Kids at Weddings: The Tiny Guests of Chaos and Cuteness

Here at Arcadia Academy, our weddings come with all kinds of guests: the sentimental ones who cry during vows, the ones who sneak to the bar a little too early, and the pint-sized crowd that comes armed with sticky fingers, juice boxes, and opinions about cake flavors. Yep, we’re talking about children at weddings.

Let’s be honest, every couple faces that age-old decision: “Should we invite kids to our wedding?” It’s right up there with “Do we splurge on the open bar or risk the cash bar revolt?” and “Do we let Uncle Bob give a speech?”

The Case for Inviting Kids

At Arcadia Academy, we’ve seen some of the most heartwarming moments come from children being part of the celebration. There’s something about a flower girl determined to walk the entire aisle with one petal at a time, or a ring bearer sprinting halfway through and yelling “TA-DA!” that just melts your heart. Kids bring joy, laughter, and occasionally...chaos...but in the best way.

Plus, our Southeast Missouri wedding venue is built for family. We have open courtyards, a huge gymnasium, plenty of outdoor space, and even a 100 year old swing set. Parents can still enjoy themselves without worrying their toddler will turn the dance floor into a wrestling ring (although, we’ve seen that too).

The Case Against (Or at Least, the Case for Containment)

Now, if you’re reading this thinking, “Absolutely not. No toddlers near my white linens,” we get that too. Kids and weddings can be a wild combo. There’s always at least one who decides to test the acoustics of the chapel mid-vows, and another who finds the dessert table a little too early.

If you love kids but don’t necessarily want them front-row for your first dance, consider hiring a sitter or setting up a “kids corner.” We’ve seen couples set up small tables with coloring books, popcorn, and a movie playing nearby. It keeps them entertained and gives parents a break. Win-win.

The Arcadia Way

Whether you’re a “kids welcome” couple or a “let’s keep it adults-only” duo, Arcadia Academy Weddings can help you make it work. We’ve hosted it all—family-style weddings with strollers parked next to pews, and elegant black-tie receptions where bedtime stories were replaced with champagne toasts.

Our venue has room to spread out, and our on-site catering team, Thee Abbey Kitchen, can handle everything from chicken tenders for the kiddos to filet mignon for the grown-ups. (We’ve even seen a six-year-old request a mocktail at the bar named after the dog, Ollie Driver.)

A Note for Guests Bringing Children

If you’re attending a wedding here in Arcadia, Missouri, and you’re bringing your little ones, just remember: weddings are magical, but they’re also long. Bring snacks, quiet toys, and an exit plan in case your child decides the ceremony is the perfect time to demonstrate their dinosaur roar.

The truth is, kids at weddings can be hilarious, unpredictable, and unforgettable. They might spill a drink, steal the spotlight, or accidentally photobomb the first kiss—but they’ll also be part of the laughter that makes the day real.

So whether you’re planning a family-friendly wedding near St. Louis or a romantic, adults-only celebration, our team at Arcadia Academy Weddings will help you create a day that’s perfectly you. Cuteness, chaos, or calm—whatever you choose, we’ve got the experience, the space, and the snacks to make it work.