Couples who want a late night of dancing and adult fun, these wedding planning tips are for you. An adults-only wedding comes with the “normal” wedding planning checklist (like choosing the right wedding venue) PLUS a few do’s, don’ts, and the wording that communicates your wishes.
Adults-Only Wedding Do’s and Don’ts
- Do be polite about the adults-only request.
- Don’t use negative terms like “no kids” or “kids are not welcome.”
- Do feel free to reach out to guests who plan to bring kids.
- Don’t be surprised if guests express displeasure at your decision.
- Do arrange for babysitting (a kids room) in another space if your venue and budget allows.
- Don’t make exceptions for certain guests.
- Do include kids in your wedding party if that is what you want.
- Don’t hesitate to include adult touches in the wedding reception, such as a wine or beer tasting.
- Do put the request for an adults-only wedding on your website (along with this wedding website information).
- Don’t think you have to plan your adults-only wedding alone. Hire a wedding planner to help with planning an unforgettable adult occasion.
- Do let friends and family know about your wishes so they can help spread the word that the reception is adults-only.
- Don’t feel like you have to give a reason for your decision. If you do have a reason (such as a limited amount of space or budget) and want to share it, use the appropriate wording to communicate your decision.
Adults-Only Wedding Wording
- Address invitations only to adults (no “plus family”)
- Include the line for “Number of adults to expect” on the wedding website or invite
- “We would appreciate your presence at our adult reception.”
- “Due to limited space, we are hosting a dinner and reception for adults only.”
- “Our reception is an adult affair. Babysitting for children will be provided in another space at our venue.”
- “We are planning an adults’ night out to celebrate our special day. Please let us know how many adults will be joining us.”
- “Our wedding reception is an adults-only occasion. We are arranging for babysitting in another room. Parents will be responsible for the caretakers’ compensation.”
- “We will be including our youngest family members in our wedding, however we ask that the wedding reception be an adults-only affair.”
- “Our wedding reception plans are for a late night of dancing and fun. Please RSVP with the names of adults that are joining us for the celebration.”
- “We love your children, but we cannot accommodate them at our wedding reception. Please respond with the number of adults that will be joining us.”