Junior Rasmussen
When it comes to weddings, children are often a tricky variable in the guest count. While they may not consume as much food as adults, they still occupy space and may require a chair or a high chair. Some venues and caterers have different rules regarding children, with some offering discounts for kids under a certain age or providing separate rooms for them to eat and play. Ultimately, it is essential to communicate with the venue and caterers to understand how they count children and whether they offer discounted rates or special menus for younger guests.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Whether children count as guests at weddings | Yes, children count as guests at weddings. |
| Whether children count per plate at weddings | It depends on the venue and caterer. Some venues count children as half a guest or offer discounted rates for children. |
| Whether children need to be included in the headcount for food | It depends on the venue and caterer. Some venues include children in the headcount for food, while others do not. |
| Whether children need to be included in the headcount for seating | Yes, children need to be included in the headcount for seating to adhere to capacity restrictions and fire codes. |
| Whether children need to be included in the headcount for payment | It depends on the venue and caterer. Some venues include children in the headcount for payment, while others do not. |
| Whether children need a separate menu | It depends on the venue and caterer. Some venues offer a separate menu for children, while others do not. |
| Whether children need a separate seating area | It depends on the couple's preference and the venue's availability. Some couples choose to have a separate seating area for children, while others prefer to seat them with their respective families. |
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What You'll Learn
Children under 2 may not need their own plate
When it comes to weddings, children are typically considered guests and are included in the headcount for capacity and seating. However, when it comes to meals, the approach can vary. Some venues and caterers may have different policies regarding children's meals, so it is essential to communicate with them directly.
For children under 2, the assumption is that they will either eat from their parents' plates or that their parents will bring food suitable for them. In such cases, it may not be necessary to provide a separate plate for them. This approach is particularly relevant for buffets, where parents can decide what and how much food their young children consume.
Some venues and caterers may offer discounted rates or flexible options for children. For example, they may charge half the price for children under a certain age or provide a separate kids' menu with more affordable options. It is worth discussing these possibilities with your venue and caterer to determine the best approach for your wedding.
If you have a significant number of young children attending your wedding, it may be worth considering a separate room or area for them to eat and play. This can provide a more enjoyable experience for both the children and their parents, allowing the adults to relax and savour their meals.
Ultimately, the decision to include children under 2 in the plate count depends on your preferences and the policies of your venue and caterer. Communicating with them and understanding their guidelines will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your wedding plans.
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Discounted meals for kids
When it comes to weddings, children definitely count as guests, and their meals should be considered in your planning. While some venues don't offer discounted meals for kids, many do, and it's important to check with your venue to see what their policies are. Some venues offer discounted meals for children up to a certain age, typically ranging from 5 to 12 years old, with a few venues offering discounts for those up to 21 years old.
The type of meal you choose for the children attending your wedding is also important. Some caterers offer specific kids' meals, such as chicken fingers, hamburgers, or macaroni and cheese, which are often more appealing to younger children. If you're serving a meal that you think older children might enjoy, such as tacos or seafood, you could give their parents the option to choose between a kids' meal or an adult meal. This is a good idea if you have older children attending, as many tweens won't want to eat "baby food".
If you're having a buffet, you might not need to worry about providing separate kids' meals, as parents may be happy to share their food with their children or bring a snack for them. However, it's still a good idea to check with your caterer, as some will ask you not to include young children in your guest estimate for food.
When it comes to drinks, it's worth noting that anyone under the legal drinking age will be charged at a lower rate, as they won't be consuming alcohol.
Finally, don't forget to consider seating for the children. They will need chairs, and if you're having assigned seats, you may want to think about whether you want a separate area for them to eat and play.
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Children's menus
When creating a children's menu, it is essential to consider the ages and preferences of your young guests. For example, toddlers and early adolescents may have different dietary needs and tastes. Some popular options for children's wedding menus include:
- Chicken fingers or tenders
- Hamburgers or sliders
- Mac 'n' cheese
- Pizza
- Hot dogs
- Sushi (cooked, rather than raw)
- Fries
It is worth noting that some venues offer discounts for children's meals or have specific policies regarding the inclusion of children in headcounts for food. It is always a good idea to check with your venue and caterers to see if they have any recommendations or restrictions.
When planning a kid-friendly wedding, it is also essential to consider other aspects besides the menu. For example, you may want to provide a separate room or area for children to eat, play, and enjoy themselves under the supervision of a babysitter. This can allow parents to relax and enjoy their meal while knowing their children are safe and entertained.
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Separate rooms for kids
Children do count per plate at weddings, but this can vary depending on the venue and caterer. Some venues offer discounted meals for children, while others charge the same rate as adults. It is important to check with the venue and caterer to understand their policies and plan accordingly.
When it comes to seating arrangements, some couples choose to have a separate room for children, especially if there are a significant number of kids attending. This can be a great solution to keep the children entertained and supervised while allowing the parents to enjoy the reception.
Setting up a separate kids' room can be a fun and exciting experience. The room can be equipped with games, craft supplies, toys, and movies to keep the children engaged. It is important to have adequate supervision in the room, and some couples choose to hire babysitters or nannies for the event. This ensures that the children are well-cared for and allows the parents to relax and enjoy the wedding festivities.
The decision to have a separate room for kids can be influenced by various factors, including the age range of the children attending. For instance, younger children below the age of eight may prefer to sit with their parents, while older kids might enjoy the company of their peers at a kids' table or in the separate room. It is essential to consider the preferences and comfort of both the children and their parents when making seating arrangements.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some older kids, particularly those aged 11-12, may resent being grouped with younger children. In such cases, it is advisable to provide alternative entertainment options suitable for their age group. By considering the diverse needs and preferences of the children attending, you can create a fun and inclusive environment for them to enjoy the wedding celebrations.
In conclusion, while children do count per plate at weddings, the specific policies may vary by venue and caterer. The option of a separate room for kids can be a well-received idea, providing a dedicated space for children to have fun under proper supervision. By taking into account the age range and preferences of the children, you can create a memorable and enjoyable experience for both the kids and their parents during your special day.
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Kids as half guests
When it comes to weddings, children do count as guests, but the way they are counted can vary. It is important to check with your venue and caterer, as different places have different rules and pricing structures for kids. Some venues charge full price for children, while others offer discounts or have a separate kids' menu with cheaper options.
For a buffet-style wedding, counting each child as half a guest is a good rule of thumb. They will likely eat less than an adult, and may even share a plate with their parents. This approach can help with cost management, especially when there are many children attending.
However, it is essential to consider the age of the children. Infants and toddlers may not need a separate seat or plate, as they may be happy to sit on a parent's lap and eat from their plate. On the other hand, older children may prefer to sit with the adults and eat a regular meal. In such cases, counting them as a full guest may be more appropriate.
It is worth noting that children still count towards the total headcount for capacity and fire code regulations, regardless of their age. So, even if they are not included in the food count, they may still need to be considered for seating and space requirements.
To summarise, when it comes to kids as half guests at weddings, it's best to count them as half a guest for food estimates, especially for buffets. However, always check with your venue and caterer, as rules vary, and don't forget to include them in the overall headcount for capacity purposes.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the venue and caterer. Some venues offer discounted meals for children, while others charge the same rate as adults. It's important to check with your venue and caterer to understand their policies and plan accordingly.
Yes, there are often exceptions for infants and young children who may not require a separate plate or seat. Typically, children under the age of 2 are assumed to eat from their parents' plates or have their food brought by their parents. However, it's essential to communicate with the venue and caterer to confirm their specific policies.
Children generally count towards the total headcount for seating capacity and fire code regulations. Each child, regardless of age, typically requires a seat or a high chair. It is important to communicate the number of children and their ages to the venue to ensure proper accommodations.
