Children Have Always Been A Part Of Weddings Traditionally, But Here Are 5 Reasons Why You Should Have A Child-Free Wedding
Children have always been a part of weddings traditionally. In fact, even the idea of having a flower girl dates back to ancient Rome– when they would carry wheat and herbs down the aisle to bless the bride and groom with prosperity and fertility.
As Millenials continue to transform many age-old wedding traditions, though, the involvement of kids in their big day has not been exempt.
Instead, many couples are now opting to host completely child-free ceremonies and receptions.
While this move has upset many– ranging from those who value tradition to people who are simply parents– others are actually embracing the new wedding norm for a variety of reasons. Here’s why.
1. Parents Tend To Excuse Bad Behavior
At the age of 5 or even 10, did you know about “wedding etiquette”– much less understand it? Probably not. So, if you have young kids in attendance on your wedding day, the odds are that there might be a meltdown or two.
While children might not really “know better,” though, they are not always the root of the problem. Rather, parents of younger guests may not proactively put a stop to any whining, complaining, running around, or other “bad behavior” on your big day.
Instead, kids’ behavior might actually just be excused because of their young age and lack of wedding experience.
So, if you are not okay with the idea of excuses, it might be best to go child-free. After all, it is often much easier and less stressful than fighting with parents over how to parent their own children.
andrey – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual person
2. Children Can Be Chaotic
On a similar note, children can add to the chaos on an already very busy and admittedly stressful day– aside from “bad behavior.”
Think about it: young kids are virtually unable to cater to their own needs by themselves. Many still need assistance– or at least accompaniment– when going to the bathroom or sitting down for dinner.
And some children may be so young that they cannot even verbalize these needs– resulting in crying and screaming.
Of course, it is not the kids’ fault. But, if you would rather not deal with guests fussing over their children throughout your wedding day, you may want to invite an all-adult party.
3. Weddings Are Not Cheap
In terms of practicality, inviting children to your big day may just not make any fiscal sense, either. According to a study conducted by The Knot, the average cost of a wedding catering plate in 2022 was $75 per person. So, even if you invited a mere five children, your food expenses just grew by $375.
Plus, you also have to take into account the cost of any additional kiddie beverages, party favors, or dessert offerings.
So, while inviting a gaggle of kids may not seem like a big deal, every added guest– no matter how old– can have a big impact on your budget and how much money you have left over to start your life post-wedding.
4. Child-Free = Filter-Free
Explicit playlists and open bars are not exactly kid-friendly. But, with no children in attendance, you can feel free to run your wedding however you like.
Regardless of if you hire a band or DJ, you do not have to stress about the lyrics to your favorite tunes. Plus, if you opt to provide an open bar, you won’t have to worry about kids’ safety while the adults let loose.
Guests, too, won’t have to worry about filtering their dinner table conversation, funny toast stories, or post-wedding shenanigans. It may seem obvious, but without children at your wedding, everyone will be able to party like responsibility-free adults all evening.
5. All Of Your Guests Will Be Present
When traveling to big events– like weddings– with kids, it can be difficult for attendees to really have a good time. First, they may show up stressed after fussing over bathtime, getting dressed, and heading out the door on time.
Then, while at your wedding, parents will usually be preoccupied with watching their kids, feeding them, helping them go to the bathroom, and more.
Plus, depending on the time, some guests with kids may even have to leave your wedding early in anticipation of bedtime or school the following day.
But, if you cut children out of the equation, many of these worries fall by the wayside. Guests can leave their kids in the hands of a trusted adult for the evening, get themselves ready, and not worry about all of the little things that come with being a parent while celebrating your nuptials.
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