If you’ve decided to invite children to your wedding, it’s time to start preparing. While kids bring plenty of entertainment to weddings, they need to be entertained themselves. Having fun wedding reception activities, choosing kid-friendly meals, and supervision are things you must consider before the big day. It’s necessary wedding etiquette to make sure your youngest guests are as happy as the adults. Don’t stress or take back those invites! I have a few easy tips to make sure your wedding day is kid-friendly and fun.

Photo courtesy of Jordan Obinger Photography

Plan wedding reception activities little ones will love.

Keep kids entertained at your wedding by having wedding reception activities planned ahead of time. I recommend having a kids’ table for anyone 7-12 years old, and keeping the younger ones with their parents. Also, try to seat guests with children together. Your single guests will appreciate it. One idea is to cover the kids’ table with white paper and let them decorate it with markers or crayons! You could have a kids-only dance and snap some great photos. You could also give each child a goodie bag to keep them busy. My goodie bag ideas include small toys, coloring books, and puzzles. Make sure that the art supplies won’t stain and the toys aren’t noisy. DIY activity books are also a great addition to any goodie bag. Lovely Indeed has a free printout you can use! One of my favorite goodie bag ideas is to include a disposable camera. You’ll enjoy the unique point of view when a child is in charge of capturing the memories.

Photo courtesy of Jeff Loves Jessica Photography

Prevent picky eaters with kid-friendly meals.

I think we can all agree that most wedding food will be less than appetizing for younger children. Kid-friendly meals are essential to have if you choose to invite children to your wedding. Consider chicken fingers, spaghetti, or something else healthy and familiar for your youngest guests. Not only will their parents be grateful for the prevented tantrums, but these meals are much less expensive for you! It’s also thoughtful wedding etiquette to have snacks for the little ones between the ceremony and dinner, depending on your wedding’s schedule.

Is it proper wedding etiquette to hire a babysitter for your big day?

If you have room in your budget, consider hiring someone to supervise children during the wedding. It’s not essential, but your wedding reception activities may work better with a little supervision. Ask your venue if there is a separate room near the reception hall to let the kids play in. You could set up a DVD player, games, and even a place to rest in case they’re worn out after dinner. The separate room and adult supervision will help the parents get a slow dance in before bedtime!

Photo courtesy of LC Photography

Cherish the memories children bring to weddings.

My number one recommendation for those inviting children to their wedding is to make sure the photographer is ready! It’s considerate to give them a heads-up since children create a completely different photo opportunities. Your wedding album will be even more entertaining with little ones in the photos.

Did you invite children to your wedding? What advice do you have for couples considering younger guests?