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What to do with the kids??
How to handle the under-13 set at your wedding
One
of the most potentially awkward wedding decisions some couples face is
whether to invite children. Some couples worry that the kids will be bored.
Others fear that they'll be too disruptive. If you want to include children
at your event, consider these guidelines on how to accommodate your lively
little guests.
If
you're inviting a wee one to walk down the aisle, be sure he or she really
wants to.
Children younger than five are likely to be confused by the attention and
may end up forfeiting their role at the last minute. If your niece indicates
that she's uncomfortable being your flower girl, believe her—don't tell
yourself that when the time comes, she'll be excited to do it.
Asking a ten-year-old to be your ring bearer could end up insulting him.
Kids between the ages of 10 and 13 have graduated to the role of junior
groomsmen and bridesmaids. These attendants don't have the responsibilities
of a bridesmaid or groomsman, but they'll still feel important when they
walk down the aisle. If that approach doesn't appeal to you, ask them to
take on other key roles, such as handing out the programs at the cer emony
or passing around the guest book at the reception.
Kids
and preteens will be more likely to hit the dance floor if they hear songs
they know.
So ask the DJ to play a few popular—if overplayed—hits from the radio or
MTV, such as "Walk Away" by Kelly Clarkson. (P.S.: Go right to the source
for playlist suggestions.)
Save
the fancy food for the adults and give the kids something familiar to sink
their teeth into.
Ask your caterer if he can create a children's menu. Name dishes after
kids' favorite characters (Harry Potter's Hot Dog Platter) or even after
your little guests themselves (Maya's Mini Pizzas).
If
there are enough young ones attending, designate a corner of the reception
as the kids' area.
Hire a sitter to watch over the spot, and make it fun by decorating it with
youthful touches. Top tables with crayon centerpieces and give out coloring
books as favors. For really tiny tots, have bibs embroidered with wording
like Kelly & Dan's Wedding or My First Wedding.
Be
careful who you seat where.
If your nine-year-old nephew is mature enough to sit with the grown-ups, let
him. There is no bigger bummer for a child at a wedding than being stuck at
the kids' table against his will. At the same time, very young children
(five and under) may be more comfortable sitting with their parents than
with other kids.
If
you'd like kids to attend the ceremony but not the reception, consider
arranging for a sitter.
This is by no means necessary, but it's a thoughtful gesture your guests are
sure to appreciate. Maybe your sister has a responsible friend who isn't
attending the wedding but would be willing to watch a small group of
children. If that's the case, let parents know that they've got the option.
If
it turns out that you do have to nix some kids, be consistent.
You can draw the line however you choose (one safe rule: immediate family
and first cousins only). No matter which guidelines you set, it helps to
personally call those parents whose children won't be invited, and to do it
as soon as you can. Your honesty should be well-received, as long as you're
fair and you give enough advance notice.
** Article courtesy of Modern Bride Magazine

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When To Book Your DJ -
Its never to early to book your DJ! The most popular dates
book up very quickly.
If your event is in
May, June, September, October, December:
book 8-12 months ahead
April, July, August, November:
book 8-6 months ahead
January, February, March:
book 4-6 months ahead

Remember to have

FUN!!!!! |