Getting married and want some top tips for children at your wedding? This blog is for you! It will give you some really useful things to think about for your wedding to make it run as smoothly as possible. My biggest advice – let the kids be kids and if something goes wrong – don’t worry!

I am a father myself and my boy has what I call superpowers- in the form of ADHD & Autism. So if you have anyone with additional needs attending – don’t worry. I get it and nothing will phase me!

If you don’t want children at your wedding – most parents will understand. Honestly, it is your choice.

Weddings are magical, memorable, and full of love—but they can also be long, overwhelming days, especially for little ones. If you’re planning a wedding and inviting children or babies, there’s no need to panic. With a bit of planning, you can ensure your day is enjoyable for everyone—big and small!

Here are some top tips for children at your wedding to make your wedding child-friendly while keeping the adults happy, too.

1. Decide if You Want Children at Your Wedding

First things first: do you want kids at your wedding?

This might seem like an obvious question, but it’s worth considering early on. Some couples love the idea of a family-filled celebration with kids running around, while others prefer an adults-only affair.

If you choose to invite children, make sure your invitations clearly state this. If it’s a child-free wedding, be clear but kind in your communication—most parents will understand.

2. Set Up a Kid-Friendly Zone

If you’re having little ones at your wedding, creating a dedicated kid-friendly space can be a game-changer.

Here’s what you can include:

• Activities: Think colouring books, puzzles, or small toys. A few low-maintenance activities can keep kids entertained for hours.
• Comfort Items: Include cushions, blankets, or a quiet corner where toddlers can rest if they need a break.
• Supervised Fun: Consider hiring a professional babysitter or children’s entertainer to oversee the area. That way, parents can enjoy the wedding stress-free.

Bonus tip: Position the kid-friendly zone somewhere that’s easy to access but far enough from the main action to avoid distractions.

3. Provide Child-Friendly Food

While your guests might love your fancy three-course menu, children may not. Offering kid-friendly food options is an easy way to keep the little ones happy and well-fed.

Think chicken nuggets, mini pizzas, or sandwiches—simple, crowd-pleasing options. And don’t forget to cater to dietary restrictions or allergies!

4. Time Your Events Wisely

Children’s energy levels don’t align with a full-day wedding timeline, so think about how your schedule will affect them.

• Ceremony: A long ceremony can be tough for young children to sit through. So if you have a child get someone to take them outside if they need to go.
• Meals: Plan meals at regular times to avoid mid-afternoon meltdowns.
• Bedtime: If your wedding runs late, make sure there’s a quiet area where little ones can nap or wind down.

5. Keep Them Entertained During the Ceremony

The ceremony is the heart of your wedding day, and it’s also when children are most likely to get fidgety. These top tips for children at your wedding should hopefully make your ceremony as easy as possible.

Consider having a few discreet distractions for kids during this time, such as:

• Quiet toys or books.
• Small snack packs (non-messy, of course).
• Activity bags provided at the entrance for families.
• Have someone ready to take them out for a walk if they need a break.

If you’re worried about disruptions of other kids, ask parents to sit near the back so they can make a quick exit if needed. Leave a comment if you find this top tips for children at your wedding blog useful.

6. Plan for Potential Noise

Babies and toddlers don’t understand “quiet, please!” If a little one gets upset during the ceremony or speeches, that’s okay—it’s part of life.

However, you can minimise interruptions by having a designated “quiet space” where parents can take their children if they need a moment. This could be a side room or a nearby outdoor area. Check with your venue if their is one.

7. Involve the Kids in Your Day

Including children in your wedding can make them feel special and more engaged in the day.

Here are a few ways to involve them:

• Roles in the ceremony: Flower girls, ring bearers, or even junior bridesmaids and groomsmen.
• Special mentions: Give them a shoutout during your speech
• Interactive moments: Think bubble machines during your exit or anything you think they might like.

8. Consider a Professional Babysitter or Nanny

If you’re inviting a lot of children, hiring a professional babysitter or nanny can be a lifesaver. They can entertain the kids, handle minor meltdowns, and even take the little ones to bed if your venue offers overnight accommodation. This is one of my main top tips for children at your wedding.

Parents will thank you for it, and it’ll give them the chance to let loose and enjoy your day. I would highly recommend the Shropshire Wedding Nanny (Who works anywhere)

9. Capture the Chaos (and the Cuteness!)

Children bring an extra layer of unpredictability to weddings—which can make for some of the best moments. From cheeky grins to spontaneous dance moves, kids are often the stars of the show when it comes to fun, unposed moments. These top tips for children at your wedding are to ensure you have the best day!

As a wedding photographer specialising in 99% unposed, non-boring wedding photography, I love capturing those candid shots of kids being, well, kids. These moments add personality and charm to your wedding story. Another top tips for children at your wedding is please tell parents and grandparents the last thing I need to hear is “say cheese, look at the camera”

10. Have a Flexible Mindset

Even with the best-laid plans, kids will be kids. There might be tantrums, sticky hands, or someone running onto the dancefloor at the wrong moment—but that’s part of the joy of having them there.

A relaxed, go-with-the-flow attitude will help you and your guests enjoy the day, no matter what unexpected moments arise. With all the top tips for children at your wedding in the world the most important thing is to not get stressed.

Tip Tips For Children at Your Wedding

Including children in your wedding can bring so much joy, energy, and laughter to your celebration. It creates an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and makes your day feel like a true family affair.

With a little preparation and the right mindset, you can ensure the day runs smoothly while still being as fun and memorable as you’ve always imagined.

Let’s Capture the Moments That Matter

Kids at weddings make for some of the best, most authentic memories. The last thing I want is for anyone to say things like “say cheese, look at the camera”

If you’re planning a wedding with children and want non-boring, 99% unposed photography that tells your story, I’d love to be part of your day. Follow me on Instagram (@andygriffithsphotography) for more tips and inspiration, or visit my website at andygriffithsphotography.com to get in touch through the contact page. I hope you have found this top tips for children at your wedding blog helpful.