Wedding Invitations

This can be a very touchy subject and should be handled with care. Whether it’s considered rude  to exclude children at a wedding or reception is a hot debatable topic.

As the bride or groom, before deciding to exclude children, you may want to consider how many guests actually have kids and how it will affect them. If you decide on an Adult Only reception, be sure to include it on the invitation.
 
As the guest, if you receive an invitation and it indicates it for Adults Only, try not to get offended. For all you know, space may be an issue. Or the budget allows for only so many to attend.  Maybe their concerned about the safety of the kids (especially if their doing it by a cliff).  Or perhaps they’re aiming for a nice calm and quite, non disruptive atmosphere. Put yourself in their shoes and just be thankful they invited you.

Before bringing the kids, ask yourself, “Will they behave or be disruptive? Will their behavior make me or others want to leave early?”

One reception I went to had only just a handful of children and they truly were a handful too. They were running around, being careless, touching and breaking antiques. Where were the parents?  I have no idea but it was a nightmare.

If you bring children, it is a good idea to not only keep an eye on them at the event, but also discuss with them ahead of time expectations and wedding etiquette.