I tied the knot 15 years ago, before social media had everyone voicing opinions on every detail of modern life. Back then, decisions about the type of wedding, decorations, and guest lists were made through heartfelt conversations with family and friends, rather than by seeking advice online—an approach that I might have taken today.
Our wedding was a truly personal affair. We reserved a modest venue, decorated it ourselves, and my wonderful mother-in-law and aunt prepared an abundance of food for approximately 200 guests. My parents contributed desserts, beverages, and floral arrangements. Additionally, my father-in-law set up a sound system that played curated CD mixes made by my partner and me. The entertainment was provided by talented family and friends who sang and performed throughout the event. It was all done on a budget yet proved to be incredibly enjoyable.
And yes, we did invite children to our wedding without hesitation. It was a natural decision for us. My partner’s youngest sister was just 8 years old at the time, and he had numerous cousins ranging from infants to teenagers—it didn’t even occur to us to exclude them.
My perspective shifted once I became a parent myself and began receiving wedding invitations. I became acutely aware of whether children were included, as it often influenced my ability to attend. Could I leave my baby overnight? Was a babysitter financially feasible for such an occasion? Although I managed to attend most of the weddings that didn’t allow children, I unfortunately had to miss a few.
Having dealt with my own children at large gatherings, I completely understand why some couples opt for kid-free weddings. Children can be loud and unpredictable. I once brought my 2-year-old to a wedding, and before I knew it, he had dived into a display of cupcakes, much to the amusement of the bride.
Every couple should decide what works best for them regarding children’s attendance on their special day. If a no-kids policy is chosen, it’s important for parents to make an effort to attend without their children. However, I would like to advocate for the inclusion of children at weddings—not just because it’s more convenient for parents, but because having a lively group of kids at my own wedding was one of the highlights of the day.
Our wedding was vibrant and occasionally chaotic. A group of cousins performed a charming dance to “Put a Smile On Your Face,” which was both endearing and slightly awkward. Babies cooed and cried during the ceremony, but it didn’t detract from our experience. Typically, parents will take their little ones outside if they start to fuss.
The presence of children made our wedding feel warm and familial. It embodied what family means to my partner and me. The idea of merging our families—embracing every member, including the youngsters—was a significant aspect of our union.
While not every couple envisions starting a family together, the essence of a wedding is about the gathering of loved ones to celebrate the union. Children, with all their unpredictability, symbolize family in its most genuine form.
So, if you prefer a child-free wedding, go for it. It may be quieter and less chaotic, but if you’re leaning towards including kids, I assure you, you won’t regret it. Children bring joy, laughter, and countless cherished memories to any occasion.
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In summary, inviting children to weddings can enhance the experience, making it a memorable and family-oriented event. Each couple should feel empowered to make decisions that reflect their values and vision for their special day.
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