Little Ones on the Big Day

      Since we are all kids at heart, this should be a fun one. Having kids in or at your ceremony can be a blast, both for you and for them. Don’t even get me started on the hype that they bring to your reception, it’s better than any DJ that you could hire. While this may seem like a daunting part of the day I promise that, if done right, kids can easily be one of the best parts and bring so much fun and joy to your wedding.
    As someone who is always thinking about every little detail, it’s important that I think of how to make the day great for everyone. Depending on the age range and how many kids will be in attendance, here are a few cute and super fun ideas :)
During the Ceremony…
    If you decide to have kids in the ceremony, there are a lot of different and special ways to do this.
1.  As a ring bearer
    I mean c’mon…

Click here to order this sign!

Click here to order this sign!

2.  As a flower girl
      Pretty self explanatory and always a show stopper.

Photo by Thomas Beaman Photography

3.  As a junior bridesmaid or groomsmen
     This is a great option for kids who are a little older and/or have a very special connection to the wedding. The junior bridesmaid or groomsman can also be a part of other wedding festivities like a bachelor or bachelorette outing depending on the wholesomeness of your wedding festivities (or lack thereof ;)
4. Include them in a first look
    One of my favorite and unique touches in any wedding is including the little ones in a first look with the bride or groom. The reactions are priceless.

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Image by Martha Stewarts Weddings

5. Have them do a reading or performance at the wedding
    Whether they are reading a poem, a bible verse, an old love note or singing a song, adding this touch at any wedding will make for a very sentimental memory.

John Bosley Photography

Image via Wedding Chicks

6.  In the photos
    Kids are often the most photogenic, so don’t be upset when they steal the spotlight for a bit, but I guarantee you’ll love the results.

Image via Crazy for Us

Image via Mum's the Word

7.  The Reception
    At this point in the day, they kids may be a little tired or, on the contrary, ready to party! You should include options for both types of children. The wedding Desiree planned in Lake Arrowhead for Matt and Meghan had it all covered.
Check out this blog here!Personalized coloring pages, small snacks and photo booths are a sure way to keep the kiddos entertained.

Check out our Welcome Bag Blog Post here!

This is one of my favorites! A photograph scavenger hunt on disposable cameras. A great way to get candid photos, put the kids to work and capture some great memories. Image via Gift Spaces

Other ideas for entertainment include;
- Board games
- Inflatables
- Hiring entertainers like face painters, magicians and more!

Finger food is a must and such an easy way to elevate the look of a kid’s palette! The adults will be envious.

Any DIY food concept is a guaranteed way to keep the kids occupied with a smile on their faces! Image via Jen Loves Kev

Another important part here… FOOD. If kids are in attendance for the meal portion of the reception it can be smart to check for reduced cost kids’ meals. Some kids may be picky or not eat as much as an adult portion.  So if your looking to save a little mula and please the kiddos, this is a great question to ask your venue or caterer. 

Purchase this sign here!

Don’t want the party to stop, but have a few kids still around? A “No adults allowed zone” or a “Kids only” area/table is a great way to put aside some space for the kids for toys, activities and for a few pillows just in case they get a little sleepy.

Smiles,
Kelly Bean