This may sound a bit harsh to some of your guests, but when it comes down to it a wedding is an ‘adult event,’ aside from the flower girl and the ring bearer (if you choose to have them). So, if you’re looking to keep your kid count to a minimum or none at all, we’ve got the steps you can take to ease your guests into your decision. Ultimately, it’s your big day and your call!
Before we go into the ‘how-to’ section, lets discuss WHY one would want a ‘No Kid’ wedding. We did already mention a wedding is for adults, there’s typically excess drinking, fine dinning and dancing – you wouldn’t take your child out with you and your friends for a night on the town would you? It’s not mean, that’s the facts!
Your guest will probably be thanking you when all is said and done; after all they got to enjoy themselves without the worry. ALSO – you’ll keep your guest list down, and wont have to be concerned with a crying baby during your ceremony, or running toddlers knocking into your cake table!
So, if you’re sure you’d like to keep your wedding to ‘adults only’ lets discuss how to go about enforcing that with your guests.
We suggest calling your friends and family that have children and let them know you’ve decided to go ‘kid-free’, before you send the invitations out.
This way they will know how to respond to the invite, as well as give them ample time to line up a babysitter.
You could also use your invitations as an indicator by stating:
-‘This is an adult reception’
-‘We have reserved 2 seats for you and a guest…’
-Only put adult names on the invite envelope, not ‘…& Family’
-These simple things can let your guests know that this is a final decision, and may help you avoid awkward phone calls with certain people who may give you a hard time.
-Be sure to stand your ground on the matter, avoid being bullied into it by someone. If you do get bullied into letting someone bring their children you could risk other people becoming upset with you for not allowing them to bring theirs. It has to stay consistent, and fair.
-You also have to consider that some people may not be able to leave their children, like a nursing mother with an infant, etc. there are always exceptions to every rule, and you can decide how to handle those situations. Those who really cannot be without their children for one reason or another may not be able to attend your big day. So, be prepared for that, and be understanding.
Don’t forget this is YOUR day, you call the shots and those in attendance will respect and honor that. The main goal is to ensure that as many loved ones are there celebrating with you as possible, and keeping the hurt feelings to a minimum! This is completely doable – just remember to be understanding and communicate – as long as you do that your guests will feel heard and give you and yours a beautiful day, complete with an amazing gift!