Should You Invite Children to Your Wedding?

Deciding whether to invite children to your wedding is a big consideration for many couples. While kids can bring togetherness, joy, laughter, and adorable dance moves to the celebration, they can also add a layer of complexity (and stress!) to the planning process. Whether you’re choosing to have a kid-free wedding or planning a family-friendly affair, here are some helpful tips and ideas to make the day run smoothly.

Decide Early and Be Clear on Invitations
The first step is to make your decision early and communicate it clearly on your invitations and wedding website. If you're inviting children, be specific by listing their names on the invitation. If it's an adults-only event, consider wording like:

"We respectfully request an adults-only celebration."

"Due to limited space, we are unable to accommodate children."

Clear communication helps avoid confusion and gives parents plenty of time to arrange childcare if needed. An easy “out” is to blame the capacity or wedding venue restrictions (whether they are true or not!)

Photo: Trendphotography.ie.

Consider a Children's Area or Activities Table
If children are attending your wedding, plan ways to keep them entertained or allocate them roles for the wedding:

1. Provide little children packs to keep the little ones entertained throughout the day.
2. Assign roles throughout the day to keep children occupied. The obvious ones such as pageboy and flower girl can be expanded on (e.g. mini ushers, junior groomsman/bridesmaid, guestbook helpers, dance floor starters). 
3. Create a kids' table with colouring books, crayons, puzzles, or games.
4. Provide kid-friendly snacks and drinks.

Keeping little ones occupied means their parents can relax and enjoy the day too.

Hire a Babysitter or Childcare Professional
Consider hiring an on-site babysitter or childcare service, especially if you’re expecting several young guests. They can supervise games, help with meals, and even provide a separate space where children can nap if needed. Some venues, like ourselves here at Lucan Spa Hotel, have flexible event spaces that can be adapted to include a kids’ zone. Check our Nannies for Weddings for more details on this service.

Photo: Holstphoto.com.

Offer a Child-Friendly Menu
Kids don’t always love gourmet meals, so offer a child-friendly option such as chicken goujons, pasta, or sausages and mash. Many venues, including Lucan Spa Hotel, can accommodate children’s meals alongside the main wedding menu. This isn’t limited to the main meal either. Ensure there are adequate options for children during drinks reception and evening catering buffets if relevant.

Time Your Schedule with Kids in Mind
If children are part of your guest list, try to plan the day with them in mind:

1. Avoid very late dinners or extended ceremonies.
2. Include small breaks or transition times for children to stretch and move.

If including kids in the ceremony (e.g. as flower girls or ring bearers), make sure they’re comfortable with what’s expected. A quick rehearsal is definitely recommended beforehand to put children at ease and familiarise themselves with the ceremony space beforehand to ensure no last-minute nerves (or tantrums!)

Photo: Trendphotography.ie.

Keep Safety in Mind
Ensure your venue is safe for children by checking for hazards like open water, sharp corners, or breakable décor. Talk to your venue coordinator about child-friendly set-ups. Lucan Spa Hotel staff are happy to help make your day safe and stress-free for all guests.

Consider a Mixed Approach
If you’re torn between inviting kids or not, consider a compromise:

1. Invite close family children only.
2. Allow children for the ceremony and meal, but arrange evening childcare so the party can continue kid-free.
3. Have an adults-only wedding but offer recommendations for local babysitters or accommodations with childcare options.

Remember, it is your day and you can choose to have the day the way you want. 

Final Thoughts
Children at weddings can be a delightful addition, bringing energy and heart to your big day. With a little planning, you can create an event that’s fun for guests of all ages. Whether you're embracing a kid-friendly celebration or keeping things strictly adults-only, the key is to decide what works best for you as a couple.

Planning your wedding at Lucan Spa Hotel? We’re here to help make your day smooth and enjoyable for everyone—big and small! For all enquiries, click on our enquiry form here.