If you are planning an adults-only wedding, it can be tricky to communicate that with your friends and family. Some may not understand your decision to have a “kids-free” wedding, but it is your wedding day and your choice. Continue reading for a few tips on how to word the request to your guests clearly and respectfully.
Include A Note In The Save The Dates
It is important to let guests know of your adults-only request as early as possible. You can include this information in your save the date cards. The note can be as short or detailed as you like. If you want to keep it short and sweet, include statements like “We respectfully request no children under 16 at the reception,” or “Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate children at the reception– thank you for your understanding.” If you want to provide your guests a more specific reason for your decision to avoid questions or potential confrontation a statement such as, “Although we love your children, we regretfully cannot accommodate them at the venue due to restricted numbers,” will suffice.
Provide Childcare Information
It’s customary to include local childcare information for guests that are traveling to your wedding. This allows families to decide if they want to travel to the destination with their children or find trusted overnight care for them in their hometown. You can recommend specific babysitters and provide their contact information or hire a professional service for your guests’ to utilize. It’s important to provide this information as early as possible so your guests can plan ahead.
Exceptions To The Rule
If you have any friends or family members that are new moms and are currently nursing, it is standard to make an exception for them. If other parents’ question this, all you have to say is that the mother is nursing, and bringing her child was the only way she could attend.
Other exceptions are completely up to you and your partner. If a guest’s childcare falls through the day before the wedding, you will have to decide if their children can accompany them. If you have children in the wedding party, most commonly the ring bearer or flower girl, you must decide what they will do after the ceremony. If you are upfront with your requests and give guests enough time to plan ahead, your adults-only wedding will go smoothly for everyone!
Save Time Planning With Wedding411!
You are in the process of planning the most important celebration/party of your life. Like most engaged couples, you could probably use help in navigating through the numerous decisions that need to be made. Don’t spend hours of your time searching for the information and vendors you need! Wedding411 is designed to be your main resource for local products and services, saving you time and putting everything you need at your fingertips. Take a look at our planning resource page for local planners who are here to help you achieve your dream wedding.
We’d love to hear from you! Email info@wedding411ondemand.com with any questions, comments, and suggestions you may have, and be sure to follow us on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Are you looking for more advice? Don’t forget to check out our blog!