Children at the Reception
by Little Details

Do we include them or not? Will they behave and get along, or will they cause a fuss and ruin the reception?

The big question these days when planning one of the most important days in your lifetime is not about the music, the cake, the menu or the seating plans. The question is, if we invite children to our wedding will they behave?

When you plan a social function for adults and add children to the equation the results could be disastrous. If you plan a child oriented activities at these same functions you will have a night that will create great memories for everyone.

Here are some tips that could make your decision about inviting children to your wedding that much easier:

1) Have the reception venue set aside a small area for the children, an area where they can play pre-planned games and activities (perhaps where the receiving area was)

2) Delegate a member of your wedding party to prepare colouring activities with crayons (no markers please), colouring books or just plain paper for the children to draw on.

3) Include board games that they can play in groups of 4 or more so that they can keep each other busy.

4) Pack some books and some throw cushions for a quiet activity for the ones that tire easily and chances are the older children will love reading them to the younger ones.

5) Ask if anyone has any hand held video games (i.e. gameboys) that can be borrowed for the night.

6) Instead of playing traditional wedding games for adults, how about a round of musical chairs where the children are given small tokens (loot bags) for participating and feeling a part of the festivities.

More importantly, one and all, young and old will enjoy your wedding and the memories that are created by having family and friends close by will be remembered always.