Hello,
I know that there are many discussions about inviting children, but I hope someone can help with more specific questions.
My son and his fiancé do not want children under 13 at the ceremony or reception. My husband and I have cousins, some with children under 13 and some over. My son (and even my husband and I) have rarely, if ever, been with the cousins' children and so we feel we are fine to only invite the parents. This is not the case for the bride's family and so there will be cousins' children over 13, who she has a close relationship with, at the wedding. Do we need to be concerned that the bride's guests will include young guests (over 13) and ours will not? Will we hurt anyone's feelings on our side? {It will be a large wedding, so it is hard to use "our numbers were limited" as an excuse}
Also, for some of these guests, the location is a trip to a tourist city. We realize not bringing the young children may present a problem for them. If they call to ask if they can bring their children, is it appropriate to say the bride and groom do not want young children at the ceremony or reception? From what I have read, it is not appropriate to put that on their wedding website. I have inquired with the hotel and the guests can arrange babysitting services. {F.Y.I., Depending on when these guests arrive, there will be gatherings (other than the ceremony and reception) which children are welcome to attend.}
I would just like to check on proper etiquette in these situations. I have asked friends and the consensus is I should just invite the parents (our cousins) and not their children. Also, they say I should not worry about the bride's side of the family.
Sorry for the long post. Your advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!