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Consider the Bride and Groom: A Case for Leaving Kids at Home
When we receive a wedding invitation, my partner and I find ourselves brimming with excitement. Celebrating the union of dear friends not only fills us with joy but also transports us back to our own wedding day. With weddings evolving into grander affairs than when we first tied the knot, we eagerly prepare to dress up and revel in the company of friends and family. And let’s be honest: weddings are the perfect occasion to show off your best dance moves without fear of judgment.
However, as much as we relish the festivities, there’s one aspect that grinds our gears—the presence of young children at the ceremony and reception. Parents, if you’re attending a wedding, please do the couple a favor and leave your kids at home.
Before you react defensively, let me clarify that my viewpoint doesn’t extend to couples blending families. It’s entirely appropriate for their children to be part of the ceremony as they embark on this new journey together. Witnessing a family unite is truly heartwarming. And yes, I have no issue with a breastfeeding mother; she could have the entire wedding cake if it meant her child is content.
But aside from immediate family members and infants needing care, the spotlight should shine solely on the bride and groom. Nobody wants to see a child commandeering the photographer’s attention or causing distractions during important moments.
I understand that kids can be adorable. A little boy in a tiny tuxedo or a girl in a frilly dress can melt hearts. Yet, these cute kids often manage to divert focus from the event itself. The wedding quickly becomes all about their antics—everyone is enamored with little Johnny on the dance floor or giggling as he smears cake on his face. Sure, it’s entertaining, but it’s not what we came for.
Think back to weddings you’ve attended where a child’s tantrum interrupted the vows or where someone’s kid ran amok just as the bride was walking down the aisle. We’ve all witnessed such disruptions, and they can overshadow the couple’s special day.
During our wedding planning, we envisioned a celebration where adults could let loose and enjoy the evening without distractions. With a long guest list and limited budget, we made the decision to keep it an adults-only affair. I was surprised by how many guests requested to bring their children, often with the assumption that it would be acceptable.
Let me be clear: I’m not interested in paying for a child’s meal only to have them reject it for a PB&J. The notion that venues can offer discounted children’s meals is unrealistic; fancy mac and cheese will likely go untouched while the child runs wild on the dance floor. It’s a hard pass for us.
Parents, it’s perfectly acceptable to take a break from your kids and focus on celebrating the couple’s journey into marital bliss. Plus, wouldn’t you enjoy the event more without having to escort a toddler to the restroom every 15 minutes or preventing them from charging the dance floor during the father-daughter dance?
Let’s be honest: Weddings are not designed for children, even with a coloring station. And while you may believe your child is exceptionally well-behaved, the reality often proves otherwise. Just wait until your little one starts melting down mid-reception due to exhaustion or overstimulation—what then?
In conclusion, I urge you to consider hiring a sitter when attending a wedding. I understand that childcare can be costly, but that’s not the bride or groom’s concern. Keeping young children at home allows everyone to enjoy the festivities more fully.
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Summary:
Weddings are special occasions meant to celebrate the couple, and the presence of young children can often distract from that focus. While it’s understandable to want to include kids, it’s advisable for parents to leave them at home, allowing the ceremony and reception to be a true celebration of love without interruptions.