Planning a destination wedding with kids and parents in mind can be a blast with a bit of planning. By catering to the diverse needs of toddlers to tweens, you can make it a trip everyone will remember. Check out these five tips to keep kids entertained and parents stress-free at your wedding destination.
Family fun for all ages
Include recommendations for local family-friendly activities on your wedding website, complete with links, costs and transport details. These could include exploring marine life on a glass-bottom boat tour, tasting local produce, shopping for souvenirs at bustling markets or visiting a chocolate factory with tastings at the end.
Highlight the resort’s amenities and services, such as a children’s pool, games room or scheduled activities like crafts, face painting and scavenger hunts. Mention if there’s a movie lounge or on-site babysitters so parents can enjoy pre-wedding events or a romantic night out.
Special moments for the little ones
Instead of choosing a single flower girl or ring bearer, have all the children walk down the aisle together, with older children leading the younger ones. When they reach the altar, they can join their parents to watch the ceremony. You could also have a special dance section for the children after the first dance, where they can enjoy a song from their favourite cartoon.
Child-centred roles
Involve children in the ceremony by having them pass out cones of petals, rice or bird seed to guests. Alternatively, have the older children supervise the younger ones who can sit along the aisles and throw petals or blow bubbles as you walk down the aisle as a couple.
Creative refreshments
Hire a talented mixologist to create a signature mocktail for the kids that non-drinking adults can also enjoy. Make the drink reflect the local culture, such as Mexican limeade, Jamaican coconut pineapple cooler or Panamanian watermelon spritz. Add a touch of fun with cocktail umbrellas or customised stirrers.
Capture the fun
Give children disposable cameras before the reception and encourage them to take snapshots throughout the evening. This activity will keep them entertained and you’ll end up with a unique collection of moments from your wedding day seen through a child’s eyes.
