One of the hardest decisions for some people to make when it comes to wedding planning isn’t about what to have everyone wear or what have on the menu but what to do with the kids.
Some people want an adult only reception, we have entertained at some where the only kids are the ones in the wedding party and then there are some that are full out kid fests. Each one brings it own unqiue characteristics:
Adult Reception: Parents, friends and family can cut loose and have fun but often leads to parents wondering if their child is ok, safe, having fun, with the babysitter.
Kids In Wedding: most weddings we have played at the kids get introduced, get dinner, some pictures and then sent off with other relatives leaving early.
Kids Fest: I label this “kids fest” as most weddings we do with a lot of children, the kids are everywhere. Parents tend to let their children have fun by letting then run all over the banquet hall or on the dance floor when other adults are dancing. At first this appears to be fun and acceptable until a child is heard crying or screaming because they get bumped by the knee or leg of an adult who is having fun. Often dance floors will clear because nobody wants to be the next person to accidently run into a child who is out of control. (Editors Note: many parents are seen by enjoying a beverage, trying to ignore the fact their kids are on the floor causing trouble. Would you rather have to watch the kids or try to have some fun?)
An alternative: See if your reception hall or venue provides child services or has a room where the kids can play and a babysitter can entertain the children. Better yet, see if you can get a daycare provider to open their doors after hours or furinsh a ”play room” for a nominal fee. This way the kids are all together with a professional who has many activities to keep them entertained.
