How to Politely Tell People your Wedding is Adults Only

We get it, not everyone wants to have kiddos at their wedding celebration. But, telling your closest friends and family isn’t always easy. That’s why we teamed up with Mango Ink, a creative studio based in the Pacific Northwest, to share various ways to break the news to your guests nicely.

Image by Mango Ink

6 Short & Sweet Statements

1. “Although we love your little ones, this is an adult only affair.”
2. “Please join us for an adult reception at six o’clock.”
3. “Please note this will be an adults-only celebration.”
4. “Adult (18 and older) reception to follow.”
5. “We respectfully request no children under 16 at the reception.”
6. “Please celebrate with us at an adults-only reception immediately following the ceremony.”

Images by Mango Ink

4 Phrases when Space is Limited

1. “Due to limited venue space, adults only please.”
2. “We have reserved [X] seats in your honor.” – add this to the RSVP card
3. “Although we love your children, we regretfully cannot accommodate them at the venue due to restricted numbers.”
4. “Although we adore your children, due to budget/space constraints we ask that only adults attend.”

5 Fun Messages to Lighten the Mood

1. “We hope you will understand our decision to make the wedding children-free, and take the opportunity to let your hair down and celebrate in style!”
2. “To allow all wedding guests, including parents, a night of relaxation and uninhibited revelry, we respectfully ask that no children attend the reception.”
3. “We love your kids but thought you might like a night off. Adults only please!”
4. “To give all our guests the opportunity to celebrate without having to worry about little eyes and ears, we politely request no children.”
5. To allow all guests to relax and enjoy themselves, we have chosen to make our special day adults only. We thank you for understanding.”

Images by Mango Ink

6 Statement For When You Are Including Nieces, Nephews, and Newborns

1. “Children of immediate family only please.”
2. “Respectfully, an adult occasion (18+). Infants under 12 months welcome. Due to limited numbers, we hope you appreciate that children are only invited if named.”
3. “Unfortunately, we are only able to accommodate children in the wedding party at our reception.”
4. “We wish we could include all children, but are unfortunately only able to invite immediate family.”
5. “Due to necessity rather than choice, it is children of immediate family only. We hope you understand and enjoy your night off!”
6. “Unfortunately due to space limitations, we are having an adults-only reception. The only children attending are those who are part of our wedding party.”

For a custom message, connect with your wedding planner or stationery designer.

You can also download our Invitation Guide for more tips on designing your wedding invitations.

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