We’ve had plenty of experience in welcoming wedding parties of all sizes, and ages, to Launcells Barton, so here are our tips on how to have a brilliant day where the kids can play and enjoy it with you.
Involve them in the ceremony
People love to be involved and children are no different, so if you tell them they have a very important task, whether it’s to be a flower girl or a ring bearer during the ceremony, it’s likely they will not only treasure the responsibility, but also be on their best behavior when all eyes are on them!
They’ll also make for some very cute photos you can cherish and pull out at family get-togethers for many years to come, much to their dismay!
Check if you can have a child’s menu
It’s a good idea to ask your caterers if they’re able to offer any child specific options. Younger family members will understandably have different tastes, so if you are opting for a sit down meal try to provide the parents with a couple of options to choose from. If you’re having a buffet, make sure there are a good mix of dishes, with some suitable for children which aren’t too rich or spicy.
Also consider those times outside of the set meal and canapes – are you going to provide kids with snacks to ensure they don’t get too low on energy, whilst of course not plying them with too much sugar? Some caterers will provide little lunch packs for the kids to have during the welcome drinks so they don’t get too hungry, meaning the adult can eat without worrying about them during the meal.
Be mindful when drawing up your seating plan
Seating plans take careful consideration and can be tricky to get right, so if you’re bringing the kids you’re likely to have a few extra things to think about. Depending on their age, you could let them have their own table; this can reduce boredom and increase the fun they have – you just need to make sure they’re of an age to be trusted with this responsibility. If the children are younger and need to be with their parents make sure you check with the venue that they will be able to provide highchairs and it won’t feel cramped.
Make it fun!
Keeping the kids entertained throughout the day can sometimes be a tricky task, especially when toddlers can easily start to get hungry, bored or sleepy. In the past we have had people set up little tipis with cushions and colouring books for the children, making it into their own little den!
If you’re holding your wedding during the warmer months, lawn games have become very popular and are fun for young and old, as well as being quick and easy to set up. There are also a huge range of wedding games and entertainment you could explore; we can point you in the direction of some of the best we’ve worked with previously. Before now we have had couples hire bouncy castles and even crazy golf –which always goes down well!
Make your DJ aware
It’s sensible to let your DJ know there will be children bopping about during the evening. He may remove some songs from his playlist which wouldn’t be suitable and will hopefully add in a few crowd pleasers which children will love getting up and dancing to!
Work together with your venue
Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, work together with your venue. Their aim is to make your day special and stress-free, and if you let them know there’ll be children attending in advance, it could be that they have a few tricks and ideas up their sleeve to make it as enjoyable for everyone, no matter what their age.
If you’re looking at wedding venues in Cornwall and would like to discuss your big day with us, give us a call on 01288 352352 or email hello@launcellsbarton.co.uk.
