Adults-Only Wedding Etiquette

Wedding guest list is one of the toughest parts of the wedding planning. Easy way to shorten the guest list is to make your wedding adults-only. If you have decided that your wedding will be adults-only, the best thing you can do is to be consistent and clear about the parameters. Here’s everything you should know about adults-only wedding etiquette.

Make a rule and stick to it

Decide what qualifies someone as an adult. Should they be out of college? Over 21? Once you make this rule, you have to stick to it. Make no exceptions for your younger cousin or favorite niece.

Properly address your wedding invitations

Make it clear that your wedding is adults-only. Address your wedding invitations with the exact names of those who are invited to your wedding (obviously excluding the kids). Go the extra mile and also write their exact names on the RSVP card. All they will have to do is check ‘will attend’ or ‘will not attend’. That way, it will be perfectly clear that only ‘Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Smith’ are invited.

Put it on your wedding website

Wedding website is a place to share important wedding details – both the basics and additional info you’re not supposed to put on the invitations (transportation, dress code, registry). Be sure to also include the FAQ page. Include the question ‘Can we bring our kids?’ and clearly state that the wedding is adults-only. It’s a thoughtful touch to recommend babysitting options in the area.

Spread the word

Ask the bridal party, family members and close friends to spread the word that your wedding will be adults-only.

Be direct if there is a confusion

No matter how clear you think you are about the ‘no kids’ rule, some guests won’t understand the ‘adults-only’ thing. Be polite, but firm. Explain that you can not make any exceptions.

What are your thoughts on adults-only wedding etiquette?

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