Making the decision to allow children to attend your wedding reception is a very personal one and varies tremendously by couple. Some couples can’t imagine celebrating their special day without their nieces, nephews, or godchildren. Others feel very strongly about the tone they want to set by focusing on the parents instead. Both sides have equally legitimate reasons for their decisions. However, if you are planning to have children attend your wedding reception, the key is to keep them entertained at all times.
A kid-friendly table doesn’t mean that children that sit together will mingle and have fun amongst each other. We know children get bored very easily and will most likely end up bickering with each other if you don’t make it fun. Take the time to actually make it “kid-friendly”. Incorporate coloring books, placemats, crayons, paper, pencils, and menus specifically designed for them. Make them feel special too!
A few fun suggestions:
If the space permits, hire a professional entertainer in a room adjacent or near the reception. Caricature artists, face painters, magicians, and comedians, are among the many possibilities.
Bouncy houses, ping-pong tables, air hockey, and other outdoor games are always a hit, especially in the summer. If your space does not allow that, then be sure to have fun board games like Connect Four, Jenga, Shoots and Ladders, etc. Remember to consider their ages when when making the selections.
Personally, I think event sitters are the way to go, especially if you have an assigned room where the can enjoy planned activities. Any of these ideas are brilliant! You will forever be the cool couple in the kids eyes and even cooler in the eyes of their parents!
What are your thoughts about children attending weddings? What are your favorite ways to accommodate younger guests?
With a Happy Heart,
Kathy
Kathy Romero is the Director of Event Planning for Preston Bailey Designs. She shares her thoughts and advice on Preston’s Blog every Thursday.
(Photo Courtesy of Emily Gilbert)
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