She Strengthens

The Great Wedding Debate: To Invite Kids or Not?

As we dive into the peak of wedding season, a contentious issue comes to the forefront: should children be invited to weddings? The answer, much like the perfect wedding playlist, is subjective.

A Question of Etiquette

One camp argues that excluding kids from the guest list is impolite, citing the added expense of babysitters, gifts, and travel as an undue burden on guests. Others contend that it’s the couple’s special day, and they should have the final say in who attends. After all, no one is forcing guests with children to RSVP.

Personal Experience

I must confess that I’m not a fan of rowdy kids at weddings. The noise, the chaos, and the cupcake heists can be overwhelming. Yet, I had plenty of well-behaved kids at my own wedding, and they brought immense joy to the celebration. The key is understanding that children’s behavior can be unpredictable, and they do impact the budget. In tight financial situations, it’s easier to cut costs on a 2-year-old who won’t remember the event than on a distant relative who might hold a grudge.

The Argument for Adult-Only Weddings

There are valid reasons why couples might opt for an adult-only celebration. For instance, some couples graciously cover the cost of babysitters for their guests, but this shouldn’t be expected. Defining “kids” can also be tricky – where do you draw the line? Furthermore, it’s impossible to please everyone when planning a wedding; someone will always be offended. Lastly, not everyone enjoys the company of children, and that’s okay.

Respecting Boundaries

Ultimately, it’s the couple’s decision whether to invite kids or not. Just as they wouldn’t serve meat at a vegetarian wedding or hire a DJ if they dislike dancing, they shouldn’t feel obligated to include children if they’re not comfortable with it. It’s not about being rude or inconsiderate; it’s about creating a celebration that reflects their personalities and preferences.

Final Thoughts

As couples embark on the journey of wedding planning, they deserve to have it their way. So, would you rather have a few guests grumble about your no-kids policy or spend the entire night stressing about tantrums and tiara-toting toddlers? The choice is clear.