Kids at the wedding
If children are invited, make it easy for families: a kids’ table near their parents, a simple meal they’ll eat, activity packs, and a quiet room with a sitter for later in the evening. If they aren’t, say so clearly and kindly, and consider sharing a list of local sitters for traveling guests.
More ideas and wording in kids at weddings.
Flower girls and ring bearers
Choose children who are old enough to enjoy it — usually around 3–8 — and have a plan B if they freeze. Seat a parent on the aisle, give them a practice at the rehearsal, and give the ring bearer a pillow with replica rings. See flower girls and ring bearers.
Blending families
If either of you has children, the wedding is a family wedding. Include them in ways that fit their age and feelings: helping choose details, a special outfit, a role in the ceremony, or their own vows. Keep co-parents informed and give children a trusted adult who isn’t you on the day.
Read how to include children in your wedding.
Children at the wedding: a quick decision guide
| If you… | Consider |
|---|---|
| Have children of your own | Roles, family vows and a trusted adult for each child |
| Want a relaxed evening party | Adults-only, with sitter suggestions for traveling parents |
| Have many young relatives | Immediate family only, applied evenly |
| Expect lots of families | A kids’ table, activities and an early dessert |
Starting a family
In Zola’s 2026 survey, 52% of couples said wedding costs were pushing back other life goals — and 29% of those were delaying starting a family. Timing is personal: careers, money, health, housing and how you both feel all matter. Talk about it before the wedding if you can, and again after.
See starting a family after marriage for a conversation guide, and planning a wedding while pregnant if you’re expecting now.
