Weddings are all about love, joy, and coming together—and when you already have children in the picture, that togetherness takes on a whole new meaning. It’s not just about uniting two people, but blending families and making sure the kids feel involved in one of the most special days of your life. If you’re planning a wedding in Brisbane and you have children, there are endless ways to make them part of the celebration, ensuring they feel just as valued as the two of you. And if you’re looking for a professional wedding celebrant in Brisbane to help create a day that brings your family together, look no further
Lets explore some beautiful ideas for couples with kids, from heartfelt ceremony moments to kid-friendly wedding venues. Let’s make your wedding not just a celebration of love, but of family!
Involving your children in the ceremony
One of the most touching parts of planning a wedding when you already have children is finding ways to involve them in the ceremony. Whether your kids are toddlers or teens, having them actively participate can be a lovely symbol of your family’s unity.
Special roles for your kids
If your children are of an age where they can take on responsibilities, consider giving them roles like flower girl, page boy, or junior bridesmaid or groomsman. This is a traditional way to incorporate them, and they’ll feel proud to be by your side. Younger children can walk down the aisle holding a sign that says, “Here comes Mum/Dad,” or you can even have them be part of the ring delivery—whether in a classic role or through a more fun idea, like riding down the aisle in a cute little cart.
Family vows or promises
Adding family vows is a heartwarming way to acknowledge your children during the ceremony. After exchanging vows with your partner, you can make promises to your children too, committing to being there for them as a family. It could be as simple as saying, “I promise to always love and protect you,” or you could come up with something more personal and meaningful that reflects your relationship with them.
Unity ceremonies involving the kids
Many couples love the idea of a unity ceremony, and you can easily adapt this to involve your children. Consider a family sand-pouring ceremony, where each person has a different coloured sand, symbolising their individuality, but then pours it into a single vessel, representing the merging of your lives together. Another option is a candle-lighting ceremony, where you light candles together to represent the warmth and light your new family brings into each other’s lives.
Finding the right venue for a family wedding
Choosing the perfect wedding venue is always a big decision, but it can feel even more important when children are involved. You’ll want somewhere that’s not only beautiful but also practical for keeping kids entertained throughout the day. Luckily, Brisbane has plenty of kid-friendly wedding venues to consider.
Outdoor venues
Outdoor spaces like parks and gardens offer a relaxed and open environment where children can run around freely without disturbing the formalities of the day. Consider a Brisbane location like the Brisbane Botanic Gardens or New Farm Park—both stunning spots where kids can enjoy the day as much as the adults.
Venues with kids’ entertainment options
Some Brisbane wedding venues are already set up for families, with facilities like playgrounds or indoor play areas. Venues such as Walkabout Creek or Sirromet Winery have vast outdoor areas where kids can explore safely, while still being part of the celebration.
Creating a dedicated kids’ zone
Even if your venue doesn’t come with built-in kids’ activities, you can always create your own ‘kids’ zone’ with some clever planning. Set aside a room or outdoor area where kids can play games, colour in, or even have their own mini-movie marathon. It’s a great way to keep them entertained during the speeches or the quieter parts of the day.
The emotional side: blended families and special moments
For couples bringing together children from previous relationships, the wedding is also a significant milestone for your kids. It’s not just about two people saying “I do”; it’s about the children feeling secure in this new family dynamic.
Honouring each child’s individuality
It’s important to recognise that every child might feel differently about the wedding. Some might be excited, while others could feel uncertain or even nervous about the changes ahead. To help them feel more comfortable, consider having a private family discussion before the big day, where everyone can voice their feelings and get involved in the planning process. Maybe your kids could help choose decorations or give input on the menu—anything that makes them feel like this day is about the whole family.
Creating new traditions
Weddings are the perfect opportunity to start new family traditions. A lovely idea is to have a small gift exchange between you and your children on the day of the wedding. This could be something meaningful like a piece of jewellery with your family’s initials, a framed photograph of the three or four (or more!) of you, or a personalised book about your journey as a family.
Including children in the reception
The reception is where the fun happens, and your kids should feel just as much a part of it as you and your partner. If they’re old enough, you could even give them a brief moment on the microphone to say a few words, or encourage them to get involved in the dancing. Many couples also like the idea of having a special ‘family first dance’ alongside the couple’s first dance—just imagine how touching it would be to have your little ones join in, whether they’re holding your hands or twirling around you.
Managing the practicalities: tips for a kid-friendly day
Weddings can be long days for children, so it’s important to consider ways to keep them happy, comfortable, and entertained.
Hiring childcare
If you’re expecting a lot of children at the wedding, it might be worth hiring a professional childcare service for the event. They can provide supervision, organise games, and make sure the kids are having fun in a safe space while the adults enjoy the festivities.
Creating a kids’ menu
Many wedding venues will accommodate a special kids’ menu with favourites like pizza, chicken nuggets, or mini burgers. This can be a lifesaver if your children are fussy eaters, and it’ll keep them fuelled up for all the dancing later on!
Time out for little ones
For younger children, weddings can be overwhelming. It’s a good idea to create a quiet space where kids can take a break if they’re feeling overstimulated. A small room with pillows, soft toys, and perhaps some calming music or a film can work wonders for tired or emotional little ones.
Capturing the day: photography ideas
When you’ve got children involved in the wedding, you’ll want to make sure those special moments are captured on camera. Here are some ideas for making your wedding photography unique and family-oriented:
Family Portraits: Get creative with your family photos—whether you’re holding hands, having a tickle fight, or sharing a quiet moment together, these photos will be cherished for years to come.
Candid Moments: Sometimes the best shots aren’t planned! Ask your photographer to capture candid moments, like your child’s face when they see you walk down the aisle, or a sweet interaction during the speeches.
Action Shots: Kids love to move! Action shots of them dancing, running around, or playing games will capture their joy and excitement throughout the day.
Weddings with children are about more than just uniting two people; they’re about celebrating the bond of a family. With thoughtful planning, you can make your day feel truly special for everyone, from the youngest guests to the oldest. Whether through personalised vows, fun activities, or heartwarming family traditions, your wedding can become a day that your children will look back on as one of the happiest days of their lives.
In Brisbane, with its variety of family-friendly venues and beautiful outdoor spaces, there are so many ways to create a wedding day that truly reflects the love and unity of your family. So, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and make your celebration all about family.
As a wedding celebrant, I love helping couples create meaningful, family-focused ceremonies that celebrate the love and unity of everyone involved. If you’re ready to start planning your special day, I’d be honoured to guide you through the process—feel free to reach out!
