At Millhouse, we know how important it is for your big day to be enjoyable for guests of all ages. With thoughtful touches and age-appropriate accommodations, your wedding can be both elegant and family-friendly.
Planning a wedding involves a lot of moving pieces—from the guest list to the menu and everything in between. One question many couples face is whether to include children in their celebration. For some, the answer is a clear "yes," and with the right planning, a kid-friendly wedding can be joyful, relaxed, and memorable for everyone.
Why Include Children in Your Wedding?
Children can add a special kind of magic to a wedding day. From flower girls and ring bearers to adorable dance floor moments, their presence often brings joy and spontaneity. For guests with kids, an invitation that welcomes the whole family also shows thoughtfulness and consideration.
Creating a kid-friendly environment doesn’t mean sacrificing sophistication—it just means being intentional about your choices.
1. Create a Kid-Friendly Space
If your venue has the room, consider setting up a designated kid zone. This can be a quiet area stocked with games, coloring books, puzzles, and other quiet-time activities. For younger kids, bean bags, a soft mat, and storybooks can create a cozy corner where parents can soothe or entertain restless little ones.
At Millhouse, our flexible indoor and outdoor spaces can easily accommodate a kids' corner or separate activity area that keeps little guests happy while adults enjoy the festivities.
2. Offer Kid-Friendly Entertainment
Children love to be entertained, and keeping them busy is one of the best ways to ensure a smooth, stress-free celebration. Depending on your guest list and budget, consider options like:
- A kids’ entertainer (magician, balloon artist, or storyteller)
- Lawn games (giant Jenga, cornhole, bubbles)
- A movie corner with pillows and a projector
- Supervised crafts or DIY party favors
- A “mini dance floor” with glow sticks or kid-friendly music
Having dedicated entertainment gives parents peace of mind and kids something fun to look forward to.
3. Customize a Kid-Friendly Menu
Not every child will enjoy the formal wedding fare. Offering a separate kids’ menu is a simple way to keep little ones satisfied. Think beyond chicken nuggets (though those are always a hit) and consider including:
- Mini sliders or mac & cheese cups
- Fruit skewers or veggie sticks with dip
- Mini pizzas or quesadillas
- Juice boxes or milk in spill-proof cups
- A kid-friendly dessert like cookies or pudding cups
At Millhouse, our catering partners are happy to work with you to create custom menus that cater to all ages and dietary needs.
4. Choose the Right Timing
Weddings that start late in the day and stretch into the evening can be tough on young children. If you're planning a family-inclusive wedding, consider starting earlier in the afternoon. This gives kids time to enjoy the celebration without missing naps or going too far past bedtime.
Shorter ceremonies and more relaxed reception timelines can also help maintain everyone's good spirits—especially the smallest guests.
5. Add Thoughtful Touches for Parents
Parents will be grateful for a few extra considerations that make attending your wedding easier. Some thoughtful ideas include:
- A quiet nursing or changing room
- Highchairs available during the meal
- Stroller parking or designated seating
- Kid-friendly signage for activities
- Babysitting service or recommended sitter list
At Millhouse, we aim to support families with every detail, including accessible restrooms and flexible seating arrangements to meet your guests’ unique needs.
6. Involve Kids in the Ceremony (If You Want To)
If you have nieces, nephews, or your own children, including them in the ceremony can be a meaningful touch. Beyond the classic flower girl or ring bearer roles, kids can:
- Pass out programs
- Hand out bubbles or confetti
- Walk down the aisle with signs
- Join in on a family unity ceremony
Let their personalities shine in age-appropriate roles that make them feel special and involved.
7. Keep the Schedule Flexible
Children don’t always do well with long periods of sitting still or being quiet. Be mindful of their attention spans by keeping speeches short and avoiding long delays between events like the ceremony and dinner.
You can also allow kids to eat earlier, so they’re not hungry and fidgety during toasts or first dances.
8. Capture the Cuteness
Some of your favorite wedding photos might be of your littlest guests enjoying the day. Encourage your photographer to capture candid moments—kids playing games, dancing, laughing, or eating cupcakes.
Having children at your wedding adds spontaneity and joy to your photo album, not just your memories.
Millhouse: The Perfect Venue for Family-Friendly Weddings
At Millhouse, we understand the value of a celebration that welcomes everyone. Our versatile venue spaces, accommodating staff, and customizable amenities make it easy to host a wedding that balances elegance and fun for all ages. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a large celebration, we help you think through every detail—including how to make little guests feel at home.
Your wedding should reflect your values, your people, and your love story—and if that includes kids, we’re here to make it magical for everyone.
