On-site babysitter

We offered this at our wedding. Almost every parent chose to use it. Just make sure there are dvds, etc. in there and that you have enough babysitters hired for whatever the maximum amount of children in there may be.

Though, FYI, don't assume you're doing your friends a favor so that they can talk with you without their kids distracting them - what may seem like a distraction to you may seem like a joyful family moment to them.

I watched several kids for a wedding before. But it was at the brides grandmas house and they were all related (not to me)

We are planning on doing this - likely with Kiddie Corp., Play Action Parties, or LA Wedding Sitters (people with proper first aid/cpr certification, etc. and insurance)...or the best man's nanny and some of her nanny friends could watch the kids but I'm not really as comfortable with that idea.

We were thinking just during the ceremony & cocktail hour mostly to give parents a break (totally optional) - then the kids would join everyone for dinner/dancing. There is a room that's just off to the side of but basically attached to the reception area, so it'll be super easy for parents to come check on their kids if they want to. I know there will be one two month old baby present and mom won't want to leave him - but you can only do so much.

I counted potentially up to 37 kids under age 11 on my side alone - not everyone will bring their kids, but I know at least some families are planning on combining coming down for my wedding with their annual camping trip, so there will be some.