult celebrations will feel useful if asked to read stories and mind the little ones.
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