When deciding on who to invite to your wedding, you’ll need to determine whether to welcome children since many of your guests will likely want to know. Your choice will also affect other elements, from wedding venues to catering. Here are some factors to consider during the decision-making process.

Making the Decision

Children can light up a room, but they can also be demanding and unpredictable, which might add stress at your wedding. Inviting children means their parents will likely be busy chasing after them, and it can affect your budget as the guest list and catering needs swell.

On the other hand, having young relatives at the wedding can make it more special. More people may be able to attend as well if they don’t have to find childcare for the event.

Offering Compromises

Your decision doesn’t have to be as cut and dried as not allowing any children or allowing all of them. You can offer compromises and restrictions, such as only asking close family members or those in your wedding party to bring their children.

An age limit could also be helpful, such as only allowing children aged 10 and up since they’re less energetic and more well-mannered.

Ultimately, it’s up to you, but you should decide before much planning is done or invitations go out, as it will affect aspects like the menu, entertainment, and even which wedding venues are suitable.

Telling Your Guests

Once you’ve made your decision, clearly communicate it to your guests on the wedding invitations. If you decide on restrictions, try to frame the decision positively to avoid upsetting your guests; for example, ask them to find childcare so they can have a break and fully enjoy themselves at the wedding.

Accommodating the Little Ones

If you do invite children, a kids’ menu should be available for them with options like chicken tenders, French fries, sliders, and pizza. You can also hire a children’s entertainer and professional babysitters for the reception to give parents a chance to relax. Look into wedding venues with an adjoining room to the reception area where activities and games can be held for the children.

When it’s time to begin vetting wedding venues appropriate for your vision and guestlist, start with the Manoa Grand Ballroom in Honolulu. Family-owned and -operated for five generations, the venue offers an array of room options as well as comprehensive services, from catering to audio-visual wedding rentals. They can seat up to 500 guests, and their ballroom can be divided into two separate rooms. Learn more about their rooms, equipment, and reservations online, and call (808) 946-6758 to reserve your wedding rentals today.