Should I Invite Kids To My Wedding?

May 26, 2023

I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve heard people ask this question.

People I’ve talked to often fear the unpredictability that children bring or prefer an adult atmosphere to party hard. To be honest, I couldn’t imagine a wedding day without them. After attending dozens of weddings in my career, weddings with children have been the most fun, magical, and unpredictable.

While it is your personal preference, in my opinion, there is only one answer to this question:

Absolutely.

Weddings are a one-of-a-kind day. A day to celebrate love, commitment, and family. And what better way to celebrate love and family than to include the children that make your family whole? Although one may describe a wedding full of children to be absolute chaos, I encourage you to shift your perspective. This chaos can be quite beautiful.

Having kids at your wedding can create a unique and innocent energy that can make your day even more special.

Think of your own childhood memories of your family gatherings. Maybe a Fourth of July party, a Christmas when the whole family is in town, or a cousin getting married. Memories of comradery; running around, dancing, socializing, and being silly with all the people you love the most. Why not help curate those memories for the little minds that you love dearly? Not only will it bring them joy, but you and your family joy too.

There is something magical about the presence of children. They have a wide-eyed wonder and excitement that can bring a youthfulness to even the most formal of affairs. The way they marvel at the decorations, giggle at the speeches and dance without inhibition. These are just a few (of many) moments you can look forward to.

Their sense of wonder reminds us to stop and live in the moment.

Take it all in. Appreciate the small details. You are all together for this special day. Enjoying the present.   

Of course, children can also be unpredictable. They might cry during the ceremony or refuse to sit still during dinner. But while some might see this as a potential downside, I encourage you to remember that there is no such thing as a perfect wedding day.  In the presence of these imperfect moments, we can still look around and realize we are surrounded by the ones we love. Weddings can be so structured and planned out, but the presence of kids can add an element of spontaneity and playfulness that can make the day even more memorable, all the laughs and tears included.

One of my favorite things about having kids at weddings is seeing them interact with the adults. Watching them twirl around the dance floor with their parents or chase after their cousins. Bringing you right back to a memory that you may have experienced at your own big family gathering. A memory of warmth. A core memory.

Let’s not forget about the adorable moments that can happen when they’re part of the ceremony too. Whether it’s a flower girl throwing petals with abandon or a ring bearer sneaking a peek at the bride and groom. No matter the age, their involvement in the wedding itself is a huge deal. For them and for you.

But beyond the fun and cuteness, having kids at weddings can be a way to show them the importance of family and commitment. Seeing the love and dedication between the bride and groom can be a powerful lesson for children and including them in the celebration can make them feel like an important part of the family.

As they grow older, they’ll look back on those memories with fondness and appreciation for being included in such an important day.

Of course, it’s important to remember that not all kids are the same, and some might not be comfortable or excited about attending a wedding. It’s important to respect their feelings and make accommodations if necessary.

But for those kids who are eager to be part of the celebration, their innocent energy and unique perspective can make for an even more special day.

Yes, having little ones at the wedding might add some unpredictability and chaos to the day, but that can also make the day more fun for everyone.

And beyond the cuteness and entertainment value, their presence can add a sense of innocence and lightheartedness that is crucial for a potentially stressful day.  

So if you’re planning a wedding, consider including the little ones in your celebration – it just might make the day even more valuable.

Photos by Madi Taylor

Blog post written by Hannah Marine

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