At some point or another, the question comes up on whether or not to invite children. This decision should be mutual with your fiance (well, obviously). The old advice stands to “list the pros and cons”. Perhaps making separate lists then discussing may change each other’s perspective. I think it helps to get these thoughts out and on “paper”. This will make it easier to discuss and come to a decision, knowing all aspects were considered.
My ultimate advice is to invite the ones you absolutely want to be a part of your special day – those you cannot imagine not being there. If there are little ones you feel obligated to invite in order to not hurt anyone’s feelings, have a heart to heart talk with the Mom (or Dad). Depending on the age, you could also talk with the child. If explained there will not be any or only few kids attending, he or she may rather not go anyway. Problem solved. I think having this talk may be all that is needed. If I were the parent, I would feel incredibly grateful that I was talked to personally about my feelings on the issue. Although I may not agree with the couples decision, it would comfort me knowing my feelings were considered.
photo credit: Pixabay
Here are some other options outside the box to ponder:
KIDS TABLE – This is nothing new, but how it is setup can make the difference for younger guests. No need to spend a boat load on stuff for the table, just things to entertain them – dollar store finds like stickers, coloring books, crafts, etc. For the slightly older ones, there can be a big basket filled with old hand-held Game-boys, Leap Frogs, iPod Touches, etc. – all purchased at yard sales or secondhand somewhere (best centerpiece ever for kids).
For those of you with a teenager, you know these “ancient” devices are so much more entertaining than whatever the newest Samsung or iPhone can offer. Another option – have a “kid corner”. The same idea applies: fill up a few shelves with age-appropriate toys from Good Will and Salvation Army. Toys from these secondhand places are usually dirt cheap and outdated (smart to go crazy with Clorox beforehand). Kids don’t play with their own toys, but boy if you take them somewhere with all different toys, it doesn’t matter if they’re brand new or 2 for a dollar used. After all, the ultimate goal is for them to be entertained.
Photo by S O C I A L . C U T on Unsplash
LEAVE AFTER DINNER – Request that the kids only stay through dinner. I realize this won’t have any factor in cutting your costs, but perhaps there is another concern. Maybe you feel that you can’t let your hair down with your seven year old niece watching.
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KID PARTY (OFF-SITE) – Send them to an “after party”. Ask a friend or relative to allow the kids to all hang out at their place after the ceremony and have one of the older ones in charge (maybe a hired babysitter would be best). Provide them with awesome snacks (fun dip, rice crispy squares, whoopie pies, etc.) and pizza delivery. Parents can pick them up on the way home. I bet the kids would way rather do this than sit at a reception with adults.
Photo by KIDS PARTY (ON-SITE) – Ask the venue (if indoor) if they have another function room that is not booked that you can do this same idea (negotiate!). Have a mini party for them in a different room. Hire a friend’s teenager to be in charge, have some music from an iPhone, and offer boxes of all the sugar cereal they normally can’t have. Show a movie or have a dance party. Parents pick up after the reception.
What is great about this option is parents can check-in on them. Also, the kids could all go into the reception room for a dance maybe just with the bride and groom or themselves or with everyone. Have a vote for them. Geesh, I want to be in that kid room. Um, no…maybe for five minutes.
Photo by Gades Photography on Unsplash
