As a wedding planner, I have been repeatedly asked this question, Do I have to invite children to my wedding? The answer is no, if you are not comfortable with having children at your wedding it is perfectly fine not to include them. Many of my brides become very stressed when having to tell their family and friends that their children can not attend their wedding. In order to avoid misunderstandings, the manner in which you address the invitations is important. If you have decided that you do not want to include children do not address the envelopes to "The Smith Family" make sure you address it to Mr. and Mrs. John Smith. You are still going to have guest that are going to assume that their children are invited this is where you need to have a close family member such as your mother, sisters or your maid/matron of honor spread the word. If the point has not been delivered, there have been many times that I the wedding planner will handle it, with a simple phone call.
If you want to include children at your wedding, make sure you include them during the planning. It is simple to have children attend but have you thought of entertainment for the little ones? Children become bored easily and get destructive very quickly.
When deciding whether or not to invite children. My brides all have the same concerns, they do not want the children to take over the event. I hear so many stories of past wedding they have attended where children had been invited. Children running around the first dance, little girls lined up to catch the bouquet and children by the chocolate fountain that would not move. If these are your same concerns you are not alone and they do not have to impede you from inviting your little loved ones. I have planned many weddings that children are invited and they have been a success. The same way you think about the adults at your wedding, by searching for the perfect DJ or band, attending food tasting to select your menu you have to do the same for the little ones.
I am always available to answer questions. Please feel free to contact me at ana@annrobertsnyc.com
