It's a big debate for many couples as to whether they should invite children to their weddings. If you get married in your thirties, there's a good chance a lot of your friends will have babies and toddlers in tow.

Having children at your wedding has advantages and disadvantages so it's really just a matter of personal choice. The advantages of having children there is that if you've always dreamt of pretty flower girls and dinky page boys toddling up the aisle with you, then you can have as many as you like.

The other advantage is that kids love weddings and they love dancing and there's something about having lots of little ones jumping and  twirling around on the dance floor that adds real charm to the occasion. It can also be difficult for parents to arrange childcare, especially if they do not live nearby or do not have family who see and look after their children regularly. This could mean that a no child rule prevents some friends being able to attend as they have nowhere to leave their little ones overnight.

However, by not inviting children you can save yourself money by not having to provide kids meals and some caterers will charge you to hire high chairs. You will also be able to exchange vows without any noisy children ruining your big moment and parents will have the opportunity to relax and enjoy an adult occasion without having to chase their children around and try to keep them still and quiet.

If you do invite children make sure that there is lots to keep them entertained. Provide them with activity packs during dinner full of quiet toys like bubbles, books and puzzles or try hiring a mobile creche as it can be a great way to keep kids entertained and allow parents to have some adult time.

As a Bride, you also often face a dilemma over inviting children to your Wedding as you may prefer not to have any crying or screaming ruining your precious exchange of I Dos. However you may also feel torn by wanting to see your friends little ones enjoying the day too.

There is an ideal solution that is becoming more popular. Why not set up a mobile creche in a quiet room in your venue and allow parents to bring their kids but also have some time to relax and let heir hair down. A great time to have the creche in operation is during the ceremony, drinks reception and meal. This means that the vows and speeches can take place with no interruptions and parents can enjoy drinks and canapes without having to chase toddlers around.

Local company Elf Sitters offer a service in Bristol costing around £375 for 10 children to be cared for. Prices vary depending on the number of children and the time required. Parents can also pay for evening baby sitters separately. If the cost seems high you could even ask parents to chip in as you may find they are struggling to arrange a childcare solution and may be happy to contribute.

Photo Credit Elf Sitters Mobile Creche

Words by Stephanie Allison