KIDS AT WEDDINGS - WHAT TO CONSIDER FOR A STRESS FREE DAY
When it comes to inviting kids to your wedding, there’s often a few extra things to consider in the planning process. From the possible (but adorable) interruptions, needing to keep the vibe more family-friendly or the deliberations over whether to increase guest numbers, it’s easy to see why some couples opt for an adult-only experience and request a kid-free event.
However, if you’re like me and adore the joy and heartwarming moments that little ones can bring to your big day, I’ve got you covered with some key things to keep in mind and make your day super special for everyone there!
MAKE SURE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER IS EXPERIENCED AT WORKING WITH KIDS
It sounds simple enough, but don’t underestimate the rapport your photographer will need to develop (quickly) to get the kids feeling comfortable. Whether it’s to capture their candid and expressive nature or keep them engaged during family photos, how relaxed the kids feel around your vendors will always show through your photos. Bonus points if your photographer is a parent like me (who’s even photographed kindergartens before) - I’ve got all the dad jokes covered and funny stories ready to go!
2. KEEP PARENTS IN THE LOOP
While some parents would prefer to leave kids at home and enjoy a kid-free night, some guests might not be able to make it if they can’t bring the kids (especially for those with younger children). In this case, communicate your plans ahead of time so that they can prepare on their end and set the kids up for a successful day. Inform them of things like:
Is the venue kid-friendly? Will there be somewhere for kids to roam and play, or even specific kids seating like high chairs or kid’s tables/menus?
What’s the rough timing of the day? This can help parents plan around nap times if needed.
Is the reception indoors or outdoors? Will there be a quiet place for kids to get away from the loud music if needed? If not, parents might like to bring headphones for noise-sensitive kids and babies.
Will there be a kids zone or any onsite baby-sitters to give the parents a breather through the night? Whilst it’s not always possible, this can sometimes be a great thing to add, especially if you have a large group of kids that need extra entertainment.
What are the ages of the kids attending? A 9 month old is going to need something different to a 4 year old, so knowing the ages of kids coming to your wedding is going to help everyone plan ahead for the smoothest evening.
3. GET THE KIDS INVOLVED
There’s nothing more adorable than a flower girl or ring bearer standing beside the newlyweds and bringing home that importance of family. Whilst it can add some extra planning having little ones in the bridal party, you’d be surprised at how much they love having their own little part to play and feeling involved in the celebrations.
4. BE FLEXIBLE AND ALLOW FOR EXTRA TIME
As every parent will tell you, kids can be spontaneous and unpredictable. So be sure to leave extra time for any family photos that might mean wrangling extra kids from games and running around, and allow for some extra patience. Again, if your photographer has experience with kids, this will be a smooth process as they know exactly what to expect, but it can’t hurt to keep in mind your own personal reasons for having kids at your wedding should things become a little chaotic. In the end, remember that you’ll have treasured memories of the most important day of your life, with ALL of your cherished family and friends in the photos - and what’s not to love about that.
Still searching for your ultimate wedding photographer who loves working with kids AND capturing your most loved up moments?
Get in touch here and let’s get the party started, kids and all.
Sean.
