When imagining your dream wedding, you probably picture each guest that attends having a great time laughing and dancing the night away, or at least I do anyway!

While some couples prefer that children not attend their wedding, there are others who don’t mind in the least and welcome kids with open arms. Here are a few ways to keep said kids content and happy during your big day. Not only will you have thankful parents, you’ll be setting the bar for other weddings among your friends + family to come!

1. RSVP. 

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Firstly, If you are inviting several guests with children, be sure they know to mention them in the response. This way, planning for their attendance will be much easier knowing how many you have to accommodate.

2. SNACKS

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Children get hungry easily, and between the ceremony, pictures, cocktail hours and waiting for the food at the reception, they can get cranky. Consider having mini snack bags set aside with small treats specifically for those with children. You’ll probably have parents holding back tears from how thoughtful you are.

3. EXITS

If you know there will be a good number of young children at your wedding (including infants), you want to make sure your venue has accessible exits that can be used during your ceremony, preferably in the back. Of course, you do not want to automatically exile parents to the back of the room, but if possible, have your ushers direct them toward the end of the side isles in case they need a quick exit.

4. KIDS TABLE

Credit: Kristyn Hogan

A kids table is a fantastic idea to keep little ones occupied at the reception. Having activity packs available with things like crayons, paper, small games, puzzles and the like will ensure they are kept busy and learn at the same time. You can even have personalized decor by putting names on cups, or favors specifically for them. Not only will it make them feel included, it also gives them a chance to socialize with other children and not feel so out of place. In fact, they might be having so much fun they won’t want to leave towards the end of the event!

5. FOOD

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Food is a big aspect when it comes to kids, because most of them are picky eaters. Most food vendors will have a kids menu that can be chosen from a head of time. Remember to have water, milk or soda options for them. A more personalized idea can be having juice boxes at each place setting.

6. DESSERTS

Credit: Hoosier Homemade 

A cupcake set up is one of my favorite ideas for a kids table. This way the parents do not have to worry about getting them a piece of cake. In the middle of the table (or off to the side at another table), cupcakes can be set up for the kids to take.

7. WEDDING FAVORS

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If your favors are not child friendly, think about making a simple kid based party favor. One commonly used favor is candy! Candy tables are becoming quite popular in the wedding industry, even for adult favors. Towards the end of the event, guests can go up to the table and fill bags up with their candy of choice. It is eye catching, interactive, and can be an inexpensive alternative. A healthier option can be a ‘candy’ buffet of mixed nuts, berries and granola.

These are a few of our top picks on making your wedding memorable for all those attending. It is our hope that these ideas help ensure your big day goes smoothly and that everyone, including the kids, have a great time!

Have other ideas or suggestions? Do let us know in the comments!

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Featured Image by BG Productions