Time and again I see couples asking themselves the same question when planning their wedding: Should we invite children - yes or no? And quite honestly, both answers are completely legitimate.
There are good reasons to plan the ceremony exclusively for adults. For some couples, the desire for peace and quiet, certain procedures or a clear focus on the wedding ceremony are paramount - this is absolutely understandable. But if you consciously for a wedding with children If a child decides to stay at home, this decision should be made with conviction. Children need attention, suitable activities and clear structures - otherwise they quickly feel out of place. And the parents will feel that too.
Over the last few years, I have attended many weddings with children - with very different concepts. What I have learned: Children must not simply „run along“, they need their own place at the party. When this is done well, it creates a special dynamic. A lightness that is infectious. And moments that are honest, spontaneous and often more touching than perfectly planned program points.
In this post, I share my experiences and show you how a wedding with children can work - without chaos, but with life.
My personal experience: Why family-friendly weddings need more planning
We as Location operator - but also as parents of three - know all too well how important it is to celebrate family-friendly and child-friendly to shape the future. I have experienced for myself how challenging a wedding can be for parents. One of my most incisive experiences was a wedding to which I heavily pregnant with two small children (three and five at the time) alone without my husband when I arrived. He had to stay at home to Wine production to cope - this is the reality in the Winegrower life from.
We came to the wedding ceremony without Lunch, because there wasn't enough time. Hungry, we looked forward to the champagne reception - only to find that it was exclusively raw oysters gave. Very chic, very high quality, but neither for Infants still for Pregnant women suitable.
The location was fantastic - a meadow with a direct Beach access and a view of the sea. A visual highlight, but a permanent problem for parents with small children. Alarm program. My three-year-old wanted to spend the whole day in the water. However, it was October and 20 degrees - not exactly swimming season.
My friend, the bride, had been thinking for weeks about whether the children should attend a separate Children's table or sit with their parents. However, the back and forth meant that we forgot to Seats for the children to be planned. The result: two active toddlers on my lap, along with a proper Baby bump - not a relaxed starting point for a dinner.
Then it was finally time for the Dinner - was served with a creamy Parsnip soup ... but with very spicy chorizo sausage, which was already included in the soup. For the minis with it inedible.
At the Family style dinner The plates at the table were in short supply. Fortunately, the children got enough, but I hardly got anything myself. And when the long-awaited dessert finally arrived, it turned out that the traditional Wedding cake vs. Fruit pies (rhubarb and apple, rather tart) had been substituted. Certainly delicious for adults - but for my little ones Gourmets, that focus on something Chocolaty or Cupcake-like had been looking forward to, unfortunately disappointing.
I was honestly facilitates, when the evening was over and said goodbye shortly after the first dance.
All guests without children were still raving about this wedding months later. And me? For me it was exhausting, frustrating and a single Juggling maneuvers - physically and mentally.
I never had the heart to tell my girlfriend. But as a venue owner, this day was a huge Learning moment. Since then it has been a real Concerns, to support bridal couples in organizing their wedding for Pleasant for families and for Children beautiful design.
That is why I am sharing our most important Recommendations from many years Experience.
Children at the wedding - yes or no?
Many couples ask themselves this question. And rightly so. There is no one-size-fits-all answer - just a decision that suits you, your guests and your day.
A wedding without children can be calmer, more predictable and more consistent. Especially if many guests are arriving without family, there are no suitable play facilities or the event is very structured. Then a clear „adults only“ is perfectly fine - provided you communicate it early and respectfully.
However, you should be aware of this: Many parents take their children with them everywhere as a matter of course. For some, it is unimaginable to have a wedding without their children to visit. Some feel excluded or even insulted if they are not allowed to bring their children. Others, on the other hand, simply No possibility of organizing care, or it involves a lot of effort and expense.
However, if you decide to for a celebration with children, then this decision should also be made with conviction. Because simply „tolerating“ children doesn't work. They need space, attention and a bit of planning - then they don't become a challenge, but enrich the day with their energy, spontaneity and openness.
How to turn a wedding into an experience for children
If you decide to invite children to your wedding, then this decision should be made consciously and with conviction. Letting children „run along“ on the sidelines rarely works well - and often causes unrest among parents and guests. To make it a successful day for everyone, it is important to keep children to be actively involved in the planning.
It helps to get a clear picture in advance: How many children will be there? At what age? And what do they need to feel comfortable? The better prepared you are, the more relaxed your party will be.
Children need space - the more, the better
Children feel comfortable where they feel Move freely are allowed to. A wedding is a long, unfamiliar day for them - with lots of impressions, lots of waiting and many moments where the program is aimed at adults. This makes it all the more important that children don't feel they have to sit still or be quiet all the time.
A well thought-out approach to space is therefore one of the greatest leverage, to make a party child-friendly. The important thing is not that you offer lots of toys or big attractions - but that you Creates space, that clearly show: „You are allowed to be here. You can move around here. And you are safe here.“
The ideal location is one in which children different areas can use. This allows parents to keep a close eye on their children without having to constantly accompany them. At the same time, the main area of the party remains calm and structured - which also supports your event.
The mixture of freedom of movement, visibility and safety ensures that children do not become overloaded or restless. And this in turn means that parents can relax, stay longer and really enjoy the day.
In short - ideal:
- Meadows or yards for racing
- Small play areas within sight
- Places where children don't have to be quiet
- Areas that are not dangerous or difficult to see
Making sensible use of indoor and outdoor areas
A wedding can last for many hours - and children need a lot of time during this period. Varied environments, so as not to become restless or bored. Depending on the weather, time of day and age of the children, it makes sense to use both Outdoor surfaces for moving as well as Indoor areas to unwind to offer.
There are lots of simple ways to keep children busy outdoors - without much effort. Open spaces for running or small game ideas provide exercise and a good mood. Particularly practical: many of these activities can be set up close to the adults so that parents can relax and watch with one eye.
At the same time, it is important that A place for peace and quiet inside is planned. Some children like to withdraw when things get busier. Others get tired in the evening or need a break. A small room or a corner with soft seating can make a big difference here - without disturbing the party.
The combination of active and quiet zones ensures that children can follow their needs - depending on the time of day, energy level and age. And this is exactly what makes the difference between „strenuous“ and „successful“.
In short - outdoors is ideal:
- Garden games such as cornhole, giant jenga or throwing games
- Soap bubbles, stilts or simple movement games
- Meadows to run around in
- Shady spots for the little ones
Indoors is recommended:
- a quiet play area with carpet, books or building blocks
- Ideal for evening hours or bad weather
The children's corner at dinner - small idea, big impact
For many wedding couples, dinner together is a central part of the program - and at the same time a A challenge for parents with young children. Because that's when everyone should be sitting, listening, eating, talking ... and as quietly as possible. This is difficult for children - especially if they have been there for a long time or find the situation boring.
A simple solution with a big impact: a children's corner right next to the parents' area. No separate room, no constant standing up - but a clearly recognizable area in which children can move around. keep busy, but not isolated. This not only helps the children, but also the parents - because they can stay seated, eat and still keep an eye on their offspring.
It is important that the games there are quiet and safe. Open materials such as pens (washable only!), stickers, puzzles or Duplo work well. Low tables, rugs or cushions also make the corner cozy and inviting. Board and card games are ideal for older children.
Most children come in these areas quickly to rest, because they have something of their own - a place where they can play while the adults eat. This means that dinner is not a test of patience, but remains enjoyable for everyone.
In a nutshell - suitable for the children's corner:
- Coloring books, pencils (washable only!), stickers
- Duplo, magnetic games, wooden puzzles
- Board games & card games for older children
- Seat cushions or carpets
- Small tables or low play areas next to the parents
Rest areas for short breaks
Even the most active children get tired at some point. At the latest in the evening or after many new impressions, they need a break. Without a suitable place to retreat to, this can quickly lead to Restlessness or excessive demands - both the children themselves and their parents.
That's why it's worthwhile when planning Rest areas should be planned. These do not have to be large or elaborate, but they should be clearly recognizable and easily accessible - ideally away from the main volume, but still close to their parents.
A darkened room with Baby monitor reception offers small children the opportunity to be accompanied to sleep. For older children, a cozy corner with a bed is often enough. Beanbags or cushions, where they can lie down for a moment, read or simply take a deep breath. Those who use this space ensure that families can still experience the later part of the celebration - without stress.
A room with a TV or games console is also ideal, where a movie is shown after dinner or child-friendly video games are available. This way, the children can have a quiet chat, withdraw and parents can continue to enjoy the evening in a relaxed atmosphere.
Especially if you are planning a long wedding, with an open end or a lot of program in the evening, a quiet zone will quickly become one of the Most used places for parents with children.
In a nutshell - useful for quiet zones:
- a chill zone with beanbags or mattresses for older children
- a darkened room with baby monitor reception for infants
- a safe place where parents can accompany their children to sleep or put them down to sleep
- a room with a TV where you can watch movies or play video games
Childcare - is it worth it?
Not every wedding needs childcare - but it can be a real Relaxation factor especially if several families with small children are invited. After all, even the best play areas are of little use if there is no one to supervise, explain or resolve minor conflicts.
Professional support or a Creative animation program such as craft tables, treasure hunts or outdoor games not only takes the pressure off parents, but also brings structure and calm to the children's groups. It doesn't have to be a big „entertainment program“ - often one person who keeps an overview, brings ideas and accompanies the children sensitively is enough.
Many parents are more likely to decide to stay longer or to join in the fun again in the evening if they know: My child is Well employed and in good hands. You as the host will also notice the difference - the overall atmosphere will be more relaxed and balanced.
So if your guest list includes several families or you simply want to make sure that the children are really included, childcare is a useful addition to the rest of the planning.
In short - they make sense:
- Supervised craft tables or painting stations
- Simple outdoor games with instructions
- Small programs such as treasure hunts or movement rallies
- A permanent caregiver who keeps an eye on the children's area
Seating for children - often underestimated
A point that is easily overlooked during planning, but has a big impact in everyday life: the right seat for every child. Because children don't just sit on any chair - at least not for long and not well. If no well thought-out solution is prepared here, eating quickly becomes exhausting for the whole family.
It is therefore worth clarifying this with the parents in advance, which chair is needed:
- A high chair for toddlers
- A Tripp-Trapp or similar chair with footrest for children from approx. 2 years of age
- A normal chair with cushion or booster seat for older children
Ideally, you should pass this information on to the venue so that the service can make the necessary preparations and set up the right seats. Nothing is more unpleasant than a family only realizing during dinner: „The high chair is missing here.“
If you are thinking about buying a own children's table this should be well thought out. This is only recommended from around 4 to 5 years of age - and only if the children know each other or can make friends quickly. The important thing is Two to three places available, so that they can change flexibly. This creates a relaxed dynamic rather than group pressure.
In a nutshell - take note:
- High chair, Tripp-Trapp or normal chair?
- Consultation with the parents in advance
- Passing on information to the location
- Children's table only under suitable conditions
- Always think flexibly: plan changing stations
Child-friendly food - practical tips
A good menu is part of every wedding - and it goes without saying that a Child-friendly meals be. Because what is a culinary highlight for adults can quickly lead to frustration for children: too spicy, too exotic, too complicated. The result is hungry children and stressed parents.
You don't need an elaborate extra card. Already Small adjustments make a big difference: mild dishes without dominant spices, simple side dishes without sauce, flexible portion sizes and above all: an earlier serving time. Because children often need something to eat sooner - ideally before the mood changes.
Communication with the caterer is also important. If it is clear that children will be eating, they can plan suitable alternatives from the outset. A portion of pasta with butter or a plate of vegetables without everything is often more helpful than a fancy mini gourmet dish.
Ask the parents in advance about any special requests or intolerances. Even if you don't have any special children's menus on the menu - it's often enough for the team to reacted spontaneously and straightforwardly.
In short - discuss with the caterer:
- Mild, simple dishes
- Side dishes without sauce
- Portions suitable for children
- Earlier serving time for children
- Enable simple extra requests
Drinks for children - it pays to think ahead
It is also worth consciously planning for children when it comes to drinks. After all, if glasses tip over, drinks don't taste good or the children feel left out, this creates unnecessary stress - even though it could be avoided with little effort.
For the little ones Cup with lid and straw ideal. They reduce spills, are easy to hold and ensure that drinks can be taken away without getting everything wet. Many parents bring their own cups - but if you provide a few on site, you'll show that you've thought of the little ones too.
For older children and teens, it can be something special. A small „Pimp your soda bar“ with syrups, fruit and mint almost always go down well. Non-alcoholic cocktails with colorful straws or ice cubes with berries are also fun - and make the children feel „big“. This not only strengthens the sense of community, but also prevents cravings for „grown-up drinks“.
With these little things you signal: Children are welcome - and not just tolerated.
In a nutshell - the following are recommended:
- Cup with lid and straw for small children
- Non-alcoholic cocktails or fruit mixes for older children
- „Pimp your soda bar“ with syrups, berries and mint
- Colorful details such as drinking straws or ice cubes with fruit
Involving children in the day - small roles, big impact
Children don't just want to watch - they want to Part of the action be. Giving them small tasks not only boosts their self-confidence, but also creates a real connection to the celebration. They feel needed, seen and important - and that's exactly what makes your day special for them too.
Already quite small children can Simple rolls For example, scattering flowers when moving in, bringing a sign or symbolically handing over the rings. With a little preparation and the right instructions, this works wonderfully - and often makes for touching moments.
Older children and teens are happy about a little more Responsibility. For example, they can look after the candy bar, hand out fans or program booklets, play a piece of music or help with the toast. Instructing small games or helping to organize a mini treasure hunt can also be a great way to get them involved.
It is important that the tasks are age-appropriate and not be under pressure. It's not about performing perfectly - it's about being there. It is precisely this participation that ensures that children feel valued and experience your day as a real family celebration.
In short - possible roles for children:
For small children:
- Scatter flowers
- Carrying signs („Here comes the bride“)
- symbolically hand over the rings
For older children and teens:
- Manage candy bar or dessert station
- Distribute program cards or fans
- Play a piece of music or show a prepared dance
- support during games or kick-offs
Our conclusion: Relaxed celebrations with children
A child-friendly wedding doesn't have to be complicated - and you don't have to No compromises in your style or decoration concept make. A colorful, loud bouncy castle is not a must. Much more important are Well thought-out, quiet areas, suitable seating, a lovingly planned food concept and small play areas, that can be harmoniously integrated into your daily routine.
When children are happy, their parents can relax - and that's exactly what makes your party a real experience for everyone.
We are happy to support you and show you how, how you can use the available space and rooms to our winery can be used optimally for families and children. Because your wedding celebration should not only be stylish, but also A beautiful, relaxed and unforgettable day for all generations become.
Best regards from the Schloss Janson Winery
→ Would you like to know how we can implement your ideas on site? Then arrange your appointment now Viewing appointment - We look forward to meeting you in person.
