Should You Bring Your Uninvited Children Along to a Wedding?

The purpose of wedding invitations is to offer an invitation to guests to share in a couple's joy as they are united in marriage. But some guests try to read between the lines and see an extra invitation where one does not exist. For example, some invited guests do not see the names of their children on the wedding invitation. Is it good form to bring your children along to a wedding if they have not been specifically invited by the bride and groom?

Asking for an Invitation for Uninvited Children Can Cause Embarrassment

It is safe to assume that if the names of each of your children have not been included in the wedding invitation, that they have not been invited, simple as that. Assuming that the bride and groom have accidentally forgotten to include the names of your children reflects poor judgement on your part and can lead to an embarrassing exchange as you call to RSVP and ask for an invitation for your children.

Put Yourself in the Bride and Groom's Shoes

It is easy to become offended if you discover that your children have not been invited to attend a wedding along with you and your spouse. However, in a situation such as this, it is best to put yourself in the bride and groom's shoes and to accept their decision. Remember, that the wedding day is not about you or your children; it is about the bride and groom and they have every right to decide who will and who will not attend their wedding.

Uninvited Children Should Not Attend a Wedding

Wedding etiquette dictates that if the names of guests have not been included in a wedding invitation, it is safe to assume that they have not been invited to attend. Rather than try to work out the reasons why your children have not been invited, concentrate on finding a babysitter for the occasion and having a good time at the wedding.

Guests who have been invited to attend should graciously RSVP as soon as possible. If their children have not been included in the wedding invitation, parents should refrain from bringing them along. Some couples omit the names of children as they do not have the available funds on hand to invite everyone they know, while others prefer to have a child-free wedding, without having to worry about keeping a close eye on rambunctious children running around during the reception or taking centre stage, when that honour belongs exclusively to the bride and groom.