The Kids Stay in the Wedding Pictures
Heidy wrote:
We have been together for three years and plan on getting married next May. I have 2 children from a previous marriage and he has one and we have 1 together. He has adopted my children and he is pretty much the only father they have known and we would like do do something to include them in the ceremony.Do you have any suggestions? Also our family and friends have children and we would like to have a kid-friendly reception too. Do you have any suggestions on how to incorporate kids fun/area into the reception?
Hi Heidy,
Clearly the best way to incorporate the children into the wedding party is to include them in the actual ceremony. Give the children ring bearing or rose-petal scattering responsibilities and they will feel like they are center stage.
In terms of the reception, it is very common here in Utah to have children present. Because our culture is so family oriented, having children as part of the celebration has become commonplace for many couples. If finances aren’t an issue, why not make the reception a celebration of uniting two families and focus on the children. A circus theme with inflatable bouncy toys, a photo booth (or some equivalent), popcorn machine and mini hotdogs and hamburgers would make for a festive time that celebrates the children as well.
Another idea would be to arm the older children with rugged digital cameras and make them the unofficial photographers of the day. Because children tend to think creatively, you may come away with some of the most personal memories of your wedding.
At the very least, have someone assigned to keep the children happy. Often times a room or designated children’s area with a TV, a Disney movie and a table of goodies will keep the kids entertained for hours. I have also seen some weddings that have created a “kids only” buffet table full of finger foods and smaller portions. Perfect for the little ones.
Rebecca Hinman - Event Coordinator
