WORDS by Bec McLean


This is a very common question that I get asked by my brides and grooms! It can be a tricky one to decide on as everyone has an opinion and some people can get offended if their little darlings are left off the invite list.

For some couples it is a no-brainer and they quite happily have all of the littlies at their ceremony and reception, supplying children’s meals, children’s tables with all the fun extras of colouring in, games and special treats.

Other’s may prefer to keep it an adults-only affair (or maybe children at ceremony but not at the reception). This could be a requirement of the venue as they may not allow Under-18s on premise which makes it easier to explain to the cousin who is very upset that her children are not invited to your special day. Or you could just be adamant that you want no kids tearing around on the night and also to let your guests have a night off and let their hair down with no children to look after!

I do recommend being very specific on your invite as to whether children are invited or not, to save problems on the day – seating, catering, tears.  Remember you may need to make allowances for small babies.

Should you decide to invite little guests to your wedding you can look into hiring a babysitter for the evening or perhaps a children’s entertainer (I highly recommend www.kelswackywonders.com.au) who will entertain the kids and keep them happy and occupied particularly during the dinner and speeches.

Talk to your planner or venue about having a separate area for the children that is still close by for parents to check in as required. Request parents bring their IPAD/DVD and special blankey/pillow for the kids to snuggle down with late into the evening if they are planning on sticking out the entire reception. Also remember majority of kids absolutely LOVE getting up on the dancefloor once the formalities are out of the way and they will enjoy expending any left over energy they may have.

As I always say, remember it is your wedding – so your choice!