What to Do With Kids at Your Houston Area Wedding: Tips for a Fun, Fuss-Free Day
Photos by Heather Purvis Photography
After two years of hosting unforgettable weddings at Brandt 1910, our historic venue near Sealy and Rosenberg, we've seen how thoughtful planning creates lasting memories for guests of all ages
The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to including kids at weddings. Some couples envision their special day filled with the laughter of little ones, while others prefer an adults-only celebration. Whatever you choose, we're here to help you navigate this important decision with grace and style.
Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration near Austin or Fort Bend County, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about including children in your wedding festivities, or creating a beautiful child-free event.
Should You Invite Kids? Weighing the Pros and Cons
When couples tour Brandt 1910, one of the outdoor wedding venues Fulshear TX couples love most, they often ask about accommodating children. The decision ultimately depends on your vision, budget, and family dynamics.
The Benefits of Including Children
Children bring an undeniable energy and joy to wedding celebrations. Their genuine reactions during your ceremony—wide-eyed wonder during the first kiss, enthusiastic applause, and spontaneous dancing—often create some of the most cherished memories and photographs.
From a practical standpoint, inviting children often means higher attendance rates from family members who might otherwise decline due to childcare concerns. This is especially important for destination weddings or when you're choosing from the best places to get married near Katy Texas, where out-of-town guests might struggle with childcare arrangements.
Potential Challenges to Consider
Children can be unpredictable, and their needs don't always align with wedding timelines. Ceremony interruptions, earlier reception departures, and additional catering considerations are all factors to weigh. Some couples worry about maintaining the sophisticated atmosphere they've envisioned for their celebration.
Budget considerations also come into play. Additional meals, entertainment, and potentially childcare services can impact your overall wedding investment.
Creating Kid-Friendly Spaces at Your Venue
At Brandt 1910, our unique indoor and outdoor layout provides natural opportunities for creating distinct spaces that cater to different age groups. Our historic building, originally constructed in 1910 as F.D. Brandt's general store, offers a charming indoor reception space, while our outdoor areas provide perfect spots for children's activities after the ceremony.
Designated Play Areas
Consider setting up a quiet corner or outdoor space where children can retreat when they need a break from the festivities. Our venue's garden area works beautifully for this purpose, allowing kids to burn energy while staying within sight of their parents.
Lounge Spaces for Families
Creating comfortable seating areas where parents can supervise their children while still participating in your celebration helps everyone feel included. Our venue's flexible layout allows couples to designate specific areas for families with young children.
Entertainment Ideas That Delight Young Wedding Guests
Keeping children engaged throughout your celebration requires thoughtful planning. Here are some strategies that work wonderfully at outdoor wedding venues Fulshear TX couples have embraced:
Activity Stations and Crafts
Coloring books featuring your wedding theme, small craft activities, or even a dedicated kids' table with age-appropriate entertainment can work wonders. We've seen couples create custom activity packets that tie into their wedding colors and theme.
Outdoor Games and Activities
Lawn games like giant Jenga, cornhole, or bubble stations take advantage of our beautiful outdoor space while keeping children entertained. These activities often become crowd-pleasers for adults too, creating intergenerational fun.
Professional Entertainment Services
Fort Bend County offers several excellent vendors who specialize in children's entertainment. Local providers offer services ranging from balloon artists to mobile playhouses that can transform part of your venue into a wonderland for young guests.
Professional babysitting services are another option many couples explore. These trained caregivers can supervise activities, help with meals, and ensure parents can fully enjoy your celebration while knowing their children are well cared for.
Food and Beverage Considerations for Young Guests at Your Wedding
Creating a menu that appeals to both adult palates and young taste buds requires careful consideration. Most catering partners can accommodate special children's menus featuring familiar favorites like chicken tenders, mac and cheese, or mini hamburgers.
Creative Drink Options
Mocktails designed especially for children add a special touch that makes them feel included in toasts and celebrations. Consider signature kid-friendly drinks that complement your wedding colors. Shirley Temples with cotton candy are always a big hit at Brandt 1910 in Wallis, Texas.
Treat Bags and Special Touches
Small gift bags or treats can serve as entertainment and keepsakes. Many couples include items like bubbles, small toys, or sweets that tie into their wedding theme. For better or for worse, whenever my son goes to a party, he always expects a goody bag, and weddings are no exception (I know, I’m working on it)!
Communication is Key: What to Tell Parents Ahead of Your Wedding Day
Clear communication with parents before your wedding day ensures everyone knows what to expect and can plan accordingly.
Setting Expectations
Let parents know about your timeline, any special activities planned for children, and what amenities will be available. This helps them pack appropriately and manage their children's expectations.
Pro Top: Make sure your venue has changing tables in both the men’s and the women’s restrooms, and there is a space for nursing mothers. Brandt 1910 does and the look of relief on a parent’s face when I tell them is priceless!
Seating Arrangements
Thoughtful seating can make a significant difference. Placing families with young children near exits or designated family areas gives parents flexibility while keeping disruptions minimal.
Including Children in Your Wedding Party
When couples choose unique wedding ideas near Katy and Fulshear, including children in the actual ceremony often creates touching moments that guests remember for years.
Young flower girls and ring bearers, junior bridesmaids, or special roles like "bubble blowers" during your exit can add charm to your celebration. At Brandt 1910, our indoor and outdoor spaces provide beautiful backdrops for these special roles.
When You Choose a Child-Free Celebration
Some couples prefer an adults-only wedding, and that's completely valid. The key is communicating this decision with love and understanding.
Communicating with Sensitivity
When choosing this route, be clear and consistent in your communication. Phrases like "We've chosen to celebrate with an adults-only reception" help set expectations without causing offense.
Supporting Out-of-Town Guests
For couples planning weddings at affordable wedding venues near Houston suburbs, helping guests with childcare solutions shows thoughtfulness. Providing information about local babysitting services or kid-friendly accommodations nearby demonstrates consideration for your guests' needs.
Several hotels near Katy and Fulshear offer family-friendly amenities and can often connect guests with trusted childcare providers. You should also ask your wedding coordinator or venue manager for recommendations.
Local Resources near Fort Bend County
Wedding vendors in Fort Bend County understand the unique needs of families attending celebrations. From childcare providers to entertainment specialists, local professionals can help create seamless experiences for families.
Many engaged couples in Fulshear find that working with local vendors who understand the area creates more personalized and successful celebrations.
Your Perfect Day Awaits
At Brandt 1910, we've learned that the most successful weddings, whether they include children or not, are those where couples make decisions that align with their values and vision. Our flexible indoor and outdoor spaces accommodate whatever celebration style speaks to your heart.
The historic charm of our venue, combined with modern amenities and thoughtful planning, creates the perfect setting for your unique love story. Whether you envision children's laughter echoing through our gardens or an elegant adults-only evening in our restored historic building, we're here to help bring your dreams to life.
Every couple's journey is unique, and your wedding should reflect your individual story and priorities. We invite you to visit Brandt 1910 and discover how our venue can provide the perfect backdrop for your celebration, whatever form it takes.
Contact Us for a Tour of Brandt 1910 and begin planning the local wedding of your dreams.
(979) 217-1772
info@brandt1910.com
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our photo gallery, pricing details, or testimonials from happy couples who’ve walked down the aisle at Brandt 1910. #Brandt1910, #Brandt_1910