Kids at the wedding? Kids not at the wedding? Rather than causing a rift with your family and friends, consider throwing a kids party during your wedding reception. Hire a professional sitter (here in Colorado we have Wedding and Event Sitters by Charity) and create a place where kids actually want to be! Close enough so their parents can come and check on them easily and bring them back to the reception for a little dancing — but far enough away that they aren’t siting through a 3 course dinner, cake cutting and toasts.
Photos by Jenna Walker Photography (this was one of my favorite weddings ever!_
There are a million ideas to keep the kiddos happy at the reception as well. Consider making special kids welcome bags with activities to keep them happy during dinner (because most macaroni and cheese is finished far more quickly than the salad and filet being served to the parents!) crayons and art supplies. Ask each child to draw you a picture for your wedding day. Encourage them to write a note telling you their favorite part of the wedding day. These honest (and usually hilarious) pearls of wisdom will keep you giggling for years to come.
Photos courtesy of: A Wedding Guide Book, Affordable Utah Weddings,Wedding Paper Divas
