An engaged woman took to Reddit to ask for advice after telling her wedding guests that kids wouldn’t be allowed on the big day — and she got a huge response.
On the “r/Wedding” subreddit page, a user posted an inquiry to other social media users asking for advice on the difficult situation surrounding the couple’s marriage.
“We are having a child-free marriage, but when people were told, one couple… said this [was] OK for the ceremony, but they will bring their kids (2 of them) to the reception – without asking [if] It’s okay,” the person wrote.
The user further said, “[They] Told us they would do it. How do I deal with this situation?”
Reddit users took to the comments section to strongly advise the woman to back off and legislate.
“I will respond and say, ‘I’m sorry if you misunderstood,'” one user wrote. The entire event is 18+ (or 21+) or adults only. We understand if this creates any difficulties for you and if you are unable to attend we look forward to celebrating with you later.”
Another user said, “You have to be as rude as them and tell them in clear words that children will not be allowed to enter the wedding or reception.”
Rosalinda Randall, an etiquette expert in California, told Fox News Digital via email that if the “no-children rule” needs to be implemented, it should be fully enforced.
“As far as guests who make demands or request special treatment, you and your fiancé have to decide where you draw the line,” he said, addressing the bride.
Randall suggested the Reddit user try to resolve the situation by sitting down face-to-face with invited guests, if possible, after deciding whether children are allowed at the wedding.
The etiquette expert added, “Are you enforcing this? Or are you paying an allowance for your nieces and nephews, or your best friend’s three-year-old child? If so, you can expect hurt feelings, questions and pithy comments from guests whose children were not involved.”
Florida-based etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore suggested responding to a Reddit user by saying, “We love your kids! But we’ve decided to keep it ‘adults only’ to make things consistent for everyone. We hope you can still join us!”
Alison Kallman, a wedding expert at Zola, told Fox News Digital that “child-free” weddings are becoming increasingly popular today.
Zola data shows that 47% of couples still invite children, while 35% ask their guests to find babysitters for the evening.
“Even if a couple is welcoming children to their wedding, many couples often put stipulations into the event to ensure that the wedding is great for both children and adults,” she said.
For example, Kallman said some couples will have designated play areas for children during the event.
He also said that some couples will set an age limit for children who can attend the wedding.
