Destination weddings offer an enticing blend of adventure and romance, but when children are part of the picture, there are additional factors and other considerations to ensure everyone enjoys the celebration.

Kids at a Destination Wedding: Here’s Everything You Need to Consider

So, do you invite children to a wedding abroad? It’s a question that often arises, and the answer ultimately depends on the couple’s preferences and the dynamics of their guest list.

Do You Invite Children to a Wedding Abroad?

Deciding whether to invite children to a wedding abroad can be a delicate balance. On one hand, having children present can add a lively and heartwarming atmosphere to the festivities and allows guests with children to come and bring their kids if they wish or need to.

On the other hand, some couples may prefer a more adult-oriented celebration which allows all guests who are present to have a relaxed time, allows the drinks to flow and everyone to let their hair down.

If you have kids of your own then you may wish to allow other kids to come too, friends you wish to invite may have kids too so if you allow children then then it may make it easier for them to come if they cannot arrange child care.

Read our Guide – Should I invite kids to my wedding? 

How Do You Plan a Wedding for Kids?

For couples who decide to include children in their destination wedding, thoughtful planning is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Knowing children and the age range that shall be attending allows you to plan in advance and ensure they are also catered for.

Let the guests know: First step is to let your guests know on the invite, kids are welcome, or if you wish you may just allow babies, make sure this is clear on your wedding invites.

Plan in Advance: Communication is crucial when it comes to accommodating children at a wedding abroad. Provide families with plenty of notice so they can make necessary arrangements, such as travel arrangements, accommodations, and childcare options.

Engage Them in the Wedding: Incorporating children into various roles within the wedding ceremony can make them feel special and valued. Depending on their age, children can serve as flower girls, ring-bearers, junior bridesmaids, junior ushers/groomsmen, or take on other responsibilities like carrying candles, prayer books, or handing out flowers and confetti.

Kids Corner: Creating a designated “kids corner” at the wedding venue can provide young guests with a space to play and unwind during the celebration. Stock the area with age-appropriate games, toys, and activities to keep them entertained. Clip boards with colouring sheets attached are a great way to keep kids entertained be it the ceremony of reception that they can carry round with them.

Engage Them at the Reception: Encourage children to participate in the reception festivities by incorporating kid-friendly elements such as a separate buffet with familiar foods, a dance floor where they can show off their moves.

Family-Friendly Destinations: When choosing a location for your destination wedding, consider the needs and preferences of families with children. Opt for venues that offer amenities and activities suitable for guests of all ages, such as beach resorts with supervised kids’ clubs or hotels with spacious grounds for outdoor play.

Travel is an important consideration, guests with children or babies may find it hard to do a 6 hour flight and then 2 hours to the venue, so factor this in when looking at venues and deciding your destination.

What to Expect If You Choose Not to Have Children at Your Wedding

On the flip side, some couples may opt for a child-free wedding abroad. While this choice may simplify logistics and create a more adult-focused atmosphere, it’s essential to communicate this decision clearly and respectfully to guests with children. Some guests who have children who do not have a child care option, or perhaps they are at school may not be able to attend even if they wished too.

FAQ: Kids at a Wedding Abroad

Q: Should we invite children to our destination wedding? A: The decision to invite children to your destination wedding ultimately depends on your preferences and the dynamics of your guest list. Consider factors such as the atmosphere you want to create, the ages of your guests’ children, and logistical considerations when making this choice.

Q: How do we accommodate children at our destination wedding? A: To accommodate children at your destination wedding, consider incorporating them into the ceremony as flower girls, ring-bearers, or junior bridesmaids/groomsmen. Create a designated “kids corner” at the reception with age-appropriate activities, and choose family-friendly venues and destinations with amenities suitable for guests of all ages.

Q: What if we decide not to have children at our wedding abroad? A: If you choose to have a child-free wedding abroad, communicate your decision clearly and respectfully to guests with children. Provide alternative childcare options or suggest family-friendly activities in the area so that parents can still participate in the festivities.

Q: How can we make our destination wedding enjoyable for families with children? A: To make your destination wedding enjoyable for families with children, choose a family-friendly venue with amenities such as supervised kids’ clubs or outdoor play areas. Provide information about local attractions and activities suitable for children, and consider incorporating kid-friendly elements into the reception festivities.

Q: What if some guests with children can’t attend our destination wedding? A: If some guests with children are unable to attend your destination wedding, express understanding and offer to celebrate with them in other ways, such as sending a special gift or hosting a separate celebration closer to home. Keep them informed about your wedding plans and share photos and updates to include them in the joyous occasion.

Kids or No kids?

Whether you choose to invite children to your destination wedding or opt for a child-free celebration, thoughtful planning and open communication are key to ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for all involved. By considering the needs and preferences of your young guests, you can create a wedding abroad that is both magical and inclusive for guests of all ages.