Planning an outdoor wedding is a magical process, but adding kids to the guest list is where things get interesting. Your kids bring unmatched joy and energy to your big day, but they also call for some extra consideration. The key is to create a kid-friendly atmosphere while preserving your elegant wedding vision. Below, we’ve compiled some outdoor wedding tips for families with kids to help you ensure everyone enjoys the celebration.

Start With a Kid-Friendly Venue

Look for venues that offer open, safe areas for kids to play. Think grassy meadows, gardens without sharp edges, or even beachfront settings. Offering ample room to roam allows kids to be themselves without disrupting the ceremony.

When talking with venues, don’t forget to ask about things like restrooms and shade. If there are no bathrooms, that’s a good reason to have restroom trailers at your wedding. If the venue doesn’t provide enough shade, you can set up portable awnings to keep guests of all ages out of the sun.

Keep Them Entertained

Bored kids can turn even the most well-planned wedding into a chaotic event. To prevent this, think ahead by including activities that younger guests will find engaging. Consider setting up a designated “kid zone” with low-budget entertainment options. Some ideas include coloring or craft stations, outdoor games (think giant Jenga or ring toss), or a movie-watching corner with beanbags.

If your budget allows, hiring a professional nanny or kids’ entertainer can be a worthwhile investment. It allows parents to relax and socialize while the little ones have their own fun.

Ensure Kid-Friendly Dining Options

While your adult guests may savor the gourmet dishes and craft cocktails, kids often find those meals unappealing. Talk to your caterer about adding kid-friendly menu options such as chicken tenders, pizza slices, or mac and cheese. You could even include fun desserts like cupcakes or an ice cream station.

When planning your food layout, also remember to make hydration convenient. Outdoor weddings can get warm, and having accessible water stations equipped with kid-sized cups keeps everyone refreshed.

Weather-Proof Your Plans

Families with kids are especially sensitive to weather conditions. If it’s too hot, babies and toddlers often become irritable. Mitigate this by preparing for various weather scenarios. Offer shade umbrellas, fans, or even cozy blankets if temperatures drop during the evening.

And don’t forget about sunscreen and bug spray! Having them available will help guests feel comfortable throughout the event.

Communicate in Advance

One of the most effective outdoor wedding tips for families with kids is to practice clear communication. Send out detailed invitations or pre-event announcements with specifics about what other parents can expect. Will there be childcare on-site? What kid-friendly meals will be available? Knowing this information beforehand allows families to arrive prepared and reduces day-of questions. You’ll also build a good rapport with your guests.

Planning an outdoor wedding that accommodates families with kids takes a bit more thought, but these small efforts ensure every guest feels welcome.