While it might seem like an offensive thing to say on an invitation, a “no-kids at the wedding” policy is often appreciated, as it gives family or friends with small children an excuse to get a sitter and enjoy a night out as a couple.
"We would love to celebrate with you but unfortunately, we can't make it work." "I've given it a lot of thought, and unfortunately, we won't be able to attend." "Thanks so much for the invitation. Unfortunately, due to family/work/financial commitments, I won't be able to make it."
“Your presence at our wedding is enough of a gift, but should you wish to buy us something, we'd greatly appreciate a contribution towards our dream honeymoon/house deposit/renovation.” “Please do not feel obliged to buy us a gift, all that we are expecting is you.
This might be something like 'We have everything we need and your attendance is the cherry on top! Please no gifts,'" she says. Whitmore adds that you could also say something like, "Your presence is our present" or "The gift of your company is the only gift needed."
Here's some specific adults-only wording you can use: We love your children, but due to space restrictions we cannot accommodate guests under age 18 [or 21, or another age] on our wedding day.
No need to be rude, just direct and with a bit of sweetness to acknowledge their interest in you. “Oh thanks for asking, that sounds great. But sorry, I can't.” Or, “I'm so glad to see you. I'm in the middle of something, so I can't let you in right now.
"While you should never feel obligated to attend a wedding you don't want to be a part of, think carefully if the reason you are using will hold up years later when you look back on it," Gottsman says. Once you decide to decline, you should ideally share the news in person, not through the mail.
“I don't want babies and small children disrupting my wedding. What do I do?” A: There's nothing wrong with wanting an adults-only wedding. It's a truly personal choice and your guests should respect your decision.
It's fine to give an explanation, but it's best to keep it short! On your wedding invitations: Please note that this invitation is extended to adults only. On your wedding invitations: In order to allow parents a well-deserved evening off, we have chosen for our wedding day to be an adult-only occasion.
Sample wedding invitation wording for no extra guests
Due to limited seating arrangements, invitations are limited to specified guests only. We appreciate your support and appreciation of our union. We are only able to accomodate guests named on the invitations. Thank you for celebrating with us.
You're keeping it simple: We are very sorry, but we are keeping our special day as an adult-only occasion. We will not be able to invite children to our wedding, we hope that you will still be able to attend.
An example FAQ may look like this:
Unfortunately, due to budget and space limitations, we simply can't afford for all of our lovely guests to bring a guest of their own. Therefore, we regretfully our guests to please not bring a plus one, unless they are specifically named on the invitation.
You can include your Dress Code on the lower left or right-hand corner of the invitation. Alternatively, the Dress Code can be placed at the bottom centre of the design.
The first thing you'll want to do is personally inform your family members what the game plan is. Tell them you want family kids only, and that all others should be informed up front that it's an adults-only wedding outside of family members.
Cash gifts are always welcome but never required. All that we ask is that you're here with us! Thank you so much for always being there for us. Your presence is the greatest gift, but we're also saving for our first home so any contributions are hugely appreciated.
a gift of money in a card would really make our day! We would prefer your presence rather than your presents! As we are so lucky to have a home together, we have decided not to request wedding gifts.