Onsite Child Care?

Thank you, Shannon. That was my intention, not keeping the kids out of the celebration. But I appreciate all the feedback from everyone; it made me realize that this could be taken the wrong way if I'm not careful to communicate these details to my guests.

@Karen kind of both. But mostly because once we decided to limit the children to family only, we personally know all the kids that would possibly be coming, and trust their parents' judgement that if they make the choice to bring them they will be responsible for making sure they're behaving, and if they want a child free evening we trust that they will be able to make their own arrangements and that it won't affect their ability to come. We were considering this more when we were expecting to allow more children to come. But if people start asking us and we see a need we are willing to revisit the idea

I don't have kids but if I did I would not be leaving my child with a stranger.

I agree that most parents would not be comfortable leaving their child with a stranger. I don't even have children yet and I know that would be a "hell no" from me. I would say save your money. It was a kind thought but not one that would likely be worth the cost. If you want to allow the children then just be prepared for that and hope that the parents are able to control their behavior.

We are having a kids table, as we expect 25-30 children ages 3 months to 16. We are going to provide a separate kids table, with coloring books, Ispy games, board games and we are hiring a couple of high school students to over see the kids activities. As for the children under 5 the parents will be responsible if they have issues during the ceremony. Everyone we have talked to loves this idea.

We did this for the ceremony. We had a "kids free" wedding and one of H's cousins couldn't find someone, until later in the evening, to watch her toddler. One of my junior bridesmaids friends came and watched him in the other room until the sitter could pick him up. H's cousin was happy and it worked out for everyone.

As a parent, I think this is a really thoughtful idea, especially for those who might be traveling to attend your wedding. My own kiddos were the flower girl and ring bearer at an out of town wedding, and I couldn't find and vet a babysitter in another state to cover the reception, so we had to leave early. I couldn't leave my kids at home with family, since they were in the wedding party (and I'm not in a position to hire a traveling nanny.) Had there been someone on-site to hang with the kids nearby, this would've been a fantastic option for us. Your guests with kids will certainly be grateful to have that choice, even if they don't take you up on the offer.