Planning a wedding with young children can be a beautiful blend of chaos, joy, and deep, intimate moments. Grace and Nick’s wedding in Gardiner, Montana, perfectly reflected that. Their portraits, set against the backdrop of the mountains, were enhanced by the day’s ever-changing weather, allowing for a variety of breathtaking shots. From the moment their four children huddled around them in the church, it was clear that this was not just a celebration of their love but of their entire family. The children’s presence wasn’t just a feature of the day but truly the heart of it, making every moment even more meaningful.
Grace & Nick’s Intimate Wedding in Gardiner, Montana: The Joy of having Children at your Wedding
One particularly unforgettable moment occurred during Grace and Nick’s private vows when a rainbow arched over them, adding a magical element to an already emotional experience. But what made this wedding truly unique wasn’t just the family involvement or the stunning Montana landscape; it was how Grace and Nick managed to carve out meaningful time for themselves amidst the busy day. After the ceremony, they snuck away to the mountains, embracing the quiet intimacy that comes from being together.
If you’re planning to have your children involved in your wedding day, here’s how you can create a meaningful and smooth experience while balancing family participation and personal connection.
How to Enjoy Your Day with Children at Your Wedding
Grace and Nick’s wedding provided invaluable insight into how to balance family involvement with your personal love story. Whether you’re looking to incorporate your own kids or other young family members, here are a few ways to make the day both seamless and special for everyone involved
Incorporate Your Children in Meaningful Ways
There are countless ways to include children in your wedding day that go beyond having them simply attend. Just as Grace and Nick’s children huddled close during the ceremony, your children can play a special role in making the day memorable for everyone. Whether as flower girls, ring bearers, junior bridesmaids, or simply being part of key moments, let their presence be an authentic part of the day.
If your children are older, involve them in planning elements. Maybe they can help choose a part of the ceremony or suggest a fun family activity for the reception. For smaller children, incorporating small tasks, like handing out wedding programs or being part of a unity ceremony, can give them a meaningful role while keeping the experience stress-free.
Create Child-Friendly Spaces and Activities
Weddings can be long for little ones, so having kid-friendly areas or activities can help make the day enjoyable for them (and less stressful for you!). Consider creating a dedicated play area at your venue with activities like coloring books, games, or crafts. Having a ‘kids’ table’ at the reception with puzzles, snacks, and small gifts can also keep them entertained while giving parents a breather.
If you have young children, hiring a babysitter or designating a family member to oversee the kids’ activities can help ease the burden during the event. This way, your children are still a part of your special day without becoming overwhelmed by the length and busyness of the celebration.
Carve Out Time for Just the Two of You
While family is important, don’t forget to prioritize moments for just the two of you. Grace and Nick managed to sneak away after their ceremony for a quiet, intimate moment in the mountains, which allowed them to reconnect and breathe. These private pockets of time are essential for grounding yourselves throughout the chaos of the day.
Schedule moments where you can step away from the crowd, whether it’s during private vows, a sunset walk, or a brief moment after the ceremony to catch your breath. These moments allow you to savor the day and each other without distraction.
Prepare Your Kids for the Big Day
In the weeks leading up to the wedding, it’s helpful to start preparing your children for their role. This can be especially important for younger kids who may feel shy or overwhelmed. Talk to them about what the day will look like, walk them through the schedule, and let them practice any parts they’ll be involved in (like walking down the aisle or holding rings). This preparation will help them feel more confident and included on the big day.
For older children, consider letting them be part of the decision-making process when it comes to choosing their outfits or helping with the planning. Feeling involved in the preparation will give them ownership and excitement for the event.
Don’t Let Others Dictate Your Day
One of the most valuable lessons from Grace and Nick’s wedding is that they made the day their own. It’s easy to get swept up in the opinions and expectations of others, especially when it comes to family involvement. But remember, this is your day, and you have the right to shape it according to your vision. Whether that means including your children in every moment or having them sit out of certain parts, trust yourself to know what will make your day feel special.
Whether you want your kids to be deeply involved in the ceremony or have them play a quieter role, make decisions based on what feels right for your family and your celebration.
Consider the Timing and Logistics
When planning a wedding with children, it’s also important to consider the timing of events and logistics. Children can get tired, especially during long ceremonies and late-night receptions. Plan your day with their needs in mind, shorter ceremonies, early dinners, or even a special bedtime routine for younger kids who need a break. You can also plan special moments around naptime or quieter parts of the day.
If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, be mindful of the weather, and make sure there are comfortable, shaded areas for little ones. Think of the little details that will make the day more enjoyable for everyone involved, no matter their age.
A Testimonial from Grace & Nick
“We are blown away. Thank you so much for documenting our day in such a beautiful way. It’s so awesome looking through and reliving those moments. I cannot believe that rainbow!”
This intimate family wedding reminds us that no matter the size of the celebration or the number of children in tow, your wedding day can and should be a reflection of your unique love story.
Looking for a Gardiner, Montana Wedding Photographer?
Dreaming of an intimate wedding or elopement? Whether you’re planning a cozy celebration with close family or an adventurous elopement, I’m here to capture the moments that truly reflect your one of a kind love story. Take a look at my wedding portfolio here and let’s start planning the day you’ll remember forever! Reach out here, and I can’t wait to hear all about your vision and make it come to life!
Vendor Team
- Florals: Florally Bozeman
- Hair and Makeup: Tanya Crocker
SO PRETTY!! Also, their daughter getting ready is so adorable!