Should children be invited to a wedding?

by My Kent Family reporter

We're thinking of inviting children, including our own, to our wedding. Do you have any advice?

An important first step is to decide what restrictions you are putting on children's ages at your wedding
An important first step is to decide what restrictions you are putting on children's ages at your wedding

Kristen Harding, a mobile creches expert from Tinies Childcare (www.tinies.com), says: "There are options that can allow you to have the day you've dreamed of, while including those little 'angels' in your life too.

"Whether you have little ones of your own or 25 nieces and nephews, inviting them to the wedding can often be an added stress - and that's the last thing a bride needs.

"Decide what restrictions you're putting on ages - some couples limit it to only babies, while others only have older children.

'Give older children something to do to make them feel special'

"Give older children something to do to make them feel special. For younger children, have some entertainment - whether you hire a mobile creche or nannies, or simply lay out a spread of toys and games, there will be times when you want them to be distracted.

"When it comes to food, go simple and don't expect them to eat the same thing as the adults. But avoid ketchup - nothing ruins a pretty dress faster.

"While it can be nice to have all the children seated together, it's also likely to be louder, and fidgety children on squeaky chairs make a racket. Think about having plush seats or beanbags for the children, and grouping them with someone who can supervise the volume.

"Finally, think about the height of your decorations if there are toddlers about. Whether its flower arrangements to trip over or wisps of fabric to pull down, keep things simple and out of reach."

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