Having a destination wedding can be exciting and fun to plan, but it can add an extra layer of consideration if you are allowing guests to bring their wee ones along for the trip. Keeping children entertained at a destination wedding can be both fun and challenging. Here are some ideas to help keep them busy and allow your guests, their parents to enjoy the day as well:
- Designated Kids’ Area: Set up a designated area just for kids with games, toys, coloring books, and other age-appropriate activities. You could include a variety of activities such as crafts, puzzles, board games, and building blocks.
- Outdoor Activities: If the wedding is taking place outdoors, consider organizing outdoor activities like a scavenger hunt, relay races, or a mini sports tournament. Make sure to have a friend or family member supervise these activities to ensure safety.
- Professional Entertainment: Hire entertainers like magicians, face painters, or balloon artists to keep the children engaged and entertained. A clown or a puppet show can also be a hit with younger kids.
- Kids’ Table: Create a special kids’ table at the reception with coloring placemats, crayons, and other activities to keep them occupied during dinner. You can also provide kid-friendly meals and snacks they’ll enjoy.
- Movie Corner: Set up a movie corner with a projector or TV screen showing children’s movies or cartoons. This can be a relaxing option for kids who need a break from the excitement of the wedding festivities. Most resorts can help with such a setup for a nominal fee.
- Interactive Stations: Set up interactive stations such as a DIY cupcake decorating station or a cookie decorating station where kids can unleash their creativity.
- Photo Booth: Kids love taking photos, so set up a photo booth with fun props and costumes where they can take silly pictures to remember the event. Make this a kid’s only space to ensure it doesn’t get overrun with the adults.
- Child-Friendly Favors: Provide children with wedding favors that are age-appropriate and entertaining, such as small toys, puzzles, or coloring books.
- Engage Older Kids as Helpers: If there are older kids attending the wedding, consider giving them responsibilities like handing out programs, guiding younger children during games, or assisting with crafts. A teen table will be a welcome respite for the teens in attendance.
- Keep Them Involved: Depending on their age, involve children in some wedding activities, such as helping with decorating or carrying out small tasks during the ceremony or reception. This can make them feel included and engaged in the festivities.
Remember to consider the ages and interests of the children attending the wedding when planning activities to ensure that there is something for everyone to enjoy.