There’s the age old dilemma when planning your wedding guest list: Do we invite kids or not? If you have a lot of young family members or friends with children, then inviting them may seem like a no-brainer, but for some, kids are strictly banned. Many of us grown-ups get bored in long wedding services, so it’s understandable that children may get a little fidgety. A wedding reception may seem like an age, when you’re small. So, to keep the little ones interested (and well-behaved) at your wedding, try a few of these top tips:
Give Them a Job to do
Children will get restless when they are bored, so give them a job to do. Whether this is to be a flower girl, ring bearer or even just to hand out wedding programs. Make them feel involved by giving them something to do and they are more likely to behave.
Time it Well
Another important factor to consider if you are inviting a number of children is the time of day and the length of the ceremony. Try to avoid nap times and keep the service short. Children may get crotchety if they are tired, so bear this in mind.
Colour Your Own Placemat
What child doesn’t love colouring in? Whether a boy or girl, 3 or 8 years old, colouring in can be enjoyed by all, and a paper colouring mat is a novel way of introducing it to your wedding tables without cluttering. You could even give the children their very own favours of crayons or colouring pencils that they can take home with them. If you’re feeling particularly crafty then you could even print out your very own colouring book, fit with a wedding cake outline and caricature of you, the happy couple.
Lawn Games
Once you’ve exchanged platinum wedding rings will you be hosting a reception in the countryside? With country manor home, farm or outdoor weddings there comes a lot of outside space. If the weather is fine, make the most of this space by hiring some lawn games. Giant Jenga, chess or connect 4, are fun and interactive games for all ages, or for something a little more civilised try crochet or miniature golf.
Sweet Trolley
A recent trend for vintage sweet trolleys has taken the UK by storm. Jars filled with sweets and little paper bags, allow guests to help themselves to a sweet treat; that is if the kids haven’t got to the trolley first! This is a relatively inexpensive addition to your wedding reception, which is a real people pleaser for all ages as it creates a nostalgic feel.
Hire a Professional
Are you too rushed off your feet with wedding prep to sort out entertainment for children? Then hire a professional children’s entertainer! A children’s entertainer can keep the children occupied and you can rest assured that everything will be taken care of. So whether a clown, balloon artist or magician, get in touch with a local party planner for a recommendation.
Other Hints and Tips:
Make sure your caterer is aware there will be young guests, so they can create some child friendly meals. • Bubbles are a mess free and fun gift you can give your guests. • Give favours that young guests will appreciate and keep them occupied, such as small toys or activity packs. So do you think you will be adopting any of these methods for your wedding? Or if you have a better idea we’d love to hear it!