As the years go by, humanity goes on. People date, break up, get married, and have children. It’s always exciting when people get married. When your dear friends and family get married, you’re expected and excited to join the festivities. However, you might have a child of your own and finding a sitter isn’t always easy. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you take your baby to a wedding.
Image Credits Victor Ramirez, CC BY ND 2.0
First make sure your child is allowed. Some formal events like weddings are not baby-friendly. Check the invitation to see if it says “Adults Only” on it. Wedding etiquette often dictates that the people listed on the invitation are the only ones allowed, and this includes your own baby. It may not be ideal for you, but it happens. Show consideration for your friend and check in advance if it’s all right to bring your own offspring. If not, do what you can to find a babysitter. If you can’t, politely RSVP your answer, and then spend some time with your loved one at another time so they’ll be more understanding that you couldn’t come to the wedding because of the babysitting problem.
Evaluate what kind of wedding it is. Sometimes weddings can be quiet, calm, and easy to breeze through. This is a better and more ideal environment for your baby. However, sometimes weddings are loud, full of alcohol, and somehow there’s a strobe light that hasn’t burned out yet. You know your loved one best and what kind of parties they’re into. Ask them what is going on at their wedding, and if babies are allowed, see if this is an environment you can bring your child to without disturbing your baby.
Pack your bag with the bare necessities. You’re probably old hat at this: packing the bag with multiple diapers, a cloth or towel for cleanups, extra clothes, and extra food. Diaper costs aren’t too bad, so bring extras. Make sure your baby is extra cute to garner the sympathy you’ll need in case of outbursts. Try to bring some extra cleaning agents for yourself in case your baby has an accident on your clothes as well. It’s easy to remember extra clothes for your own baby, but not always for yourself. Remember that if your baby needs to be taken out – or, worst-case scenario, needs to be taken home – then know that at least you’re attending part of the festivities. Your loved ones around you can help you with your child.
Don’t roll solo – be careful and bring an adult with you. While the temptation is easy to think that you’re perfectly capable of handling stressful issues and situations on your own, take someone else who is on your side that you can tag-team with. Having another person there eases your own burden and stress. When you need to go converse with friends and family but your baby is feeling otherwise, switch off with your partner so you can get a breather. Then, when your partner is in need of aid, go relieve him or her and get that baby into your arms.
Take precautions and plan around the baby. If you’re sitting at the wedding, try to find a place near to the exit so you can dip out if necessary. If you’re eating dinner, try to feed your baby in advance so he or she will be happy throughout the wedding. If your child is tired, take along a blanket and go relax somewhere warm and quiet so your baby can get some much-needed rest.
Babies are hard work. The maintenance required to keep them happy and on top of things is challenging, and you’ll have to do a little extra work as you take your baby to a wedding. As long as you find out the specific instructions regarding babies and what type of wedding it is, you’ll have no problem at all. Just make sure you’re prepared, and as always – come with a partner who loves and supports you.
