October 1, 2025 • 16 mins
** Have you made the 'Kids or No Kids' decision yet? **
→ → Our latest podcast edition covers how to plan for either scenario, including our experiences, compromises, and clear communication strategies.
→ → This podcast is for engaged couples who are stressed out with wedding planning and family expectations, but want a fun wedding day.
→ → By the end of this edition, you’ll discover unique options, solutions, and how to communicate your choices with finesse.
Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast #167: Kids or No Kids? Charting a course for a Child-Free Wedding
Host: Sal & Sam
Music: "Sam's Tune" by Rick Anthony
TIMESTAMP
00:00 Introduction to Kids or No Kids? Charting a course for a Child-Free Wedding
01:00 Podcast Overview and Goals
03:00 The Big Debate: Kids or No Kids?
05:00 Your Vision
06:30 Logistics of Planning a Kid-Friendly Wedding
07:30 Babysitters
09:15 Wedding Tip Wednesday: wedding vendor team
11:00 Navigating a Kid-Free Wedding
12:45 Kid-free Wedding Wording
14:45 Compromises and Creative Solutions
15:30 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement
16:00 Closing Remarks and Farewell
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Copyright © 2025 Atmosphere Productions LLC All Rights Reserved.
Produced by Atmosphere Productions in association with After Hours Events of New England
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:01):
today's hot topic kids orno kids at your wedding.
This one stirs up a lot of opinions.
Some good, some bad.
Some couples want all the littlecousins twirling on the dance floor,
catching bubbles in their formal wearwhile others are dreaming of a grown-up
celebration where no-one's calling undertables or screaming during the vows.
(00:24):
That's right.
This question has sparked morefamily group chat drama than
seating charts ever could.
Whether you are planning a full onfamily friendly affair or leaning
toward a kid-free zone with signaturecocktails and a late night dance party,
we are here to help you sort it all out.
Welcome to another edition of our podcast.
(00:45):
Hi, I'm Sal from AfterHours Events of New England.
Listen now and discover kids or no kids,charting a course of a child-free wedding.
These are the wedding Insider secretsfor a Stress-free, fun and memorable day.
Our podcast helps engage couplesnavigate wedding planning complexities
while addressing family expectations.
(01:06):
We'll guide you through the journeyof creating the perfect wedding
day without unnecessary stress.
By the end of this edition, you'llget concise tips on budgeting,
wedding party management, ceremony,reception planning, and more.
Perfect for anyone planning awedding all in 30 minutes or less.
Trust us, you're notgonna wanna miss this.
(01:27):
Welcome to Stress-free WeddingPlanning, the podcast that will
transform your wedding planning journeyfrom chaotic to enchanting, Sal and
Sam bring over 80 years of combinedwedding expertise and exclusive
insider information to the table.
If you're recently engaged, feelingthe pressure of wedding planning.
Struggling with family expectations, butstill dreaming of a joy-filled wedding.
You've come to the right place.
(01:48):
Get ready to unveil thebest-kept wedding secrets.
Discover practical tips andstrategies and learn life-changing
lessons for a stress-free wedding.
Your unforgettable wedding day awaits.
We're here to take you on a transformativejourney of love, laughter, and memories,
so don't miss out on the podcast.
That just might change your life.
This is the Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
(02:11):
Thank you for listening,and because of you.
We are now ranked at number 15in the Top 60 Wedding Planning
podcast by Million Podcasts.com.
On today's podcast, we're talkingabout kids or no kids charting a
course for a child-free wedding.
Hi, I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
(02:32):
Wedding Entertainment with expertknowledge and the difference in
quality, specializing in live ceremonymusicians and cocktail hour string
musicians plus lighting, and anelegant and classy presentation.
We have exactly what you need.
Visit us at Atmospherehyphen Productions dot com.
That's atmosphere hyphenproductions dot com.
(02:53):
Learn more about our experienceand the journey to help you with
stress-free wedding planning in thetrailer or pilot of this podcast.
Having a kid-free weddingisn't always an easy decision.
You're juggling traditions, expectations,family dynamics, and let's face
it, that thing called the budget.
We've seen it all, and we're going to walkyou through how to approach this topic
(03:17):
with confidence, kindness, and clarity.
Because at the end of the day, it is yourwedding, and we want to make sure whatever
choice you make, you can communicate itwith grace and avoid unnecessary drama.
And most importantly, still have thecelebration you've been dreaming of.
Hi, I'm Sal from AfterHours Events of New England.
(03:39):
The experts in creating a stress-freeunforgettable wedding experience.
We bring energy, professionalism,and a passion to making every
couple's big day truly special.
Visit us at After Hours EventsOf N.E. dot com.. Again, that's
After Hours Events Of N.E dot com.
But first, I have to say congratulationsto our listeners, Danny and Steven, who'll
(04:03):
be getting married next August at theAqua Turf in Plantsville, Connecticut.
Again, congratulations, Danny andSteven, and thanks for listening to the
Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast.
So let's start with why it's such abig deal, kids or no kids at a wedding.
Weddings are aboutbringing people together.
(04:24):
And many families of course include kids.
Of course, they're adorable in tuxedos.
And with those flower crowns,they add energy and joy.
But at the same time, kids also cry,around wild, spill drinks on rented
linens, mess with photographer'sequipment, play with DJ's equipment, and
(04:47):
they tend to take over the dance floor.
And that's why it becomesa matter of vision.
That may not be your vision.
Are you going for a relaxed backyardor picnic vibe then maybe yes.
Or if you're going for an elegant blacktie evening wedding, when you spend a ton
of money, that may not be what you want.
(05:08):
Plus, some venues aren't safeor even suitable for children.
Think about, cliffside oran oceanfront ceremony.
Open fire pits or chic spaceswith lots of fragile decor.
That can upturn your vision ofwhat you want for your wedding.
So let me have you imagine this.
(05:28):
You're having your first dance,that big romantic moment where you
hired a professional photographerand videographer, and here they are,
they're recording that special moment,and then kids run right onto the dance
floor in the middle of things, maybeeven running right at you, and kind of
interrupting that very special moment.
(05:49):
Now, one of the problems with having kidsat a wedding is, parents tend to forget.
They need to take careof their own children.
They automatically think, "Hey, thevillage will take care of them. I
don't have to worry about a thing."Unfortunately, that happens often.
So this is something that you may wantto consider if you want kids or no kids.
(06:10):
If it's gonna ruin your vision, youmay not want to have them there.
Just as a reminder, uson our YouTube channel.
Just search for the Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
Like, comment, subscribe,and get it first.
Now if you're going all in witha kid-friendly wedding, awesome.
Let's talk about how tomake that work smoothly.
(06:33):
Start with logistics.
You'll want to plan.
You have to plan, everyone.
So plan for these thingssuch as kids meals.
Think chicken fingers or mac and cheese.
High chairs and booster seatsfor the younger children.
A kid-friendly space withactivities, coloring books,
puzzles, even a movie corner.
And a big must, planned for a nap time.
(06:57):
This will help you not havethose meltdowns or early exits.
Give 'em a chance to rest, rejuvenate,and be on their best behavior.
You might also want to hire ababysitter or two for the night.
I recently did a wedding where the client hired my daughter to be a babysitter
(07:17):
for four or five kids that were there.
That's great, but not everybody can do it.
If you can hire the babysitter,it gives parents a break and
offer kids a safe space to unwind.
We've even seen couples set up an entireroom with bean bags, tablets, snacks.
This is really a game-changer.
This is planning ahead.
(07:38):
Younger kids tend to fizzleout by eight or nine o'clock.
So plan your significant momentslike speeches and first dances
a bit earlier if you want themto be part of the experience.
Don't forget to communicatewith parents ahead of time.
Of course, if they don't know you're gonnaprovide a babysitter or a separate room.
(07:59):
They're not gonna do anythingabout it, so let them know.
Obviously, if you've got your,cousins and your brothers and sisters,
let them know what the plan is andwhat's available for their kids.
Trust me, the more prepared everyoneis, the smoother things go for
the kids and for the parents.
We've just explained why the subjectof kids or no kids is such a big
(08:23):
deal and what you need to do if youchoose to have a kid-friendly wedding.
Coming up next what you need to keepin mind if you decide on a kid-free
wedding, and we'll also explaincompromises and creative solutions.
But first, if you have a questionor concern, go now to Facebook
and join us on the Stress-FreeWedding Planning Community.
(08:44):
And now in the ConnecticutWedding Advice Community.
You can also join uson our YouTube channel.
Just search for the Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam like.
Comment, subscribe and get it first.
This is thee Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
A podcast for engaged couples concernedabout wedding planning and family
(09:04):
expectations, but who want a stress-free,fun and unforgettable wedding.
Here's another Wedding Tip Wednesday.
But first, if your wife says "she'llbe ready in five minutes", she's using
the same timescale as you when you say"the game only has five minutes left."
On today's Wedding Tip Wednesdaycreate a wedding vendor team.
(09:25):
So for a stress-free and fun wedding,we suggest you find vendors that
know each other and have workedtogether before at your venue.
Once booked, send each of them anemail to let them know who they're
working with on your special day.
Include phone numbers andemails so that they can contact
(09:45):
each other before your event.
And that's another weddingtip from Sal and Sam.
Wedding Tip Wednesday is availableon the Stress-free Wedding Planning
Facebook group page every Wednesday.
Join the group for free.
Experience the magic of your specialday with Fitzner Productions, a
premier wedding videography companybased in Middletown, Connecticut.
Fitzner Productions dot com Ourmission is to capture your love story
(10:08):
candidly and authentically creatingstunning high quality videos that
you can cherish for years to come.
Our founder, Carson Fitznercombines technical expertise
with a passion of storytelling.
Ensuring every moment from the excitementof getting ready to the heartfelt
ceremony is beautifully documented.
We offer a range of customizable packages,including drone footage and multi-location
(10:30):
shoots tailored to fit your unique vision.
Let us help you relive the romance,laughter, and tears of your wedding day.
Visit Fitzner Productions dot com.
That's F-I-T-Z-N-E-R Productions dot com.
This is the Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
Welcome back to our discussion aboutthe decision to have kids or no kids?
(10:52):
I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
I am Sal from After HoursEvents of New England.
We've already discussed why the subjectof kids or no kids is such a big
deal and what you need to do if youchoose to have a kid-friendly wedding.
Now it's time to go inthe other direction.
What do you do if you decideto have a child-free wedding?
(11:14):
All right, let's go there.
Look, first rule, you need to be clear.
Be kind.
And most of all be consistent.
And we mean you need to be clear in everyplatform possible from save the date
to your website to your invitations.
You don't wanna assume people will get it.
(11:35):
You kind of have to say it a few timesbefore people actually understand.
So now, how can you wordthis in a way that, you know,
they're not gonna take it wrong.
And you can use graceful thingslike "We kindly request an adult
only celebration." That's very clear.
It's adults only.
There's no kids that are gonna be there,or "As much as we love your little
(11:56):
ones, this will be a grown-up affair."
That's another way of saying this is gonnabe adults only and no children at all.
You could also add some humor, butit has to fit your personality.
You can't force this.
Okay?
So if this is your personality, go for it.
"We love your kids, but we thoughtyou may want a night off, too."
(12:18):
Excellent wording suggestions there, Sal.
I also suggest you go to Google andGoogle "kid-free wedding wording".
And there's loads of suggestionsthere that might be able to help you.
But no matter what you do,don't make exceptions unless
it's absolutely necessary.
(12:38):
For instance, you can set exceptions likeif you're having a ring bearer or a flower
girl, and even then set limits on that.
Allowing one cousin to have a kidand then saying no to another, is a
guaranteed way to start a family feud.
And yes, yeah, you will get some pushback,but be ready and respond with empathy.
(13:01):
Here's something you can say, "We totallyunderstand, if that means you can't
make it, but we'd really hope you canjoin us." You see what you did there.
You turned it back onthem to make the choice.
You just need to stand andbe polite in your decision.
And if someone really needs to bringtheir child, be it for travel or health
(13:21):
reasons, you can handle that privatelywithout opening the door for everyone.
Now let's talk about compromisesand creative solutions.
For those of you on the fenceor trying to please both sides,
there are some compromise options.
Like inviting kids to the ceremony,but not the reception or hosting a
(13:45):
kid's table with childcare providednearby during dinner and dancing.
Or, Sal, setting an age limit,only kids 10 and up or invited.
That eliminates babies and toddlers,but it also includes older kids
who can hang out by themselves.
It's a choice that you have tomake, by setting that age limit.
(14:06):
You can also have a destinationwedding act as a built in filter.
So if you were planning on having adestination wedding anyway, most parents
can't or just won't bring their kids toa tropical resort or across the country.
So the guest list stays adults onlywithout you having to say anything.
(14:27):
At the end of the day, your guests arethere to support you and celebrate your
love, and the ones who matter the mostwill respect your wishes, kids or no kids.
So here are some finalthoughts about kids or no kids.
Whether you go full kid-friendly oradults only, the key is being intentional.
(14:49):
Make a decision based on what feelsright for you, not what others expect.
Communicate it clearly.
Be consistent and standby it with confidence.
Stay calm, plan on, and remember,it's your day, your way!
Now as you spend the next week planningyour wedding, if you want me, Sal, or
(15:10):
our community of stress-free engagedcouples and wedding experts to answer any
wedding-related questions, then join us inthe Stress-free Wedding Planning Facebook
group.
Once you're in, go ahead and shareyour concerns and worries, and
we'll let you know if you are onthe right track or if there are.
Things you need to work on.
The link to join us is in theshow notes of this edition, or
(15:31):
go to Facebook and search for theStress-Free Wedding Planning community.
Remember to do something nice forsomeone today, and if you can't,
then do something nice for yourself.
If you've enjoyed what you've justheard, leave a review and share it
with a friend or someone who wouldbenefit from this information.
Until next time, it's.
TTFN,
Tah Tah For Now!
Thank you for listening to this edition.
(15:51):
A new edition is released every Wednesday.
Subscribe and get it first.
We'll catch you then.
Ciao!
The Stress-free Wedding PlanningPodcast is produced and copyrighted by
Atmosphere Productions in associationwith After Hours Events of New England.
today's hot topic kids orno kids at your wedding.
This one stirs up a lot of opinions.
Some good, some bad.
Some couples want all the littlecousins twirling on the dance floor,
catching bubbles in their formal wearwhile others are dreaming of a grown-up
celebration where no-one's calling undertables or screaming during the vows.
(00:24):
That's right.
This question has sparked morefamily group chat drama than
seating charts ever could.
Whether you are planning a full onfamily friendly affair or leaning
toward a kid-free zone with signaturecocktails and a late night dance party,
we are here to help you sort it all out.
Welcome to another edition of our podcast.
(00:45):
Hi, I'm Sal from AfterHours Events of New England.
Listen now and discover kids or no kids,charting a course of a child-free wedding.
These are the wedding Insider secretsfor a Stress-free, fun and memorable day.
Our podcast helps engage couplesnavigate wedding planning complexities
while addressing family expectations.
(01:06):
We'll guide you through the journeyof creating the perfect wedding
day without unnecessary stress.
By the end of this edition, you'llget concise tips on budgeting,
wedding party management, ceremony,reception planning, and more.
Perfect for anyone planning awedding all in 30 minutes or less.
Trust us, you're notgonna wanna miss this.
(01:27):
Welcome to Stress-free WeddingPlanning, the podcast that will
transform your wedding planning journeyfrom chaotic to enchanting, Sal and
Sam bring over 80 years of combinedwedding expertise and exclusive
insider information to the table.
If you're recently engaged, feelingthe pressure of wedding planning.
Struggling with family expectations, butstill dreaming of a joy-filled wedding.
You've come to the right place.
(01:48):
Get ready to unveil thebest-kept wedding secrets.
Discover practical tips andstrategies and learn life-changing
lessons for a stress-free wedding.
Your unforgettable wedding day awaits.
We're here to take you on a transformativejourney of love, laughter, and memories,
so don't miss out on the podcast.
That just might change your life.
This is the Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
(02:11):
Thank you for listening,and because of you.
We are now ranked at number 15in the Top 60 Wedding Planning
podcast by Million Podcasts.com.
On today's podcast, we're talkingabout kids or no kids charting a
course for a child-free wedding.
Hi, I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
(02:32):
Wedding Entertainment with expertknowledge and the difference in
quality, specializing in live ceremonymusicians and cocktail hour string
musicians plus lighting, and anelegant and classy presentation.
We have exactly what you need.
Visit us at Atmospherehyphen Productions dot com.
That's atmosphere hyphenproductions dot com.
(02:53):
Learn more about our experienceand the journey to help you with
stress-free wedding planning in thetrailer or pilot of this podcast.
Having a kid-free weddingisn't always an easy decision.
You're juggling traditions, expectations,family dynamics, and let's face
it, that thing called the budget.
We've seen it all, and we're going to walkyou through how to approach this topic
(03:17):
with confidence, kindness, and clarity.
Because at the end of the day, it is yourwedding, and we want to make sure whatever
choice you make, you can communicate itwith grace and avoid unnecessary drama.
And most importantly, still have thecelebration you've been dreaming of.
Hi, I'm Sal from AfterHours Events of New England.
(03:39):
The experts in creating a stress-freeunforgettable wedding experience.
We bring energy, professionalism,and a passion to making every
couple's big day truly special.
Visit us at After Hours EventsOf N.E. dot com.. Again, that's
After Hours Events Of N.E dot com.
But first, I have to say congratulationsto our listeners, Danny and Steven, who'll
(04:03):
be getting married next August at theAqua Turf in Plantsville, Connecticut.
Again, congratulations, Danny andSteven, and thanks for listening to the
Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast.
So let's start with why it's such abig deal, kids or no kids at a wedding.
Weddings are aboutbringing people together.
(04:24):
And many families of course include kids.
Of course, they're adorable in tuxedos.
And with those flower crowns,they add energy and joy.
But at the same time, kids also cry,around wild, spill drinks on rented
linens, mess with photographer'sequipment, play with DJ's equipment, and
(04:47):
they tend to take over the dance floor.
And that's why it becomesa matter of vision.
That may not be your vision.
Are you going for a relaxed backyardor picnic vibe then maybe yes.
Or if you're going for an elegant blacktie evening wedding, when you spend a ton
of money, that may not be what you want.
(05:08):
Plus, some venues aren't safeor even suitable for children.
Think about, cliffside oran oceanfront ceremony.
Open fire pits or chic spaceswith lots of fragile decor.
That can upturn your vision ofwhat you want for your wedding.
So let me have you imagine this.
(05:28):
You're having your first dance,that big romantic moment where you
hired a professional photographerand videographer, and here they are,
they're recording that special moment,and then kids run right onto the dance
floor in the middle of things, maybeeven running right at you, and kind of
interrupting that very special moment.
(05:49):
Now, one of the problems with having kidsat a wedding is, parents tend to forget.
They need to take careof their own children.
They automatically think, "Hey, thevillage will take care of them. I
don't have to worry about a thing."Unfortunately, that happens often.
So this is something that you may wantto consider if you want kids or no kids.
(06:10):
If it's gonna ruin your vision, youmay not want to have them there.
Just as a reminder, uson our YouTube channel.
Just search for the Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
Like, comment, subscribe,and get it first.
Now if you're going all in witha kid-friendly wedding, awesome.
Let's talk about how tomake that work smoothly.
(06:33):
Start with logistics.
You'll want to plan.
You have to plan, everyone.
So plan for these thingssuch as kids meals.
Think chicken fingers or mac and cheese.
High chairs and booster seatsfor the younger children.
A kid-friendly space withactivities, coloring books,
puzzles, even a movie corner.
And a big must, planned for a nap time.
(06:57):
This will help you not havethose meltdowns or early exits.
Give 'em a chance to rest, rejuvenate,and be on their best behavior.
You might also want to hire ababysitter or two for the night.
I recently did a wedding where the client hired my daughter to be a babysitter
(07:17):
for four or five kids that were there.
That's great, but not everybody can do it.
If you can hire the babysitter,it gives parents a break and
offer kids a safe space to unwind.
We've even seen couples set up an entireroom with bean bags, tablets, snacks.
This is really a game-changer.
This is planning ahead.
(07:38):
Younger kids tend to fizzleout by eight or nine o'clock.
So plan your significant momentslike speeches and first dances
a bit earlier if you want themto be part of the experience.
Don't forget to communicatewith parents ahead of time.
Of course, if they don't know you're gonnaprovide a babysitter or a separate room.
(07:59):
They're not gonna do anythingabout it, so let them know.
Obviously, if you've got your,cousins and your brothers and sisters,
let them know what the plan is andwhat's available for their kids.
Trust me, the more prepared everyoneis, the smoother things go for
the kids and for the parents.
We've just explained why the subjectof kids or no kids is such a big
(08:23):
deal and what you need to do if youchoose to have a kid-friendly wedding.
Coming up next what you need to keepin mind if you decide on a kid-free
wedding, and we'll also explaincompromises and creative solutions.
But first, if you have a questionor concern, go now to Facebook
and join us on the Stress-FreeWedding Planning Community.
(08:44):
And now in the ConnecticutWedding Advice Community.
You can also join uson our YouTube channel.
Just search for the Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam like.
Comment, subscribe and get it first.
This is thee Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
A podcast for engaged couples concernedabout wedding planning and family
(09:04):
expectations, but who want a stress-free,fun and unforgettable wedding.
Here's another Wedding Tip Wednesday.
But first, if your wife says "she'llbe ready in five minutes", she's using
the same timescale as you when you say"the game only has five minutes left."
On today's Wedding Tip Wednesdaycreate a wedding vendor team.
(09:25):
So for a stress-free and fun wedding,we suggest you find vendors that
know each other and have workedtogether before at your venue.
Once booked, send each of them anemail to let them know who they're
working with on your special day.
Include phone numbers andemails so that they can contact
(09:45):
each other before your event.
And that's another weddingtip from Sal and Sam.
Wedding Tip Wednesday is availableon the Stress-free Wedding Planning
Facebook group page every Wednesday.
Join the group for free.
Experience the magic of your specialday with Fitzner Productions, a
premier wedding videography companybased in Middletown, Connecticut.
Fitzner Productions dot com Ourmission is to capture your love story
(10:08):
candidly and authentically creatingstunning high quality videos that
you can cherish for years to come.
Our founder, Carson Fitznercombines technical expertise
with a passion of storytelling.
Ensuring every moment from the excitementof getting ready to the heartfelt
ceremony is beautifully documented.
We offer a range of customizable packages,including drone footage and multi-location
(10:30):
shoots tailored to fit your unique vision.
Let us help you relive the romance,laughter, and tears of your wedding day.
Visit Fitzner Productions dot com.
That's F-I-T-Z-N-E-R Productions dot com.
This is the Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
Welcome back to our discussion aboutthe decision to have kids or no kids?
(10:52):
I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
I am Sal from After HoursEvents of New England.
We've already discussed why the subjectof kids or no kids is such a big
deal and what you need to do if youchoose to have a kid-friendly wedding.
Now it's time to go inthe other direction.
What do you do if you decideto have a child-free wedding?
(11:14):
All right, let's go there.
Look, first rule, you need to be clear.
Be kind.
And most of all be consistent.
And we mean you need to be clear in everyplatform possible from save the date
to your website to your invitations.
You don't wanna assume people will get it.
(11:35):
You kind of have to say it a few timesbefore people actually understand.
So now, how can you wordthis in a way that, you know,
they're not gonna take it wrong.
And you can use graceful thingslike "We kindly request an adult
only celebration." That's very clear.
It's adults only.
There's no kids that are gonna be there,or "As much as we love your little
(11:56):
ones, this will be a grown-up affair."
That's another way of saying this is gonnabe adults only and no children at all.
You could also add some humor, butit has to fit your personality.
You can't force this.
Okay?
So if this is your personality, go for it.
"We love your kids, but we thoughtyou may want a night off, too."
(12:18):
Excellent wording suggestions there, Sal.
I also suggest you go to Google andGoogle "kid-free wedding wording".
And there's loads of suggestionsthere that might be able to help you.
But no matter what you do,don't make exceptions unless
it's absolutely necessary.
(12:38):
For instance, you can set exceptions likeif you're having a ring bearer or a flower
girl, and even then set limits on that.
Allowing one cousin to have a kidand then saying no to another, is a
guaranteed way to start a family feud.
And yes, yeah, you will get some pushback,but be ready and respond with empathy.
(13:01):
Here's something you can say, "We totallyunderstand, if that means you can't
make it, but we'd really hope you canjoin us." You see what you did there.
You turned it back onthem to make the choice.
You just need to stand andbe polite in your decision.
And if someone really needs to bringtheir child, be it for travel or health
(13:21):
reasons, you can handle that privatelywithout opening the door for everyone.
Now let's talk about compromisesand creative solutions.
For those of you on the fenceor trying to please both sides,
there are some compromise options.
Like inviting kids to the ceremony,but not the reception or hosting a
(13:45):
kid's table with childcare providednearby during dinner and dancing.
Or, Sal, setting an age limit,only kids 10 and up or invited.
That eliminates babies and toddlers,but it also includes older kids
who can hang out by themselves.
It's a choice that you have tomake, by setting that age limit.
(14:06):
You can also have a destinationwedding act as a built in filter.
So if you were planning on having adestination wedding anyway, most parents
can't or just won't bring their kids toa tropical resort or across the country.
So the guest list stays adults onlywithout you having to say anything.
(14:27):
At the end of the day, your guests arethere to support you and celebrate your
love, and the ones who matter the mostwill respect your wishes, kids or no kids.
So here are some finalthoughts about kids or no kids.
Whether you go full kid-friendly oradults only, the key is being intentional.
(14:49):
Make a decision based on what feelsright for you, not what others expect.
Communicate it clearly.
Be consistent and standby it with confidence.
Stay calm, plan on, and remember,it's your day, your way!
Now as you spend the next week planningyour wedding, if you want me, Sal, or
(15:10):
our community of stress-free engagedcouples and wedding experts to answer any
wedding-related questions, then join us inthe Stress-free Wedding Planning Facebook
group.
Once you're in, go ahead and shareyour concerns and worries, and
we'll let you know if you are onthe right track or if there are.
Things you need to work on.
The link to join us is in theshow notes of this edition, or
(15:31):
go to Facebook and search for theStress-Free Wedding Planning community.
Remember to do something nice forsomeone today, and if you can't,
then do something nice for yourself.
If you've enjoyed what you've justheard, leave a review and share it
with a friend or someone who wouldbenefit from this information.
Until next time, it's.
TTFN,
Tah Tah For Now!
Thank you for listening to this edition.
(15:51):
A new edition is released every Wednesday.
Subscribe and get it first.
We'll catch you then.
Ciao!
The Stress-free Wedding PlanningPodcast is produced and copyrighted by
Atmosphere Productions in associationwith After Hours Events of New England.
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