No-Kids-Allowed Weddings: 3 Steps to Help Engaged Couples Pull Off an Adults-Only Wedding by Tori Ulrich

You want an adults-only wedding, but are you afraid to tell your friends with kids? This can be a tricky, sticky, icky conversation to have, especially when it's family. You don't want kids at your big party (and don't want to pay for $35 chicken fingers), but your friend/bridal party/random cousin has a kid and you know they are going to beg you to let them come. I'm here to tell you that you do not need to say yes.

It could be hard, their feelings may get hurt and they may threaten not to come at all, but you have to remember that this is your day and your rules and once you say yes to one kid, that “yes” news is going to spread and you could end up with an entire kiddapalooza on your dance floor. What do you do?

• First, get that kid-free info out on your save-the-dates and your website so there is no confusion or “Oh, but I didn't know?!” when they walk into the reception with a screaming babe. 

• Next, offer a solution! “Kid-free wedding but we found __ option for you!” Ask your hotel for a recommendation, ask a friend with kids about their sitter(s) or look for a service that will handle the logistics for you. 

• Finally, don't waver (or feel badly) on this once you decide. It may inconvenience/annoy some of your guests, but it's your wedding and your party. Period.

How do you feel about adults-only weddings?

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