Can we bring our children to your wedding? Depending on your answer to this question, you could quickly offend a whole chunk of your guest list. So in that spirit I’m going to confess something…
A year ago I wasn’t all that keen on kids. Then our first child was born… And a year later I’m still not all that keen on kids. Don’t get me wrong, I love her to bits. Like most parents I think my little one is the best – she is super advanced for her age and just the cutest thing in the world. But, other people’s kids – yuk! I think at least part of the problem is that not enough of my friends are parents yet. So I’m constantly reminded how much easier life before children was – although maybe a touch less meaningful.
However, when it comes to a wedding… Kids are amazing, even other people’s kids! Embrace their never-ending energy.
The ‘kids at weddings’ issue seems to only be an issue if you’ve decided you might like a child free wedding. I’ve never heard of a couple falling out with a guest because they want to leave their little one with a baby sitter.
Personally, I like the idea of a child curfew. Invite children to the day, but come 7pm it’s time for them to go home and let the grown-ups party! This way the parents who love their little monsters so much, they can’t bear to be without them for a day (or can’t get an all day baby sitter) can come to your wedding. And the grown-ups who want their night to be little bundle of joy free, can still have their fun.
I think the trick is, if you’re going to have children at your wedding then you need to think like a child. All they want to do is have fun. All the time! So, why not plan in some lawn games, or give them a little party bag. I’ve heard of couples actually hiring a children’s entertainer for a couple of hours!
Of course this is all just my personal opinion. As a documentary wedding photographer I go with the flow. I don’t tell anyone what to do, where to stand and especially not who they can or can’t invite to their wedding!
But if you’re worried about children ruining your day, my advice to you would be… Don’t be. Moments like these don’t spoil anyone’s day.
