Of course I love your little Robert, Sarah, Abbey, Firefly and Angus, but...

Image from : creativecateringcompany.co.uk

It’s a topic that has long stressed brides. Yes the dress, seating arrangements and shoes tip you over the edge, but the tiny guests make for not so tiny decision for some brides and it generally is one that needs to be made right at the beginning. These days weddings are a production of sorts and it's becoming extremely common for couples to have an adult only wedding (no, not that kind...).  By the same token many couples opt for a small family affair, so for those who are sitting on fence of indecisiveness here are some little tips for planning your big day!

BE STRONG
Don’t let irritated guests (or family) change your mind. This can happen; children or no children? Its YOUR day, YOUR choices!

ALL OR NONE
Don’t pick your favorites, they aren’t candy and plus you’ll end up in hot water! (clearly your own children don’t count in this instance).

AGES
Really try and avoid seating the ‘older’ teenage kids with little ones; they don’t consider themselves free babysitters and they certainly won’t enjoy it, but mostly you will pay for it later! So try and spread the ages around, make the tweens feel old and the more mature feel young again!

BE CLEAR
Clarity can start from the save the dates, letting people know immediately that it’s no kids or better yet send out mini invitations addressed to the kids, this can let the parents get them excited about being such a grown up. Simple and clear ideas will allow guests to make prior arrangements or be organized and child ready.

KISS - Keep It Secret Stupid
N.O. Spells NO. You've made the decision, no little ones at the wedding, well done, so what next… how do you break the news to everyone? KISS- Keep It Secret Stupid, don’t go telling everyone you want to let loose and have a massive night, or the budget won’t allow  and definitely don’t share the secret about being a closet child hater! (I jest!) Parents will not take any reason well, so be simple and kind about it - "we as couple want to have an adult only evening , enjoy a few drinks to celebrate where everyone (parents included) can relax."

TIPS TO KEEP THE KIDS BUSY
If you decide you want kids there and your budget won’t allow for a nanny service, try setting up a space that is just for them: toys, movies, pillows etc (you might find yourself joining the party). Between family members, you could design a rotation to watch over them. Remember if you’re the bride people cannot say no! There are always fun ideas like setting up a cupcake station for the little guys to have some sugary fun!

Now at the risk of being quite a fence sitter on this topic I’ll be honest, as an unmarried mother I cannot question my daughter’s attendance if I were to marry, so I can disregard all advice I’ve just mentioned. But, as an event manager I’m quite relieved by clients who choose the no kids options, it’s a money, time and tears saver. So whatever decision you make, I’m sure it is the right one for you and your partners big day! Now you can move on to the FUN side of planning your day. 

Until next time.... 

Helena xxx