Kids or No Kids…That is the question!

Ah, weddings – that magical time when two hearts join as one, and you get to choose whether your "I do" comes with a side of tiny humans dressed in bows and suspenders. If your dream wedding includes a diaper-changing station next to the chocolate fountain or you prefer that your first dance isn’t upstaged by a break-dancing five-year-old, here’s the lowdown on managing the presence of the under-ten set.

Why You Might RSVP 'Yes' to the Knee-High Crew

Let’s mull over the adorable chaos these tots bring to the table:

Pros:

• Kodak Moments: Because nothing says “timeless” like a three-year-old devouring cake with their hands.

• Family Vibes: Who needs a quiet ceremony when you can have the authentic sounds of family life (i.e., wailing toddlers)?

• Circle of Life Feels: Your wedding can be a Disney movie come to life, complete with children and animals (squirrels not included).

Cons:

• The Crying Game: Kids have a sixth sense for the worst times to throw a tantrum. Vows, speeches, that poignant moment of silence – you name it.

• PG-13: Remember, that story about how you two met? Maybe save it for a crowd that’s actually allowed to watch PG-13 movies.

• Parental Advisory: Forget about your friends catching the bouquet; they’ll be too busy chasing their runaway offspring.

How to Host the Tots Without Losing Your Cool

You’ve decided to be brave and let the kids join the party. Here's how to keep your sanity intact:

1. Spell It Out: Make sure your invites are clearer than a child’s conscience. Specify who’s in and who’s not.

2. Age Gate: Set an age limit and stick to it – this isn’t a playground, it’s a wedding.

3. Distraction Central: Set up a side-show attraction. Because nothing says "classy" like a bounce house next to the wedding arch.

4. Menu for Minis: Chicken nuggets and fries? Five-star dining for anyone under four feet tall.

5. Safety Dance: Child-proof your venue unless you want your big day to feature cameo appearances by the paramedics.

6. Exit Stage Left: Have a nap room or a getaway car ready for when the carriage turns back into a pumpkin.

7. Silence is Golden: Have a secret signal with your childcare squad for when it’s time to herd the little ones away from the action.

8. Kiddie Swag Bags: Keep them quiet with toys and treats – it’s like a bribe, but wedding-appropriate.

Embracing the Silence: The Adult-Only Extravaganza

If you’re all for a wedding that doesn't resemble a daycare on a sugar rush, here's how to keep it adults-only without causing a family feud:

1. Honesty Policy: Be as straightforward as a toddler when they tell you they don't like your haircut.

2. Babysitter Bulletin: Offer a list of local babysitters—it’s like offering a life vest to someone who thought they were going to drown in kiddie pool chaos.

3. Sensitive Souls: Some folks might get offended, but hey, it's your wedding, not a community potluck.

4. Fair Play: Apply the no-kids rule like sunscreen – evenly, without exception.

5. Gratitude is Great: Thank them for not bringing little Johnny. After all, you’re saving them from an evening of playing peekaboo instead of catching up over champagne.

So, there you have it—whether you opt for a full-blown family fest or an adults-only affair, the choice is yours. Just remember, kids at weddings are like glitter: They’re fun for a second, but you’ll be finding remnants of them everywhere for years to come. Choose wisely! As your photographer I’ll grab the cutest photos of the little crumb snatchers if they’re there, or the best photos of all the adult only fun, it’s all the same for me! So hit me up to have me photograph your day, kids or no kiddos!